Nehemiah

Ezra and Nehemiah are meant to be taken together as a single narrative, and in ancient times the two books were counted as one. The purpose of these books is to highlight the many ways God was working to restore the Israelites to their land after exile in Babylon. While Ezra focuses on the restoration of the temple and the community, Nehemiah focuses on the restoration of Jerusalem and the covenant.

Nehemiah begins with the importance of rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, and how the wall is built despite the opposition that arises. The book is very concerned with the inextricable link of the material and the spiritual, and the themes of Nehemiah center around the Lord working providentially through powerful rulers, his protection and hearing the prayers of his people, and his mercy and faithfulness despite his people’s sinfulness. At the same time, God’s people need to be on their guard against their own moral weaknesses, and worship is to be the center of their lives, which includes a joyful willingness to give of their resources. Listen as John continues to unpack this important narrative that still speaks to us today.