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May 19, 2025

Bible Survey: Nehemiah

by Jason Neill

Scripture reading: Nehemiah 6 & 9

Nehemiah was a man living in comfort and prestige as the cupbearer to the king. This position was more than simply tasting food and drink to detect poison; it signified deep trust and access to the king’s inner circle. As such, Nehemiah likely served not only as a protector but also as a valued adviser. It was not uncommon for someone in his position to be consulted on matters of significance.

At the same time, Nehemiah was far removed from Jerusalem, both physically and emotionally insulated from the city’s hardships. This distance is important, as Jerusalem was in ruins at the time. Upon receiving a visit from his brother who had returned from Jerusalem, Nehemiah asked about the condition of the city. The report he received deeply distressed him. His immediate response was to pray (see Nehemiah 1:4–11).

Nehemiah’s sorrow did not go unnoticed. The king observed his emotional state and asked what was troubling him. Before responding, Nehemiah prayed again, then shared the news of Jerusalem’s devastation, the broken walls and vulnerability of the city. In ancient times, a city without walls was exposed to constant danger and attack.

What stands out about Nehemiah’s character is his deep compassion. Though he lived in luxury within the royal palace, he was profoundly moved by the suffering of his fellow Jews in Jerusalem. His concern compelled him to act on their behalf. Despite facing significant obstacles, Nehemiah and his team of workers were able to rebuild the city walls in just 52 days (see Nehemiah 6:15-16).

Authorship and Date: The Book of Nehemiah was written by Nehemiah himself, as indicated by its use of the first-person narrative (see Nehemiah 1:1). However, some scholars believe Ezra may have contributed to its compilation, possibly incorporating Nehemiah’s memoirs along with his own additions. The book was likely written between 430 and 420 B.C.

Jesus in Nehemiah: In Nehemiah 9, the people of Israel gather in a profound act of communal repentance. After hearing the Book of the Law read aloud, they respond with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes, symbols of humility and sorrow for sin. Their prayer, one of the longest in the Bible, recounts God's faithfulness throughout Israel’s history: His covenant with Abraham, deliverance from Egypt, provision in the wilderness, and the giving of the Law at Sinai. Despite God’s ongoing mercy, the people repeatedly fall into disobedience. Yet God continues to forgive, showing compassion and patience. This prayer is not only a confession of sin but a renewed recognition of God's steadfast love. It marks a turning point in the people’s return from exile, as they reaffirm their covenant identity and commit to walking in obedience.

This scene of covenant renewal highlights a crucial theological tension that finds its resolution in Jesus. Although the people are sincere in their repentance, their history, and the chapters that follow, make clear that even their best intentions cannot sustain long-term faithfulness. The cycle of sin and restoration continues. This reveals the need for a deeper, more permanent solution, a transformed heart, not just external obedience. Jesus provides that solution. In Him, the covenant story reaches its fulfillment. He offers a new covenant, sealed with His own blood (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Luke 22:20), which brings lasting forgiveness and eternal life (John 3:16; 5:24; 6:47; 11:25-26; Romans 6:23). Where Nehemiah led the people in acknowledging their failure to keep God’s law, Jesus perfectly fulfills it.

Application: This book of Scripture highlights the importance of both prayer and planning. We shouldn't assume that being spiritual means only praying about a matter and doing nothing more. When God calls us to make a difference, whatever the capacity, we must pray, seek godly wisdom, make a thoughtful plan, and then act. Making a positive impact for the sake of the gospel of Jesus requires both faith and intentional effort.