Monday, April 7 – Nehemiah 3, 4 – Additional Reading, Prophets and Kings, Chapter 53, “The Builders on the Wall”

1. How did they organize themselves to complete the wall reconstruction? (Nehemiah 3)

2. How did the enemies of God’s people react? (Nehemiah 4:1-3)

3. What did they plot when they saw the work continue, and how did the people respond? (Nehemiah 4:8, 9)

4. How did they have to build? (Nehemiah 4:17)

Nehemiah had an important responsibility in the Persian king’s court. God placed him there for this exact moment. He convinced the king to allow the work to continue and was appointed governor of Jerusalem. He led the construction with courage, wisdom, and efficiency and defended it from the enemies.

“Aside from Esther, Ezra and Nehemiah are the only historical books of the postexilic period, and are of great importance for a reconstruction of the history of postexilic Jewry.” (SDA Bible Commentary, Introduction to the Book of Ezra, Historical Setting)

Regarding Nehemiah 3, the Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary states:

“The special purpose of this chapter seems to be the rendering of honor where honor was due—the placing on record of the names of the men who nobly came to the front on this important occasion, sacrificed ease to duty, and thereby exposed themselves to a threatened hostile attack (ch. 4:18–20).” (SDA Bible Commentary, Nehemiah 3:1)

Not only builders worked on the project, but also priests, goldsmiths, perfumers, government officials, merchants, and even young women (Nehemiah 3:1-16). The Levites repaired the section near the high priest’s house (verses 17-21). Priests and others who lived in Jerusalem were generally assigned sections of the wall closest to their homes, while people from other areas built the remaining sections (verses 22-32).

This is a beautiful and worthy example to follow. It is God’s plan that we unite in His work, especially when there is a specific need or project, whether it is an evangelistic campaign or a Vacation Bible School. There is a place for everyone in God’s work; no one should be disconnected from it or inactive. We learn here that we must work in coordination, all following the leaders of the work rather than working independently.

Regarding the construction of the wall, Ellen G. White writes:

“Nor did Nehemiah’s energy abate, now that the work was actually begun. With tireless vigilance he superintended the building, directing the workmen, noting the hindrances, and providing for emergencies. Along the whole extent of that three miles of wall his influence was constantly felt. With timely words he encouraged the fearful, aroused the laggard, and approved the diligent. And ever he watched the movements of their enemies, who from time to time collected at a distance and engaged in conversation, as if plotting mischief, and then, drawing nearer the workmen, attempted to divert their attention.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 639)

Chapter 4 describes the challenges they faced. Beyond the difficulties of the work itself, the enemy made the task even harder. Behind the human opposition was the adversary, Satan. They were caught amid the great controversy; the enemy did not want the temple or the city to be rebuilt.

There was opposition both from outside and from within. They had to endure ridicule, threats, and danger, as well as criticism from Jews who were not participating in the work.

““The Jews which dwelt by,” those who were taking no part in the work, gathered up the statements and reports of their enemies and used these to weaken courage and create disaffection.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 474)

The work progressed with sacrifice and great effort. However, this trial turned out to be a hidden blessing because it led them to depend on God and unite as a people in the task.

The church today is also in the midst of great controversy and is a target of constant attacks from the enemy. God’s workers must unite and support one another. They should not allow ridicule, criticism, or threats, whether external or internal, to discourage them. Like Nehemiah and his people, we are called to pray, watch, and work.

Seeing church members active, collaborating, and working enthusiastically on a project is wonderful. Solomon, inspired by the Holy Spirit, describes the church as an army ready for action: “Who is she who looks forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, awesome as an army with banners?” (Song of Solomon 6:10)

I pray that you hear God’s call to action, find your place in the work, and join those who persevere with enthusiasm.

May God bless you and your loved ones today.