Nehemiah's Example

The Book of Nehemiah offers a profound narrative that intertwines history, theology, and leadership, illustrating how one man’s commitment to God’s cause can restore and renew a devastated nation. Nehemiah, a man of significant influence in the Persian Empire, was deeply moved by the news of Jerusalem’s broken walls and the distress of its people. His actions, rooted in prayer and a deep sense of responsibility, not only addressed the physical rebuilding of the city but also initiated a spiritual revival among the Jewish people. This blog post examines Nehemiah’s response to Jerusalem’s condition as described in Nehemiah 1, and explores its theological implications, particularly the role of leadership in the restoration of Jerusalem.

The Context of Nehemiah’s Concern

The Historical Background

Approximately one thousand years after the time of Moses and about four hundred years before the birth of Jesus, the nation of Israel was in a desperate state. The Jewish people had experienced a series of devastating events that left their land and their identity in shambles. The Assyrians had destroyed the northern kingdom of Israel, and the Babylonians later conquered the southern kingdom of Judah. The city of Jerusalem, once the glory of Israel, was completely overrun, and Solomon’s temple, the pinnacle of Jewish worship, was reduced to ruins.

The Babylonian conquest resulted in the deportation of most of the Jewish population. Jerusalem was largely uninhabited for seventy years, a ghost town with little to no hope of revival. This period of desolation could have easily consigned Jerusalem to the annals of forgotten history, much like many other ancient cities that had once thrived but were ultimately abandoned.

The Jewish People in Exile

During the Babylonian captivity, the Jewish people began to establish lives for themselves in a foreign land. They settled in Babylon, and while many continued to worship the God of their fathers, they did so from afar, with little desire to return to the Promised Land. Despite the captivity, some Jews rose to prominence in the Babylonian and later Persian governments. Figures such as Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego became influential leaders in Babylon, while Esther ascended to the position of queen in the Persian court.

However, after seventy years of exile, the Jews were given the opportunity to return to their homeland. However, out of the two to three million Jews living in exile, only about 50,000 chose to return—a mere two percent of the population. These returning exiles, led by figures like Zerubbabel and later Ezra, began rebuilding Jerusalem. They restored the temple, laying a spiritual foundation for Israel once again.

Nehemiah’s Response to the News of Jerusalem’s Condition

Nehemiah Hears of Jerusalem’s Crisis (Nehemiah 1:1-3)

The Book of Nehemiah begins fifteen years after the events described in the Book of Ezra, nearly one hundred years after the first group of captives returned to the Promised Land, and approximately one hundred and fifty years after Jerusalem’s destruction. Despite the passage of time, the city’s walls remained in ruins, a testament to the failure of previous efforts to restore the city’s defenses.

Nehemiah, the cupbearer to the king of Persia, was residing in Shushan, the capital city. His position was one of great importance, as the cupbearer was responsible for serving the king and protecting him from potential poisoning. Despite his comfortable and prestigious life in the Persian court, Nehemiah’s heart was burdened for his people and his homeland.

When Hanani, one of Nehemiah’s brothers, arrived from Judah, Nehemiah eagerly inquired about the condition of the Jewish remnant and the city of Jerusalem. The news was disheartening: “The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire” (Nehemiah 1:3, ESV). This report painted a grim picture of a city and a people in dire straits living in constant fear and disgrace.

The Significance of Jerusalem’s Walls

The broken walls of Jerusalem were more than just a physical problem; they symbolized the vulnerability and disgrace of the Jewish people. In the ancient world, a city without walls was defenseless, exposed to the whims of enemies, and unable to protect its inhabitants. Such a city was considered insignificant, a backwater town with nothing of value, because anything of worth could be easily plundered. The people living in such a city would have been under constant stress and fear, with no assurance of safety for themselves or their families.

The state of Jerusalem’s walls was not just a physical issue; it was a reflection of the spiritual and emotional state of its people. Despite the temple's reconstruction, it could not regain its former glory as the city remained vulnerable, and its inhabitants lived in constant fear. The physical ruin of the walls mirrored the nation’s internal distress.

Nehemiah’s Immediate Reaction

A Heart of Compassion (Nehemiah 1:4)

Upon learning about the dire situation in Jerusalem, Nehemiah’s response was immediate and profound. He writes, “As soon as I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven” (Nehemiah 1:4, ESV). Nehemiah’s reaction was not a fleeting emotion, but a deep-seated burden that led him to extended mourning, fasting, and prayer. His compassion was not just a personal feeling, but a reflection of God's heart for His people, and a catalyst for the restoration of Jerusalem.

Nehemiah’s reaction demonstrates the kind of compassion that is often the catalyst for God’s work through His people. God needed to work in him before Nehemiah could become Jerusalem’s restoration instrument. This transformation began with a broken heart that wept over the condition of God’s people and God’s city. Nehemiah’s concern for Jerusalem was not just a personal passion but a reflection of God’s heart for His people.

The Importance of Prayer and Fasting

Nehemiah’s response to the crisis in Jerusalem was deeply rooted in prayer and fasting. His actions exemplify the Biblical principle that any great work of God begins with prayer. Before taking any steps to address Jerusalem’s physical needs, Nehemiah sought God’s face. This period of prayer and fasting was not a mere formality; it was the foundation upon which the entire project of rebuilding Jerusalem would rest, demonstrating the power of these spiritual practices in guiding and empowering Nehemiah's mission.

Nehemiah’s prayer was not just about seeking God’s help but also an expression of his dependence on God. He understood that his efforts would be in vain without God’s intervention. This dependence is further emphasized in the humility with which Nehemiah approached God. He recognized God’s greatness and his need for divine guidance and strength.

Nehemiah’s Prayer of Confession and Petition

Acknowledging God’s Covenant (Nehemiah 1:5)

Nehemiah’s prayer begins by acknowledging God’s greatness and faithfulness: “O LORD God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments” (Nehemiah 1:5, ESV). By starting his prayer in this way, Nehemiah praises God and reminds himself of God’s covenant promises. He appeals to God’s character as the covenant-keeping God, whose love and mercy are steadfast.

This aspect of Nehemiah’s prayer is crucial because it sets the tone for what follows. Nehemiah is about to ask God to intervene in a seemingly impossible situation, and he does so by first reminding God of His covenant with Israel. It reflects a deep understanding of God’s nature and His commitment to His people.

Confession of Sin (Nehemiah 1:6-7)

Nehemiah’s prayer also includes a heartfelt confession of sin: “Let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned” (Nehemiah 1:6, ESV). Nehemiah does not distance himself from the nation’s sins; instead, he identifies with the people, confessing their sins and his own.

This corporate confession is significant because it acknowledges that Jerusalem’s current state results from the nation’s unfaithfulness to God. Nehemiah recognizes that Jerusalem’s problems are not just political or military issues; they are spiritual in nature. The broken walls are a physical manifestation of the broken covenant between God and His people.

Petition for Restoration (Nehemiah 1:8-10)

After confessing the sins of Israel, Nehemiah appeals to God’s promises: “Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples, but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of heaven, from there I will gather them and bring them to the place that I have chosen, to make my name dwell there’” (Nehemiah 1:8-9, ESV). Nehemiah’s petition is based on God’s covenant promises, as recorded in the Books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy. He reminds God of His promise to restore Israel if they repent and return to Him.

Nehemiah’s prayer reveals his deep understanding of God’s Word and his reliance on God’s faithfulness. He does not ask God to act based on the people’s merits but on God’s promises. Highlighting a crucial theological point: God’s faithfulness to His covenant is the foundation of Israel’s hope for restoration.

A Prayer for Favor (Nehemiah 1:11)

Nehemiah concludes his prayer with a request for success: “O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man” (Nehemiah 1:11, ESV). Nehemiah is preparing to take a bold step—approaching the king of Persia with a request to go to Jerusalem and rebuild the walls. He understands that without God’s favor, his efforts will fail.

This final petition reflects Nehemiah’s complete dependence on God. He recognizes that true success comes not from human effort alone but from God’s blessing and guidance. Nehemiah’s prayer is a model of how believers should approach God in times of need: with humility, confession, reliance on God’s promises, and a request for divine favor.

Nehemiah’s fervent prayers for his people foreshadow the ultimate intercessor, Jesus Christ, whose high priestly prayer in John 17 reveals a similar depth of love and concern for God’s people. This essay will explore the parallels between Nehemiah’s and Jesus’ intercessory prayers and their practical implications for contemporary Christians.

Nehemiah and Jesus: Men of Prayer

Nehemiah’s story begins with a poignant confession of his people’s sins and a heartfelt plea for God’s mercy (Nehemiah 1:5-11). His prayer is marked by humility, urgency, and a deep love for his people. This pattern is echoed in Jesus’ high-priestly prayer, where he selflessly intercedes for his disciples and all believers (John 17). Both men demonstrate a profound understanding of the spiritual needs of their people and a passionate desire to see them restored to their relationship with God, inspiring us to follow their selfless example.

Theological Implications

The parallel between Nehemiah and Jesus’ intercessory prayers has significant theological implications. First, it underscores the importance of intercessory prayer in the Christian life. Both Nehemiah and Jesus demonstrate that prayer is not merely a personal act but a powerful means of influencing the course of history, as seen in Jerusalem’s restoration and the Church’s establishment. Second, it highlights the centrality of God’s people in the divine plan. Both men are deeply concerned for the spiritual well-being of their people and are willing to sacrifice their own comfort and safety for their sake.

The Role of Leadership in God’s Redemptive Plan

Nehemiah’s response to the crisis in Jerusalem underscores the importance of godly leadership in fulfilling God’s redemptive purposes. Nehemiah was not a prophet or a priest but a layman serving in a secular position. Nevertheless, God used him in a mighty way to bring about Jerusalem’s physical and spiritual restoration.

God’s use of Nehemiah highlights a key theological principle: God often raises up leaders from unexpected places to accomplish His purposes. Nehemiah’s story is a testament to how God can use individuals in positions of influence, even in secular settings, to advance His kingdom. His leadership was characterized by prayer, dependence on God, and a deep concern for the welfare of God’s people.

The Interplay Between Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility

The Book of Nehemiah also illustrates the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Nehemiah’s actions were not in opposition to God’s sovereignty; rather, they were a response to it. Nehemiah understood that while God is sovereign and His plans will ultimately prevail, He often chooses to work through human agents who are willing to step out in faith and obedience.

This balance between divine sovereignty and human responsibility is a recurring theme in Scripture. While God can accomplish His purposes without human intervention, He often invites His people to participate in His work. Nehemiah’s story is a powerful example of how God’s sovereign plans are fulfilled through the faithful actions of His servants.

The Power of Prayer and Fasting

Nehemiah’s response to the crisis in Jerusalem underscores the power of prayer and fasting in seeking God’s intervention. His decision to mourn, fast, and pray for several days before taking any action demonstrates the importance of spiritual preparation in confronting challenges. Nehemiah’s reliance on prayer reveals his belief that true success comes from God’s hand, not from human effort alone.

From an evangelical perspective, Nehemiah’s prayer life is a model for believers today. It emphasizes the necessity of aligning one’s heart with God’s will before undertaking any significant endeavor. Nehemiah’s story challenges believers to prioritize prayer and seek God’s guidance in all aspects of life, trusting that He will provide the wisdom and strength needed to overcome obstacles.

The Centrality of Covenant in God’s Relationship with His People

Finally, Nehemiah’s appeal to God’s covenant promises highlights the centrality of covenant in God’s relationship with His people. Nehemiah’s confidence in approaching God was rooted in his understanding of the covenant God made with Israel. He knew that God’s covenant love remained steadfast despite Israel’s unfaithfulness.

This focus on covenant is a key theological theme throughout Scripture. God’s dealings with His people are always framed within the context of covenant, whether it is the Abrahamic covenant, the Mosaic covenant, or the new covenant established through Jesus Christ. Nehemiah’s story reminds believers that God’s faithfulness to His covenant is the foundation of their relationship with Him.

Practical Applications

The story of Nehemiah provides valuable lessons for contemporary Christians. First, it emphasizes the importance of Scripture in the Christian life, a cornerstone of our faith that keeps us grounded and secure. 

Nehemiah’s leadership is rooted in his love for God’s Word and his commitment to teaching it to his people (Nehemiah 8). Similarly, Christians today must prioritize Scripture as the foundation of their faith and the means of spiritual growth, treating it with reverence. Second, it calls us to cultivate a spirit of compassion and service towards others. Nehemiah’s deep concern for his people leads him to sacrifice his comfort and security to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the community. Christians are called to follow his example by serving those in need and seeking to promote the kingdom of God.

Conclusion

The parallel between Nehemiah’s and Jesus’ intercessory prayers is a powerful reminder of the importance of prayer, compassion, and Scripture in the Christian life. As we study Nehemiah, we are challenged to deepen our prayer lives, love our neighbors as ourselves, and treasure the Word of God. By following the example of Nehemiah and Jesus, we can experience the transformative power of God’s grace, a beacon of hope that encourages us to contribute to the ongoing renewal of the Church.

Nehemiah’s response to the crisis in Jerusalem is a powerful example of how one individual’s faith, prayer, and leadership can bring about significant change in the lives of God’s people. His story is a testament to the importance of aligning one’s heart with God’s purposes, seeking His guidance through prayer, and stepping out in faith to fulfill His will. From an evangelical perspective, Nehemiah’s actions are a model for believers today, challenging them to trust in God’s faithfulness, embrace their responsibility to act in accordance with His will and rely on the power of prayer in all endeavors. Through Nehemiah, we see how God’s covenant faithfulness is the bedrock of His relationship with His people and the foundation for their hope and restoration.