The Basics: A Brief Overview of Nehemiah
The Basics course is designed to help brothers and sisters in Christ, who have a desire for a brief study over each of the books of the Bible. While being more than just a timeline, it is designed to give a person a more realistic overview of the entire Bible. As well as pointing out different highlights along the way. Imagine riding in a car and seeing exit signs for a town. Each sign gives a brief glimpse of what is inside, while if you wanted to thoroughly investigate the town you would have to take the exit. This series is a collected work of the books of the Bible while continuing to drive past each of the exits. I would encourage you to take any exit and allow the Lord God to direct your path to where He would guide.
The Bible is written into 66 different books. Each one unique on its own but designed to be with its other collected works.
Cautionary Note: This work is not to argue for the authenticity of the Bible nor is it to argue over the mechanics of how God used man to write His Words. This is designed as an overview for someone to review the book in passing. Nevertheless, we here at Mill House Ministries believe that the Bible is without error and was written by God, through His divine attributes, through man.
These overviews are sequenced in the below fashion. Each overview is designed to flow in unison.
Introduction
Who wrote it
When did they write it
Key topics
Key sections
Books that interact with each other
Analysis of the Book
As previously stated, if you find yourself drawn to one of these books, please take the time and see what God is wanting to show you in that book.
BASICS COURSE:
Nehemiah
INTRODUCTION:
“To tell the truth, he felt a bit sore. First there had been the long tip across the desert. Then, during the previous night, he had identified around the area. Unusual activity for a professional politician. Now, in the light of the rising sun, he could fully view the ruins. What he saw was not encouraging, to say the least. Enemy soldiers and the revenges of time had utterly devastated all that had once stood tall and strong in the beloved city. He realized God called different men to different tasks. Moses was commissioned to lead, David to rule, and men like Amos to form. But his assignment was unique. Dismounting somewhat stiffly from his horse, the rider entered a room filled with men he had personally summoned. The rider was Nehemiah, the city was Jerusalem, the ruins were its walls, and the assembled men were key Jewish leaders. But what was the reason for all of this? In the words of Nehemiah himself, ‘Nehemiah 2:18 And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work.’”[1] Imagine, it had been 70 years and finally the Jewish people were returning to their home. Persia, the world superpower of its time, was supporting not only the return of the Jewish people but the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple to the LORD. God had called unique men to the greatest calling a person could find themselves in, God’s calling.
WHO WROTE IT:
The author is thought to be Nehemiah based on the characteristics of the book and what the author focused on. Nehemiah, who was a businessman, focuses less on the Temple and religious side of the return then Ezra, who was a priest, wrote about. Nehemiah focuses more on the political and economic return of the people.
WHEN DID THEY WRITE IT:
Biblical scholars like John MacArthur attempt to detail the writing of Nehemiah in the late year 446 B.C., the 20th year of the Persian king, Artaxerxes (464–423 B.C.).[2]
KEY TOPICS:
The book of Nehemiah shows the reader several topics. Including, society, government, religion, prophecy, Prophets, man, woman, children, family issues, promises, war, God, love, and finally preparation for the stage of Jesus Christ.
KEY SECTIONS:
Chapters 1-2 depict Nehemiah’s grief and God’s answer. Chapter 3 describes the rebuilding of the walls. Chapters 4-6 show Political, religious, and construction issues. Chapter 7 details the census of those who had returned. Chapters 8-13 is the revival and reform of the Jewish nation.
BOOKS THAT INTERACT WITH EACH OTHER:
The book of Nehemiah is closely connected to the book of Ezra. However, because of Nehemiah the entire New Testament could be written. Ultimately, this book is about the restoration of Israel to the land and preparation for the arrival of the King of Kings.
ANALYSIS OF THE BOOK:
Nehemiah is not the longest book, but neither is it the shortest. At times it is missed by everyone, except historians who desire to review the intricate details of how the nation of Israel has lived over the thousands of years. However, do not let this fool you, Nehemiah is a book that can radically change a Christian’s life today if taken seriously. Nehemiah shows believers two things, first that if the Word of God is taken seriously and we hold Jesus to His promises we can be rest assured He will answer. Second, this book goes beyond the historical value and answers the spiritual and practical truth many believers fail to recognize. God can transform the lives of anyone no matter where we have been. No matter where you were before, God can change you, no matter what you had done before, God can heal you, no matter the evil that has come upon you or done by you, God is merciful and just to forgive you of your sins and restore you. Nehemiah is a declaration of what God can do in your life today, all we need is to take His Word seriously, seek Him, and have the faith to know that He is in control.
Hold until relieved our Blessed Hope is coming,
JL
[1] Survey of the Old Testament An Overview of the scriptures from creation to Christ Harold L. Willmington Pg 584
[2] https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/macarthur_john/bible-introductions/nehemiah-intro.cfm