Book of Nehemiah

Author: The Book of Nehemiah does not specifically name its author. It is highly likely that either Nehemiah or Ezra was the author.

Date of Writing: The Book of Nehemiah was likely written between 445 and 420 B.C.

Purpose of Writing: Nehemiah was a Hebrew in Persia when the word reached him that the Temple was being reconstructed. He grew anxious knowing there was no wall to protect the city. Nehemiah invited God to use him to save the city. God answered his prayer by softening the heart of the Persian king. Artaxerxes gave not only his blessing, but also supplies to be used in the project. Through opposition and accusations the wall was built and the enemy silenced. The people rejoiced and Nehemiah went back to Persia. After 12 years he returned to find the walls strong but the people weak. He set about the task of teaching the people morality and he didn't mince words. "I argued with those people, put curses on them, hit some of them and pulled out their hair" (13:25).

Key Verses: Nehemiah 1:3, "They said to me, 'Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.'"

Nehemiah 1:11, "O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man."

Nehemiah 6:15-16, "So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days. When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God."

Brief Summary: Nehemiah is given permission by the king of Persia to return to Jerusalem, where he rebuilds the walls of the city and is made governor. The people, inspired by Nehemiah, give tithes of much money, supplies and manpower to complete the wall in a remarkable 52 days, despite much opposition. This united effort is short-lived, however, because Jerusalem falls back into apostasy when Nehemiah leaves for a while. But he then returns to reestablish true worship through prayer and by encouraging the people to revival by reading and adhering the Word of God.

Practical Application: Each of us ought to have genuine compassion for others who have spiritual or physical hurts. To feel compassion, yet, do nothing to help, is unfounded Biblically. At times we may have to give up our own comfort in order to minister properly to others. We must totally believe in a cause before we will give our time or money to it with the right heart. When we allow God to minister through us, even unbelievers will know it is God's work.

Recommended Resources: Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther: Holman Old Testament Commentary by Knute Larson.
Ezra and Nehemiah, New International Commentary on the Old Testament by F. Charles Fensham.

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Book of Nehemiah