Nehemiah 1

Nehemiah 1:1

I. NEHEMIAH’S FIRST VISIT: RESTORATION OF JERUSALEM (Chaps. 112) A. Consternation over Jerusalem’s Condition (Chap. 1)1:1-3 Little is given by way of introduction in this first chapter. We are told only two things about Nehemiah: his father’s name was Hachaliah and he himself was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, a very influential position. His reaction to the news concerning Jerusalem shows that he was a man of spiritual character. Motyer comments: It is rather an uncertain time of history, but it seems very likely that some of the enthusiasm engendered by the mission of Ezra took a political or nationalistic direction; enthusiasm was so roused that it began to flow out into an unauthorized rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Some of the enemies of God’s people in the area reported this matter back to . . . Artaxerxes, and he commanded that the building work should cease. The enemies of God capitalized on this by going up to Jerusalem with the royal mandate in their hands, causing the work to cease, and tearing down the city walls. It is very likely that it was the news of this action which came to Nehemiah. 1:4-11 Nehemiah had a burden for the remnant in Judah. Even though he had not experienced their hardships, he identified with them, denying himself the luxuries of the palace in order to fast, mourn, and pray. He confessed their sins as his own and asked God to remember His Word and to be faithful in regathering His people as He had been righteous in scattering them. He also asked the Lord to grant him favor in the sight of the king, for a bold plan to aid his brethren was taking shape in his mind. For days he pleaded his case before the Most High. Nehemiah is often used as an example of effective leadership. First, he had a vision of a goal to be achieved. After analyzing the problem, he decided on a proper course of action. Then he motivated others to share his vision and to become actively involved. Next we see him delegating authority and assigning tasks. He supervised the work and checked on performance until the project was satisfactorily completed.