Nehemiah 6

In this chapter, Nehemiah faces intensified opposition, including an assassination attempt and misinformation campaign. Like Jesus, he responds with prayer, resistance, and persistence, completing the city walls despite challenges. New Testament passages highlight spiritual warfare and resisting temptation. Discussion questions prompt reflection on seeking God's strength and faithful persistence in adversity.

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This chapter records a second, intensified episode of opposition to the rebuilding effort. In this case it is directed more personally at Nehemiah. There appears to be an increased risk of physical harm and shaming for Nehemiah.

Three specific tactics utilized by Nehemiah’s enemies:

1. Assassination Attempt - They try to lure him to a remote area where they can do harm

to him.

2. A Misinformation Campaign - They send a public letter falsely accusing Nehemiah of

planning a revolt against the king of Persia.

3. Temptation to Compromise His Integrity - They pay a guy to request Nehemiah to meet

him within the temple, which Nehemiah indicates would be sinful for him to do.

As he had done before, he prayed for God to strengthen him.

Jesus similarly faced three specific temptations in the wilderness and succeeded in all three.

In this section we can see a model of response to opposition: pray, resist, and persist. Nehemiah prays for strength. He resists the temptations to pull him away from the work of rebuilding the walls. And he persists in doing the work. We can pray.

Simply continuing to do the work God has given us is a strategy unto itself in the face of opposition.

The chapter ends on a high note. After 52 days of work, the city walls were finished.

New Testament Scriptures to read:

● Ephesians 6:12

● 1 Peter 5:8

● 1 Timothy 4:1-5

● Luke 5:15-16

● James 4:7

Questions for Discussion/Reflection:

○ What are some things you could pray about right now to ask for God’s strength to endure?

○ What would it look like for you to “resist the devil” in your current situation?

○ What work does God have for you that simply persisting in doing would be an expression of faithfulness in the face of opposition?

   

Session 06

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