Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah investigated the city walls and found that they were indeed lying in rubble. After conversing with local leadership in the Israelite community, the building project begins!
Like in times past in the history of Israel, the rebuilding effort illustrates God’s design for a collaborative community. As in the case of the initial construction of the tabernacle, individuals were named and given specific tasks on the project. This is a microcosm of how the Israelite community worked as a whole with various roles within the community. For example, all priests came from the tribe of Levi.
A number of unlikely construction workers are identified:
● Eliahshib, the high priest
● Hananiah, the perfume maker
● Shallum and his daughters
● Hanun and residents of Zanoah
● Men of Tekoa
These people were likely not typically involved in masonry, but the needs of the community and the empowering work of God through his people enabled the project to move forward.
New Testament Scriptures to read:
● 1 Corinthians 3
● 1 Corinthians 12
In the body of Christ, the church, there are many roles and functions. Like a natural body, all the parts contribute and are important to the whole.
Questions for Discussion/Reflection:
○ What are some ways that you enjoy contributing to the community of the people of God?
○ When or how have you noticed that God was enabling you to serve in a way that was difficult for you?
○ What are some ways God might be calling and equipping you for future service?
