Nehemiah 6 Explained
Introduction
Nehemiah 6 continues the narrative of Nehemiah’s leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem amid opposition. This chapter focuses on the schemes of Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, who try to stop Nehemiah through deception, intimidation, and fear. Despite their efforts, Nehemiah remains steadfast in his mission, and the wall is completed. This chapter highlights themes of perseverance, discernment, and faith in God’s protection.
Verses 1-4: The Invitation to a Trap
"Now it happened when Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it (though at that time I had not hung the doors in the gates), that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, ‘Come, let us meet together among the villages in the plain of Ono.’ But they thought to do me harm." (Nehemiah 6:1-2)
Explanation:
Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, Nehemiah’s persistent enemies, realize that the wall is almost completed. In a last attempt to halt the progress, they send a deceptive invitation for Nehemiah to meet them in the plain of Ono. Their true intention is to harm him, possibly by ambushing or assassinating him.
Nehemiah, aware of their schemes, refuses their invitation four times, showing his discernment and unwavering commitment to his work.
Lessons:
Discernment is crucial – Not all invitations or opportunities are from God.
Stay focused on God’s work – Distractions can come in the form of seemingly good opportunities but may be traps.
Persistence in the face of opposition – Nehemiah refuses to be lured away from his mission.
Verses 5-9: The False Accusations
"Then Sanballat sent his servant to me as before, the fifth time, with an open letter in his hand. In it was written: ‘It is reported among the nations, and Geshem says, that you and the Jews plan to rebel; therefore, according to these rumors, you are rebuilding the wall, that you may be their king.’" (Nehemiah 6:5-6)
Explanation:
After failing to lure Nehemiah away, Sanballat resorts to spreading false rumors. He accuses Nehemiah of planning a rebellion against King Artaxerxes, implying that Nehemiah wants to set himself up as king. Since the letter is “open,” it suggests that Sanballat wants as many people as possible to see and spread the rumor.
Nehemiah denies the accusation and prays for strength instead of being discouraged.
Lessons:
Expect opposition when doing God’s work – Lies and slander are common tactics of the enemy.
Do not be discouraged by false accusations – Stay committed to truth and trust God.
Prayer strengthens us – Nehemiah prays, "Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands." (Nehemiah 6:9)
Verses 10-14: The Attempt to Intimidate Nehemiah
"Afterward I came to the house of Shemaiah... who was a secret informer; and he said, ‘Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us close the doors of the temple, for they are coming to kill you.’" (Nehemiah 6:10)
Explanation:
Another enemy, Shemaiah, pretends to be Nehemiah’s ally and urges him to hide in the temple, claiming that assassins are coming to kill him. However, Nehemiah realizes that Shemaiah is a false prophet hired by Tobiah and Sanballat. If Nehemiah had hidden in the temple, it would have been seen as cowardice or an abuse of the temple’s sanctity, ruining his credibility as a leader.
Nehemiah refuses and prays against the conspirators.
Lessons:
Be wary of false counsel – Not everyone who appears to be on your side is trustworthy.
Faith over fear – Nehemiah does not act out of fear but trusts God.
Integrity is key – Leaders must not compromise their moral standing.
Verses 15-16: Completion of the Wall
"So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of Elul, in fifty-two days. And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, that they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God." (Nehemiah 6:15-16)
Explanation:
Despite opposition, the wall is completed in just 52 days, an incredible feat that even Nehemiah’s enemies recognize as the work of God. The completion of the wall symbolizes the restoration of Jerusalem’s security and the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises.
Lessons:
God enables success – Even against great opposition, God’s work prevails.
Perseverance leads to victory – Nehemiah did not give up despite challenges.
God’s power is evident – The success of the wall caused even the enemies to acknowledge God’s hand in it.
Verses 17-19: Continued Opposition
"Also in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobiah, and the letters of Tobiah came to them. For many in Judah were pledged to him..." (Nehemiah 6:17-18)
Explanation:
Even after the wall is completed, opposition does not stop. Some nobles of Judah have ties to Tobiah and continue to communicate with him, keeping him informed. This reveals that internal opposition can sometimes be as dangerous as external threats.
Lessons:
Opposition does not always end with success – Even after the wall is built, enemies persist.
Beware of compromised alliances – Some of the nobles were more loyal to Tobiah than to God’s mission.
Spiritual vigilance is necessary – Success does not mean we can lower our guard.
Conclusion
Nehemiah 6 teaches invaluable lessons about perseverance, faith, and leadership in the face of opposition. The completion of the wall is a testament to Nehemiah’s unwavering focus, strategic wisdom, and reliance on God. His response to threats—through prayer, discernment, and action—serves as a model for all who seek to accomplish God’s work despite opposition.
Key Takeaways:
Stay focused on God’s mission – Do not be distracted by opposition or false accusations.
Discern deception – Not every invitation or offer is from God.
Trust in prayer – Nehemiah’s constant prayers show the importance of seeking God’s strength.
Success brings opposition – Even after victory, vigilance is necessary.
Ultimately, Nehemiah’s story reminds us that when we commit to God’s work, He will strengthen us to complete it, no matter the obstacles. "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me." (Psalm 28:7)
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