As we move forward on our quest through the book of Nehemiah, we will
learn together about his many gifts, his heart for our Lord, and the leadership
that evolved within him to bring about miraculous change and the return to
faithfulness in Jerusalem and beyond. Most of this book is taken from Nehemiah’s own memoirs, so
the insight is personal, and the account, very real.
Some background information is important at this time:
Nehemiah was serving as a royal official in the court of
King Artaxerxes in Susas, the capital of the Persian Empire. He was a cupbearer
to the King, which is a considerable responsibility, as he tasted the king’s
food and wine before serving them to him. While serving the king, Nehemiah got word
that though thousands of Jewish exiles returned to Judea, Jerusalem’s wall was
still in ruins and the city remained exposed to danger. Nehemiah’s response to
this information is the subject of the book of Nehemiah.
You will also hear of Ezra throughout the book of Nehemiah.
He was a priest and teacher of the law, with a humble heart for the Lord. He
led many Jewish exiles back to Israel. The books of Ezra and Nehemiah are
intricately related as you will see.
We will learn of the tremendous will of Nehemiah as we delve
into his book. The pulse of this man’s devotion is constant and brisk, and the
personality that shines through as we read and reflect on his words and
actions, is nothing short of inspiring!
Please join us, as we learn of this devoted servant of God,
and experience the zeal with which he peruses his goals in the face of
scandalous irreverence in the name of the Lord!
