Click the chapter you want to study.
Below you will also find the summary of this book.
Purpose of The Book of Nehemiah:
To defend the legitimacy of the Ezra-Nehemiah program of renewal (Ezra rebuilds temple and
Nehemiah rebuilds city walls) and the need to continue it. To direct God’s people to re-establish their
identity in God and give them the wisdom to nurture and protect that identity.
Major Characters of The Book of Nehemiah:
Ezra, Nehemiah, Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Haggai, Zechariah, Darius, and Sanballat.
Summary of The Book of Nehemiah:
This book offers dynamic accounts of the victories and struggles of God’s People as
they attempt to rebuild their lives. Its content primarily describes the rebuilding and reform in postexilic
Judah during the latter half o the fifth century B.C. Ezra returns to the land to lead the community in
establishing the most significant priority known to humanity, that is, the worship of God. Despite
opposition in the form of intimidation and seduction, the community is successful in locking in on their
relationship with God through building the temple and studying God’s word.
Nehemiah follows Ezra with a building project in mind – namely rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem.
This wall would distinguish God’s people from the surrounding groups, but was not intended to separate
them from the world entirely. Engaging in the world around them, God’s people would maintain their
identity by nurturing their faith within community and wisely interacting with their surroundings.
Author and Dates of The Book of Nehemiah:
The book was likely written in the 4th century B.C. after Nehemiah’s ministry serving
as a guide to future generations.
Outline of The Book of Nehemiah:
Themes of The Book of Nehemiah:
Identity.
Community.
Opposition.
Prayer.
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