READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary l Nehemiah 8-13 focuses on Israel’s renewal of their commitment to the Lord, by addressing their inward spiritual issues and renewing the covenant. We learn that true renewal begins in the heart, as the Word of God renews, revives, and restores us.
- Read to Understand (v1-8)
We must have a deep hunger for God’s Word, which is the foundation of our faith. The people of Jerusalem took the initiative to ask Ezra to read the Law of Moses (v1). Likewise, Christians should take the initiative to seek spiritual renewal. There is power in collective spiritual growth, when God’s people are united by a shared purpose to hear His Word. We are encouraged when we know that we are not alone in our discipleship.
Understanding is crucial for renewal. The people of Jerusalem listened attentively as the Law was read for 6 hours from early morning until midday (v3). Evidently, they hungered to know God’s Law. Many Levites helped the people to understand and interpret God’s Word (v7-8). This implies that the assembly divided into smaller groups for exposition and discussion.
God’s Word is relevant for our daily living. It must be understood and internalised to produce transformation. We can gather around God’s Word in our small groups and personal study. When we value God’s Word, we find direction, comfort, and renewal. We must give reverence to God’s Word, accept its authority, cherish it and obey. - Respond to Apply (v9-12)
Scripture exposes our sin. The people of Jerusalem wept (v9). Perhaps they felt convicted of their sin, or perhaps they realised that their suffering could be prevented if their ancestors had obeyed God’s precepts. But the leaders rebuked the people for their tears (v9-11). They encouraged the people to celebrate because “the joy of the Lord is your strength” (v10).
God wants us to be convicted of our sin, but not remain in sin. If we repent without forgiveness, we will despair. But when there is assurance of pardon, we can worship and find satisfaction in the Lord. The Hebrew word for “strength” connotes the image of us hiding in God who is our mountain and stronghold. God’s Word brings us joy because He has forgiven our sin! Spiritual renewal is not sorrow for our past failures, but celebrating God’s grace and forgiveness.
Understanding God’s Word is transformative. It allows us to know our need for God, reveals our shortcomings, and leads to repentance and renewal. The goal of understanding must be shared by both teacher and listener. Both must be actively involved, and the process must engage mind and heart. Those who listen should worship God actively, think energetically, and participate completely. Those who teach should be in settings where they can learn. We must commit ourselves to be people of the Word. When we come to God’s Word with open hearts, we experience the joy and strength of renewal. - Rejoice to Share (v13-18)
The Feast of Tabernacles (v14-15) shows us that God’s Word must be declared orally and built visually. Renewal must culminate in action, and God’s people should not only feel inspired, but respond with wholehearted obedience. God’s fullness of life will be evident in our actions when our lives are aligned with His will.
The Feast of Tabernacles directed the people to three themes:
- Thanksgiving for the past. Israel thanked the Lord for His protection and provision during the Exodus journey, when they lived in temporary shelters. We often forget what God has done because we are too concerned about what we want God to do. We can note down specific instances of God’s goodness to remind ourselves that our confidence is in God, not the works of our hands.
- Witness in the present. Visiting travellers and merchants would be intrigued by the celebration and inquire about its meaning. The Israelites had the opportunity to proclaim the story of God to their guests and to the next generation.
- Confidence in the future. As pilgrim people in this life, we look forward to God to prepare an eternal home for us. This perspective gives us a sense of urgency for Jesus’ return. No matter how disappointing our present circumstances, we have hope for complete satisfaction in the future that Jesus brings.
We have four areas of opportunity to be God’s witnesses (v16)
- Our own roof: Family life
- The courtyard: Social life
- The house of God: Religious life
- The square: Business life
(Sermon notes by Bryan Tan)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
A. Read To Understand (v1-8)
- How does this passage challenge your view of the Bible?
- Is there anything you would like to change about your approach to God’s Word?
- Share how gathering as a small group around God’s Word has impacted your own spiritual renewal. If you are not in a small group, plan to join one before the end of the year.
B. Respond To Apply (v9-12)
- Share a recent time when responding to God’s Word brought renewal to your heart. How did it change your perspective or actions?
- As you seek renewal through the Word, what is one area in your life that you are praying to renew?
C. Rejoice To Share (v13-18)
- Where have you seen God’s faithfulness in your own life in the past?
- When you feel discouraged, what can you do to actively remind yourself that God is faithful?
- Reflect on how God’s Word brings forth weeping, joy, sharing, and obedience. Assess how much of this is experienced in your personal reading of Scripture, as well as in the church.
