Sermon Central
-
Character Study Of Nehemiah Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Mar 24, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Nehemiah’s life teaches us the power of prayer, perseverance, and godly leadership. He was a man who saw a problem, took action, and led with integrity. His unwavering faith in God and his strategic approach to leadership made him one of the most influential figures in Israel’s history.
CHARACTER STUDY OF NEHEMIAH – REBUILT JERUSALEM’S WALLS
Main Text: Nehemiah 2:17
"Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach."
Supporting Texts: Nehemiah 1:4-11, Nehemiah 4:6, Nehemiah 6:15-16, Proverbs 29:18, Philippians 4:13
INTRODUCTION:
Nehemiah was a man of vision, leadership, and dedication to God’s work. As a cupbearer to the king of Persia, he held a position of influence, yet his heart was burdened for the broken walls of Jerusalem. His story is a powerful example of faith, perseverance, and commitment to divine purpose.
Despite the opposition he faced from enemies such as Sanballat and Tobiah, Nehemiah remained steadfast in his mission. Through prayer, strategic planning, and teamwork, he successfully led the reconstruction of Jerusalem’s walls in just 52 days. His life teaches us about the power of godly leadership, resilience, and trust in God’s guidance.
The character of Nehemiah reveals the importance of intercession, action, and reliance on God’s strength. His work did not stop with physical rebuilding; he also brought spiritual revival by restoring the people’s commitment to God's laws.
1. NEHEMIAH’S BACKGROUND AND POSITION
a) A cupbearer to the king (Nehemiah 1:11)
Nehemiah served as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, a position of great trust and responsibility in Persia.
b) A man of influence and access (Nehemiah 2:1-8)
His closeness to the king allowed him to secure permission and resources for rebuilding Jerusalem.
c) His concern for Jerusalem (Nehemiah 1:3-4)
When he heard about the broken walls, he wept, fasted, and prayed for God's intervention.
d) His immediate response through prayer (Nehemiah 1:5-11)
Before making any request, he sought God’s direction through prayer and repentance.
e) Biblical Example: Joseph in Egypt also used his position to fulfil God’s purpose (Genesis 41:39-41).
2. NEHEMIAH’S VISION AND BURDEN FOR REBUILDING
a) Recognising the need (Nehemiah 2:17)
He saw that Jerusalem’s broken walls were a sign of disgrace and insecurity.
b) Sharing the vision with others (Nehemiah 2:18)
He motivated the people, saying, “Let us rise up and build.”
c) Facing opposition with faith (Nehemiah 4:1-3)
Sanballat and Tobiah mocked him, but he remained focused.
d) Encouraging teamwork and participation (Nehemiah 3:1-32)
He assigned different sections of the wall to various families and leaders.
e) Biblical Example: Moses shared God's vision of deliverance with Israel and led them out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10).
3. OPPOSITION AND PERSEVERANCE IN THE WORK
a) Ridicule and mockery from enemies (Nehemiah 4:1-3)
The enemies laughed at them, saying the walls would collapse.
b) Responding with prayer and action (Nehemiah 4:4-5)
Nehemiah prayed and kept working despite opposition.
c) Threats of attack (Nehemiah 4:7-9)
Their enemies plotted to attack, but Nehemiah armed the workers.
d) Overcoming conspiracy and distractions (Nehemiah 6:1-9)
Sanballat tried to lure Nehemiah away, but he refused.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus faced opposition but remained focused on His mission (Luke 4:28-30).
4. COMPLETION OF THE WALL AND SPIRITUAL REVIVAL
a) The wall was completed in 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15-16)
Despite opposition, they finished the task with God’s help.
b) Spiritual renewal through the reading of the Law (Nehemiah 8:1-8)
Ezra read the Scriptures, leading to national repentance.
c) National repentance and covenant renewal (Nehemiah 9:1-38)
The people confessed their sins and renewed their commitment to God.
d) Re-establishing proper worship (Nehemiah 10:28-39)
Nehemiah ensured that tithes, offerings, and temple services were restored.
e) Biblical Example: King Josiah also led a national revival after rediscovering the Law (2 Kings 23:1-3).
5. NEHEMIAH’S LEADERSHIP QUALITIES
a) He was a man of prayer (Nehemiah 1:4, 2:4)
He sought God before taking action.
b) He was courageous and determined (Nehemiah 6:11)
He refused to be intimidated by his enemies.
c) He was a visionary leader (Nehemiah 2:17-18)
He inspired and mobilised the people to work.
d) He upheld righteousness and justice (Nehemiah 5:6-13)
He rebuked the rich for exploiting the poor and restored fairness.
e) Biblical Example: Paul was also a visionary leader who built the early church despite persecution (Acts 20:22-24).
6. STRENGTHS OF NEHEMIAH
a) He had deep faith in God (Nehemiah 1:4-5)
His first response to every challenge was prayer.
b) He was a strategic planner (Nehemiah 2:6-8)
He carefully planned the project before execution.
c) He was fearless in the face of opposition (Nehemiah 6:11-13)
He refused to be intimidated by threats.
d) He had a servant’s heart (Nehemiah 5:14-19)
Unlike other governors, he did not exploit the people.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel also exhibited faith and courage in Babylon (Daniel 6:10-23).
7. WEAKNESSES OF NEHEMIAH
a) He was sometimes harsh in enforcing reforms (Nehemiah 13:25)
He physically confronted those who disobeyed God's laws.
b) He acted alone at times (Nehemiah 13:30-31)
