Building the Community (Nehemiah 9:38–10:39)

A firm covenant (9:38) “Amanah“- strongly emphasises faithfulness. Introduction A firm covenant (9:38) “Amanah“- strongly emphasises faithfulness.

The Heart of the Covenant Nehemiah 10:1-29

The heart of the covenant was the promise to be faithful.

This is seen in their promise to be pure and obedient (v 28) This is seen in their promise to be pure and obedient (v 28). This separation was now represented by the rebuilt walls and gates. Keep yourself pure. Watch what comes into your city.

The Parts of the Covenant Nehemiah 10:30-39

Marriage (v 30). The objective was to avoid idolatry. Sabbath (v 31). Sabbath was for rest and worship. Tithes (v 32-38). v 39 – “We will not neglect the house of our God.”

Lessons for Today

Marriage, Sabbath, Tithes – these represent family, marketplace, church. These biblical principles and aspirations have not changed. The principle of being involved with people but not infected by ungodliness.

The church and kingdom of God should be of paramount importance to us The church and kingdom of God should be of paramount importance to us. Christianity is not a spectator sport. If you were to make a new covenant with God, what shape would it take?

A Sad Footnote and Caution Nehemiah 13:1-31

They did not keep their promises. Tithes (13:4-14). “Why is the house of God neglected?” (13:11). Sabbath (13:15-22).

Intermarriages (13:23-28). Spiritual amnesia, laziness, and unfaithfulness are so ingrained in us, so much so that we have to constantly watch ourselves, covenant or not.

Further Further Lessons

It is easier to manage machines rather than people.

It is the things that are not seen, lying invisibly in the hearts of fallen human beings and in the relationships between them that need careful attention.

We seem to be often weakest at our most ardent promises.

4. When there are signs of. sinfulness developing, 4. When there are signs of sinfulness developing, decisive action is often necessary.