Nehemiah was a Hebrew in Persia when the word reached him that the Temple in Jerusalem was being reconstructed. He grew anxious knowing there was no wall to protect the city. Nehemiah invited God to use him to save the city. God answered his prayer by softening the heart of the Persian king, Artaxerxes, who gave not only his blessing, but also supplies to be used in the project. Nehemiah is given permission by the king to return to Jerusalem, where he is made governor. Nehemiah was a Jew in Persia who desired the wall of Jerusalem rebuilt. Nehemiah records the opposition to the rebuilding of the walls, and Nehemiah’s leadership in the rebuilding. This is a post-exilic historical book. The temple had been rebuilt, and now the walls of the city of Jerusalem were rebuilt. Nehemiah was a contemporary of Ezra, and both were concerned with rebuilding and restoration of Jerusalem. Nehemiah name means “Comforter”. Nehemiah is a type of Jesus Christ who comforts us and rebuilds our lives.
Key Verses: 1:3,5: 4:7; 6:15-16: 8:1
Blessings,
Apostle