[1]NASHVILLE (BP) – This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from The Gospel Project curriculum.
Bible Passage: Nehemiah 1, 6
Discussion Questions:
- Why is it important that we turn to God before acting or reacting to troubling events?
- How do Nehemiah’s prayer and the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s wall reveal God’s character and commitment to restore His people?
- How can you be faithful to God’s call in this season, even if someone or something opposes you?
Food for Thought:
When our lives or our environments are in disarray, we want restoration. We like things that are complete and at peace. Thankfully, God wants that for us as well, and He is the only One who can provide it.
Nehemiah was still in exile when the first group of Israelites returned to start rebuilding the temple. With that understanding, those like Nehemiah in exile probably had hope and an optimistic look at the future. But then they were sent word that, “The remnant in the province, who survived the exile, are in great trouble and disgrace. Jerusalem’s wall has been broken down, and its gates have been burned” (Nehemiah 1:3).
Nehemiah wept in sorrow, but also fasted and prayed. Through his prayer in chapter 1, we’re given an example on how to pray when we hear distressing news, when things are broken and not as expected.
[2]Nehemiah in his prayer started by acknowledging God’s character, including proclaiming that He is a promise-keeper. He then confessed sin, knowing that the Israelites were unfaithful to their covenant with God. Nehemiah quoted Scripture when recalling God’s promises. He recalled that God is for His people. The prophet humbly asked God to act and grant him favor.
God heard Nehemiah’s prayer, enabling him to return to Jerusalem to help rebuild the wall. But opposition arose. In chapter 6, surrounding leaders tried to prevent the wall’s completion, even falsely accusing the Israelites of rebellion. Nehemiah remained faithful despite the opposition, persevering in devotion and obedience to God.
Nehemiah and the Israelites successfully rebuilt the wall. As a result, the surrounding nations lost their confidence and saw what God could do. Through prayer and obedient action, Nehemiah sought and trusted God, who utilized Nehemiah to begin restoring Jerusalem.
Restoring and returning the Israelites to Jerusalem reflects God’s heart to be with His people. It reflects His character of being a promise-keeper. It reflects His desire to restore us and the world. God is in the work of restoration in our lives today as we choose to repent and believe in His Son, Jesus Christ. When we repent of our sin, He restores our fellowship with Him.
The Gospel Project
The Gospel Project is a chronological, Christ-centered study for kids, students and adults. The Bible is not a collection of stories. It is one story of God’s plan to rescue His people from sin and death. It is the story of redemption, the gospel message of Jesus Christ. More information can be found at Lifeway.com/gospelproject [3].
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