When you are rebuilding, there will be struggles. It also takes much prayer and dependence on the Lord. What will it look like for God to build and to plant? You will find that some of the challenges you face are like what Gods people face in building the second temple. Nehemiah 1:1-4, Nehemiah 2:17-19. They believed it could be done! Those who had been left behind when Judah had been taken away into exile were those deemed the least of the bunch, those not worthy even of capture. THE REALITIES OF REBUILDING Every community has seen slow-downs, layoffs, foreclosures, bankruptcies, and angry tears among the end of countless dreams. Nehemiah shows us how to rebuild successfully. Disobey Me and youll be carried off into captivity. Thats what happened. This new boss was determined to rid the company of all slackers. It was a project that required God's help. ENDURING THE STRUGGLES OF REBUILDING Ezra 1, Ezra 2, Here is a sermon that focuses on building people - which is also known as good old fashioned "Discipleship", "Building People" 1. Giving ourselves first to the Lord, we can be amazed at what god can and will do through us. ", The merchant in the old store, the little store surrounded by the big bully, had a banner of his own. 3) As your pastor, I cannot rebuild you spiritually. They secured roadways, built super highways, improved shipping and transportation, and even volunteered to transport missionaries from the Middle East to Europe (via persecution) spreading that message faster than could have ever been done, if the first followers of Jesus hadnt had the unintentional help of the Romans. Ive been wrong. The Lord Jesus Christ live the life we have failed to live, died the atoning death we need, and rose victoriously so that we can be truly . Your children get hurt, you experience divorce, you lose your job, you have an illness, etc There are times when it seems that we have lost Haggai 1:2-6. 2. The housing market has changed dramatically, dramatic stock market losses have taken huge bites out of once-healthy retirement accounts, and credit that was once easily obtained is suddenly in a lock-down mode. read more, Scripture: Rebuilding Your Temple Opening illustration: Al Greens perspective on rebuilding Bay St. Louis, The outline I borrowed but the sermon is mine. a. If your health starts to disappear, weeping is OK. Some commentators believe this rebuilding of a new altar required them to demolish a makeshift altar that was built after the Babylonians destroyed the Temple (see Jer 41:5, in which a grain offering is brought after the fall of Jerusalem [Jer 39:1-8]; this perhaps involved a makeshift altar; cf. I will build them up, and not tear them down; I will plant them, and not pluck them up (Jeremiah 24:6). Nehemiah 1:1-11, Denomination: He took a task that seemed impossible, mobilized a team of people, and accomplished the task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Opening illustration: Rebuilding PCB JesusWalk Bible Study Series. read more, Scripture: Since Hearing about the instructions wont be sufficient. This was a really, really big day, and there was lots of music, and lots of celebration. read more, Scripture: B. If there is one thing which should summarize the Christian church, it is mission. Nehemiah organizes resources and teams, then completes the task in 52 days -- all amidst stiff opposition from Judah's enemies. He worked through people like Daniel and Shadrach, Meshach and Abendigo. It might be a time when a persons physical health turns sour. read more, Scripture: To rebuild successfully 2001. 3. (Romans 8:31) What shall we then say to these things? Series: Rebuilding [#4] 3 OVERCOMING OBSTACLES AND OPPOSITION WITH GOD 4 WHEN YOU FACE OPPOSITION AS YOU TRY TO REBUILD God had told them: Obey Me and youll live in the land for a long time. And no longer shall each one teach his neighbor and each his brother, saying, Know the Lord, for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the Lord. Your Bible study. Nehemiah 3:1-32 Text: Nehemiah Chapter 1 Gods people had lived in Israel for centuries before. A study of the book of Nehemiah. What about the environment? As cruel as it sounds, even the unspeakable actions of Hitler were used by God for good. And he promised to prove himself to be an equally patient, compassionate, and merciful Redeemer a Rebuilder. Featuring Jen Wilkin, Jennifer Rothschild, Kristi McLelland, and more! There wasnt a single king in the north that was godly, they say. The Lord is in this rebuilding. By and large, Americans arent starving, arent walking, arent living in garbage dumps and arent sending under-clothed children out scavenging for food. Instead of overthrowing our rebellion and tossing us into hell, he tossed his own Son to the wolves of evil where he was crucified (Acts 2:23). He wants you to remain broken down. 2. Introduction This is the 4th sermon in the series "Rebuilding". What if tough financial times were actually a test from God? They returned from captivity in a trip that would take today, about four hours by air, even counting for a security check at the airport. And more than 100,000 taxpayers have let it go. Instead of Atlanta, it was Jerusalem that had been destroyed. 1. 1:3 The wall of Jerusalem is broken down and its gates are destroyed by fire. Others from Judah had been there the entire time. The talk of rebuilding is exciting, the actual work usually isnt. Rebuilding Ukraine: reconstruction of war-hit streets continues - in pictures 3d ago Ukraine may be willing to hold talks on Crimea, suggests Zelenskiy adviser Lean times, tough times, are difficult. Opening illustration: Rebuilding PCB The story is told of a company who felt like it was time for a shake-up, so they hired a new CEO. Introduction: Reading about the refunds wont do it. Weve known for years, for decades, that burning fossil fuels is bad for the environment. 1. read more, Scripture: The people prayed And Jerusalem is a symbol of the city of God, God's dwelling place and the center of life for the world. Text: Nehemiah Chapter 1 The Babylonians came and conquered Disobey Me and youll be carried off into b. 2) They trusted that God would fight for them (4:20). Navigating the challenges and joys of ministry life. However, from the vantage point of history, we understand that because the Greeks conquered the world, the world suddenly had one common language. The wall had lain in the rubble for decades because no one had the spiritual insight and fortitude to rebuild it. They saw animals being killed, right in front of their eyes, and they saw the blood collected. 3. Nehemiah's rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem can teach us much about the steps to personal revival. This is the 5th sermon in the series "Rebuilding". Patient: Whats the good news? A wife discovers that her husband is using pornography. They ignored the opposition If youre ever going to benefit from money that is rightfully yours, youve got to fill in some forms, mail the information to the IRS and eventually, cash a check! Nothing significant about faith is learned in good times. Pentecostal. Abraham, too, when he comes to a new place, would build an altar (Genesis 12:7-8; 13:4, 18; 22:9), as did Isaac and Jacob after him (Genesis 26:25; 33:20; 35:1, 3, 7). What if God is forcing us into a corner where weve got to make use of renewable energy? He was a great leader whom God used to pull off a phenomenal feat: he instilled a vision in God's remnant in Jerusalem to rebuild the walls of the city. How Nehemiah begins to re-build the walls of Jerusalem. Its nearly impossible picture the aftermath of the Civil War, when the city smoldered after a relentless, 36-day shelling from Shermans Union troops. It's time to rebuild. Individuals got involved And this is Ezra and Nehemiahs story, for they were the men who inspired those who had returned to re-build. And now that Son has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises (Hebrews 8:6). Once Nehemiah convinced the beleaguered residents of Jerusalem to join an all-in effort to rebuild the walls, they had to deal with any number of obstacles. 43 Bible Verses about rebuilding Then they will rebuild the ancient ruins, They will raise up the former devastations; And they will repair the ruined cities, The desolations of many generations. 2. Nevertheless, weve got a lot of people hurting. Go back for Proverbs 3:5-6, Denomination: NEHEMIAH 1:1-4; 8:1-6; 9:1-3 Remember those piercing words God spoke to Samuel (1 Samuel 16:7) But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. Ezra 1:1, Denomination: Will you begin tonight? Introduction: Proverbs 3:5-6. Nehemiah 1:1-4, Denomination: In this passage of Scripture we see the wisdom of Nehemiah as he prepares to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. As I processed the trials and sorrows of the last year, personally and across the United States, I reread what the Lord said to Jeremiah when he called him into ministry: See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, The setting is about 500 years before the time of Christ. Inspect your heart. Today we confront a simple, universal truth: Rebuilding is hard work. GETTING STARTED RIGHT The news reports tell us that were in hard times, right now. The decree of Cyrus (1) B. Its being at-one-ment with God, through Jesus Christ. The setting is about 500 years before the time of Christ. B. This sermon encourages believers that rebuilding our lives is not impossible when it is covered with believing prayer. read more, Scripture: Rebuild & Renew: The Post-Exilic Books, by Ralph F. Wilson. The words next, after and but in this chapter indicate that at least 34 groups worked on the wall. Which do you want first? Baptist. In the history covered by Ezra and Nehemiah, several world leaders work to carry out Gods plan. 18 For the builders, everyone had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. Patient: Give me the bad news first. They thrived. In the new covenant, through Jesus Christ of Nazareth, God finally redeems, rebuilds, and replants. (Jude 1:20-21) But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. (1 Timothy 6:11-12) But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. This was the inventory: 30 gold basins, 1,000 silver basins, 29 silver knives, 10 30 gold bowls, 410 various silver bowls, and 1,000 other articles. Your participation is necessary. You CAN do it! In fact, says the Bible, lean times might be the very best times, ever, in which you can take major steps forward in your faith. Now walls represent two things among others. Text: Nehemiah 4:6-23 Our messages for this quarter are based on the theme, 'Arise and Build.' This theme actually comes from the book of Nehemiah (2:20), which describes how God led the people Israel in the task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. REBUILDING THE WALLS OF REVIVAL I try to give you the spiritual tools needed, but you must work with God to rebuild your broken walls. Today you and I have a task and that is to rebuild the lives of people. In this sermon, we see how Nehemiah helped the exiles begin rebuilding the walls, and we learn how to begin rebuilding out lives. Then Last week we look at how after the Jews return from Babylon, they got sidetracked Or, if I could put it this way, they were leaning on God. You are currently impersonating {{userSessionData.email}}. On that day will your boundary be extended. on re-building the temple. Doctor: Your other leg wont need to be The setting is about 500 years before the time of Christ. Application in todays world is as important to OT scriptures as it is to those in the NT. Nehemiah 1:1-6:16, Denomination: Nehemiah 4:18, Todays message is about being like Jesus. In our lean times? Jesus told us to be watching, be ready, and be praying. All their neighbors supported them with silver articles, gold, goods, livestock, and valuables, in addition to all that was given as a freewill offering. to destroy and to overthrow, They rebuild their demolished city. read more, Scripture: Introduction: They were allowed to go back to Jerusalem. Ill give the first portion to the Lord, and figure out how the rest of lifes expenses are sorted out after Ive done that.. read more, Scripture: Politically they were looking for Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. The Book of Ezra "I will love you, O L ORD, my strength. A. read more, Scripture: Same is true today. Workers cleared the Temple Mount, quarried new stones, cleaned old stones, and finally, they laid the foundation for the Temple. Hearing that there are refunds available isnt enough. (2 Peter 3:18) But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. At two key moments, two key leaders built altars in Jerusalem, and offered burnt sacrifices there. Its time to put action to all of the planning and praying. Did you fall back into an old pattern of sin this year? Rebuilding The Walls Nehemiah 2:11-20, Denomination: INTRODUCTION. read more, Scripture: Sometimes it's just a matter of thinking clearly. b. That is a sweet, sweet offering to the heart of God, and in return, God removes all your sin from his record. Another key leader of Jerusalems rise from the ashes was Zerubbabel, who took the lead on re-building the temple. Or, maybe you are a Nehemiah who can help and intercede for others and encourage those in need. The blood of those sacrificed animals was the symbolic moment when God was forgiving the sins of His people. Please see below for details. For them, finding enough food, and finding good shelter, took all their work, all their time, and all their emotional energy. Baptist. 1. Nehemiah 4:7-9. Introduction In the countryside near Leicester, England, there stands an ancient church whose walls are inscribed with an eloquent memorial. Since the heart of these lean times comes from not having as much money as we used to, what about the money? Do you grieve over the behavior of our president? God is going to make the call as to whether one goes to heaven, or one goes to hell. The most obvious application point deals with our offerings at church. REBUILDING SUCCESSFULLY Our churches have become complacent like the people of Nehemiahs day and we need Revival. A year of 7 Now it happened, when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the walls of It happened at a time when the captivity of the Jews had already come to an end. The southern kingdom was known as Judah, and its best claim to power was Jerusalem, its capitol and the spiritual center of the people. He even says, I will rejoice in doing them good (Jeremiah 32:41). If God be for us, who can be against us? Humble yourself. The enemies mocked them (4:2-3). It is what God knows to be true deep down on the inside. 5 Principles of Building Walls. Just I know I'm not easy to work with, but I have this assurance which is found in Philippians 1:6 (ESV): 6 And I am sure of this, that he . *Indicated Required Field See ourPrivacy Policy. Other costs start climbing. At the end of all this rebuilding they experience revival of true religion. But there was also this: Ezra 3:12-13 But many of the older priests, Levites, and family leaders, who had seen the first temple, wept loudly when they saw the foundation of this house, but many [others] shouted joyfully. In time, the northern kingdom was completely destroyed by the Assyrians. They learned as they worked. So Much is Learned from History NEHEMIAH 1:1-4; 8:1-6; 9:1-3 But the commission to Jeremiah doesn't end with destruction. We need to rebuild. The story is told of a company who felt like it was time for a shake-up, so they hired a new CEO. For the past two weeks we have been looking at The Revitalization of the Lords House and People. We examined in 2 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 24 how Joash rallied the people to give to the repair of the temple. Not a building stood untouched by the battle, and those left behind were there only because they were too poor, or too wounded, to leave. I definitely thank Him for His patience and for His willingness to persevere in what He started to do. 1. Christian/Church Of Christ. Men like Zerubbabel came to be household names in Israel, because they followed in the courageous footsteps of Ezra and Nehemiah. And what about basic courage? Our ministries at the church deal as much with energy costs as any business in town. 1. GETTING STARTED RIGHT Holiness. Disobey Me and youll be carried off into And we believe the Bibles message is crystal clear. As they went back to Jerusalem, they were making a huge faith statement. A. Copyright 2023 Northside Baptist Church. Is there a wall that is broken down and lying in decay? The great city had lain in ruins for decades. Last week we established the realities of rebuilding. To rebuild successfully His banner reached across the entire width of his little store. INTRO.- ILL.- A doctor said to his patient, I have some good news and some bad news. Nehemiah 4:6, Nehemiah 6:15-16. Your community. 1. This new boss was determined to rid the company of all slackers. Introduction: The rebuilding of the Jerusalem wall was a physical project, but it was also a spiritual project. Introduction: -Prayer conforms us to God and ensures Glory to God. The wall had lain in the rubble for decades because no one had the spiritual insight and fortitude to rebuild it. Most people in the world have no experience of lasting joy in their lives. Our churches have become complacent like the people of Nehemiahs day and we need Revival. And evidence of that claim could be centered in two new places of worship, complete with their golden calves. And dont take our version of lean times to ancient Jerusalem, either. And during that time God continued to be with his people, even after they had failed him so completely. 7. Nehemiah 1:1-7:3. read more, Exposition of Neh 1 about hte burden that Nehemiah had for the Kingdom of God, Text: Nehemiah 1:1-11, Title: A Rebuilders Burden, Date/Place: NRBC, 8/26/07, AM read more, Scripture: read more, Scripture: Copyright 2003-2023 | Outreach, Inc., All rights reserved. Baptist. Together, the two men were used by God to rebuild the city, rebuild the Temple, and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. I've mastered the art of bouncing back. Hes the author of. The last year has been one of the most confusing, troubling, and heartbreaking for many Christians in America, especially for younger believers. 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Not impossible when it is covered with believing prayer of Ezra and Nehemiah, world. Of lean times comes from not having as much money as we used to, what about instructions... 8:31 sermon on rebuilding what shall we then say to these things introduction: -Prayer us... Re-Build the walls of Jerusalem can teach us much about the instructions wont be sufficient reports... Others from Judah had been destroyed can teach us much about the instructions wont be sufficient inspired those who returned...