Nehemiah 6:2

Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: "Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono." But they were planning to harm me.

Study Bible

Sanballat and Geshem
These two figures are prominent adversaries of Nehemiah throughout the book. Sanballat was the governor of Samaria, and Geshem was an Arab leader. Their opposition to Nehemiah's work on the walls of Jerusalem is well-documented. Historically, their resistance represents the broader geopolitical tensions of the time, as neighboring regions were threatened by the re-establishment of a fortified Jerusalem. Their names are often associated with opposition to God's work, symbolizing the spiritual warfare believers face.

sent me a message
The act of sending a message in ancient times was significant, often involving messengers who traveled long distances. This phrase indicates a formal communication, suggesting an attempt to engage Nehemiah in dialogue. In a spiritual sense, it reflects how the enemy often uses subtle and seemingly innocuous means to distract or derail God's people from their mission.

Come, let us meet together
This invitation appears cordial and cooperative on the surface. However, it is a deceptive tactic. The phrase can be seen as a metaphor for the temptations and distractions that believers face, which often come disguised as reasonable or beneficial opportunities. It serves as a reminder to discern the true intentions behind offers and invitations.

in one of the villages on the plain of Ono
The plain of Ono was located northwest of Jerusalem, near the border of Samaria. It was a neutral ground, which might have seemed like a safe meeting place. However, its distance from Jerusalem meant that Nehemiah would be isolated from his support and vulnerable to attack. This geographical detail underscores the strategic cunning of Nehemiah's adversaries and highlights the importance of remaining within the protective boundaries of God's will.

But they were planning to harm me
Nehemiah's discernment is evident here. Despite the seemingly peaceful invitation, he perceives the underlying threat. This phrase emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and wisdom. In the broader biblical context, it reflects the reality that the enemy's intentions are often hidden and malicious, requiring believers to rely on God's guidance to avoid spiritual pitfalls.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah is a Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. He is tasked with rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.

2. Sanballat
A persistent adversary of Nehemiah, Sanballat is a Samaritan leader who opposes the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.

3. Geshem
Also known as Gashmu, he is an Arab leader allied with Sanballat in opposing Nehemiah's efforts.

4. The Plain of Ono
A location mentioned in the text, it is a region northwest of Jerusalem. It is significant as a place where Nehemiah's enemies sought to lure him away from his work.

5. The Plot to Harm Nehemiah
Sanballat and Geshem's invitation to meet was a ruse intended to harm Nehemiah and disrupt the rebuilding efforts.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Leadership
Nehemiah's ability to recognize the deceitful intentions of his enemies highlights the importance of discernment in leadership. Leaders must be vigilant and wise in assessing the motives of others.

Staying Focused on God's Work
Nehemiah's refusal to be distracted from his mission serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in the work God has called us to, despite external pressures and temptations.

The Reality of Opposition
The opposition faced by Nehemiah is a common experience for those doing God's work. Believers should be prepared for resistance and rely on God's strength to persevere.

The Importance of Prayer and Planning
Nehemiah's account underscores the necessity of prayer and strategic planning in overcoming challenges and fulfilling God's purposes.

Trusting God's Protection
Nehemiah's confidence in God's protection encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and care, even when facing threats.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's response to Sanballat and Geshem's invitation demonstrate discernment, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the opposition Nehemiah faced mirror the challenges Christians encounter today when pursuing God's work?

3. How can we stay focused on our God-given missions when distractions and opposition arise?

4. What role does prayer play in Nehemiah's leadership, and how can we incorporate similar practices in our decision-making processes?

5. How does Nehemiah's trust in God's protection encourage us to rely on God in times of danger or uncertainty? Can you think of other biblical figures who demonstrated similar trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4
This chapter provides context for the opposition faced by the Jews during the rebuilding of Jerusalem, showing a pattern of resistance from surrounding peoples.

Proverbs 27:12
This verse speaks to the wisdom of foreseeing danger and taking precautions, much like Nehemiah's discernment in recognizing the threat.

Matthew 10:16
Jesus advises His disciples to be "shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves," which parallels Nehemiah's cautious approach to his adversaries.