---

I. A sinful alliance SOUGHT. "Let us build with you" (ver. 2).

1. The people. "The adversaries of Judah and Benjamin" (ver. 1). These were a mixed race, partly Israelitish but chiefly foreign. The more dangerous because the more nearly related to Israel; error is more dangerous when allied with truth.

2. The pretext.

(1) Utility. "Let us build." They would help in the enterprise of Israel. Sinful alliances always seem advantageous.

(2) Religion. "For we seek your God" (ver. 2). Those who seek sinful alliances often assume the garb of piety; they come as angels of light.

(3) Community of interest. The Samaritans wanted to make a common cause with Israel; what fellowship hath light with darkness?

3. The plan.

(1) Secret, and not open. They concealed their real intentions. Suspect the world.

(2) Friendly, and not hostile. They came not as warriors, but as helpers. Be not deluded by the smiles of sin.

(3) Dangerous, and not safe. The kiss of sin is perilous; the dagger is behind.

II. A sinful alliance REJECTED. "Ye have nothing to do with us" (ver. 3).

1. Wisdom. The hypocrisy was detected by the leaders of Israel. We need spiritual discernment in dealing with the world; we must try the spirits. Be wise as serpents.

2. Independence. "But we ourselves together will build" (ver. 3).. The Church can do its own work; it needs not the aid of the unholy. God requires the good man to be independent of carnal helpers and of worldly compacts; dare to reject apparent advantage.

3. Determination. A most decided reply was given to the proposed allies, and Israel was prepared to brave the result. Hesitation would have been fatal.

4. Disaster. The professed friends soon reveal their enmity: reject the world, and it will soon "trouble you in building." The enmity of sin is better than its friendship; sin triumphs for a time. - E.

---

---

KJV: Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the children of the captivity builded the temple unto the LORD God of Israel;

WEB: Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the children of the captivity were building a temple to Yahweh, the God of Israel;