Nehemiah 5:9

So I continued, "What you are doing is not right. Shouldn't you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our foreign enemies?

Study Bible

So I continued
This phrase indicates Nehemiah's persistence and leadership. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here suggests a continuation of speech or action, emphasizing Nehemiah's role as a proactive leader. Historically, Nehemiah was a governor who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls. His leadership was not just about physical reconstruction but also about moral and spiritual reform. This persistence is a model for Christian leaders today, who are called to address issues of justice and righteousness with unwavering resolve.

What you are doing is not right
Nehemiah confronts the nobles and officials about their unjust practices. The Hebrew word for "right" here is "tov," which means good, pleasing, or proper. This confrontation is rooted in the Mosaic Law, which emphasized justice and fairness, especially towards the poor and marginalized. Nehemiah's boldness in calling out wrongdoing reflects the biblical principle of accountability within the community of believers. It serves as a reminder that Christians are called to uphold God's standards of righteousness in all aspects of life.

Should you not walk
The phrase "walk" in Hebrew often signifies one's conduct or way of life. It is a metaphor for living in accordance with God's commandments. Nehemiah is urging the people to align their actions with their faith. This concept is echoed throughout Scripture, where believers are encouraged to "walk in the light" (1 John 1:7) and to "walk by faith" (2 Corinthians 5:7). It underscores the importance of living out one's faith in practical, everyday actions.

in the fear of our God
The "fear of God" is a central theme in the Old Testament, denoting reverence, awe, and respect for the Almighty. In Hebrew, the word "yirah" conveys a sense of both fear and worship. This fear is not about being afraid but about recognizing God's holiness and authority. Nehemiah appeals to this fear as a motivating factor for ethical behavior. For Christians, the fear of God is foundational to wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 9:10) and is a guiding principle for righteous living.

to avoid the reproach
Reproach refers to disgrace or disapproval. In the context of Nehemiah's time, the Jewish community was under scrutiny by surrounding nations. The Hebrew word "cherpah" implies shame or scorn. Nehemiah is concerned that their actions could bring dishonor not only to themselves but also to God's name. This highlights the importance of maintaining a good testimony before others, as Christians are called to be "the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14) and to live in a way that brings glory to God.

of our foreign enemies
The mention of "foreign enemies" reflects the geopolitical realities of Nehemiah's time. The Jews were surrounded by hostile nations who were opposed to their rebuilding efforts. The Hebrew term for "enemies" is "oyev," which denotes adversaries or foes. Nehemiah's concern is that internal injustices could weaken their position and give their enemies cause to mock or attack them. This serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare Christians face and the need to stand united in righteousness to withstand external opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes and later became the governor of Judah. He led the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and addressed social injustices among the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The people of Judah who returned from exile and were involved in rebuilding Jerusalem. They faced internal and external challenges, including economic exploitation among their own people.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the events take place, specifically during the rebuilding of its walls after the Babylonian exile.

4. Foreign Enemies
The surrounding nations and peoples who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem and sought to undermine the efforts of the Israelites.

5. Economic Injustice
The specific issue Nehemiah addresses in this chapter, where wealthier Jews were exploiting their poorer brethren through usury and slavery.

Teaching Points

The Fear of God as a Guiding Principle
Nehemiah emphasizes the importance of living in the fear of God, which means having a deep respect and reverence for Him. This should guide our actions and decisions, especially in how we treat others.

Addressing Injustice Among Believers
Nehemiah's confrontation of the wealthy Jews highlights the need for believers to address and rectify injustices within their own communities. We are called to live justly and love mercy.

Witness to the World
Our actions as believers are observed by those outside the faith. Nehemiah reminds the Israelites that their conduct should not bring reproach from foreign enemies. Our lives should reflect God's righteousness and love.

Repentance and Restoration
Nehemiah's call to change unjust practices is a call to repentance. Believers are encouraged to examine their lives, repent of wrongdoing, and restore relationships and practices according to God's standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's leadership in addressing injustice inspire you to confront issues within your own community or church?

2. In what ways can the fear of God influence your daily decisions and interactions with others?

3. How can we ensure that our actions as Christians do not bring reproach from those outside the faith?

4. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced economic injustice. How can Nehemiah's approach guide your response?

5. How do the teachings in Nehemiah 5:9 connect with the principles found in James 2:1-9 regarding favoritism and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 1:7
This verse emphasizes the importance of the fear of the Lord as the beginning of knowledge, which connects to Nehemiah's call for the Israelites to walk in the fear of God.

Exodus 22:25
This law against charging interest to fellow Israelites provides a backdrop to the economic injustices Nehemiah confronts.

James 2:1-9
This passage warns against showing favoritism and highlights the importance of treating all people with fairness and love, echoing Nehemiah's call for justice.