Nehemiah 6:17

Also in those days, the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobiah, and Tobiah's letters came back to them.

Study Bible

Also in those days
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context, during the time Nehemiah was rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. The phrase suggests continuity and ongoing challenges. Historically, this was a period of great tension and opposition, as Nehemiah faced external threats and internal dissent. The phrase underscores the persistence of these challenges, reminding us that spiritual and communal rebuilding often occurs amidst ongoing adversity.

the nobles of Judah
The "nobles" refers to the leading figures or aristocracy within the tribe of Judah. These individuals held significant influence and power. In the Hebrew context, the term for nobles often implies those who are expected to lead with wisdom and integrity. However, their actions in this verse reveal a compromise of their position, as they align with Tobiah, an adversary. This highlights the theme of internal betrayal and the complexity of leadership, where those expected to support God's work may sometimes falter.

sent many letters to Tobiah
The act of sending "many letters" indicates a sustained and deliberate communication. Tobiah, an Ammonite official, was a persistent opponent of Nehemiah's efforts. The Hebrew root for "letters" (אִגֶּרֶת, iggeret) suggests formal correspondence, which implies a level of conspiracy or collusion. This phrase reveals the depth of the internal threat Nehemiah faced, as the nobles were not merely passive but actively engaged with the enemy, undermining the work of God.

and Tobiah’s letters came to them
This reciprocal communication indicates a two-way relationship, suggesting that Tobiah had influence and perhaps leverage over the nobles. The exchange of letters signifies a breach in loyalty and a compromise of the community's integrity. Historically, Tobiah's connections through marriage and alliances with Jewish families gave him a foothold within Jerusalem. This phrase serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of divided loyalties and the subtle ways in which external influences can infiltrate and disrupt God's work.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah is a Jewish leader who is instrumental in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. He faces opposition from various external and internal sources.

2. Nobles of Judah
These are influential leaders within the Jewish community who, during the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, maintained correspondence with Tobiah, an adversary of Nehemiah.

3. Tobiah
An Ammonite official who opposed Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. He had familial and political ties with some of the Jewish nobles, which he used to undermine Nehemiah's work.

4. Jerusalem
The city whose walls Nehemiah was tasked with rebuilding. It represents the heart of Jewish identity and worship.

5. Letters
The correspondence between the nobles of Judah and Tobiah, which signifies the internal betrayal and political intrigue Nehemiah faced.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
The nobles of Judah compromised their integrity by aligning with Tobiah. Believers must be cautious of forming alliances that can undermine their faith and mission.

The Importance of Discernment
Nehemiah's situation highlights the need for discernment in leadership. Christians should seek wisdom to recognize and address internal threats to their spiritual community.

Faithfulness Amidst Opposition
Despite the opposition, Nehemiah remained steadfast. Believers are encouraged to remain faithful to God's calling, even when facing internal and external challenges.

Guarding Against Division
The division caused by the nobles' correspondence with Tobiah serves as a warning to guard against actions that can divide the body of Christ.

The Power of Prayer and Perseverance
Nehemiah's account is a testament to the power of prayer and perseverance. Christians are reminded to rely on prayer and God's strength in times of trial.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivations might the nobles of Judah have had for maintaining correspondence with Tobiah, and how can we guard against similar compromises in our lives?

2. How does Nehemiah's response to internal betrayal inform our approach to handling conflicts within the church or our personal lives?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of discernment in our daily decision-making, especially when faced with opposition?

4. How does the account of Nehemiah encourage us to remain faithful to God's calling despite facing both internal and external challenges?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced division or betrayal within a community. How did you respond, and what biblical principles can guide you in similar future situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4
This chapter describes earlier opposition to the rebuilding efforts, showing a pattern of resistance against the restoration of Jerusalem.

Proverbs 29:25
This verse speaks to the fear of man being a snare, which relates to the nobles' fear and compromise with Tobiah.

Matthew 10:36
Jesus speaks of a man's enemies being those of his own household, which parallels the internal betrayal Nehemiah experienced.