Nehemiah 6:3

So I sent messengers to them, saying, "I am doing a great work and cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it to go down to you?"

Study Bible

So I sent messengers to them, saying,
Nehemiah's response to his adversaries is strategic and wise. By sending messengers, he maintains a level of diplomacy and avoids direct confrontation, which could lead to unnecessary conflict. This approach reflects the wisdom found in Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Nehemiah's leadership style is characterized by discernment and prudence, qualities essential for effective governance and conflict resolution.

“I am doing a great work
Nehemiah recognizes the significance of his mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. This "great work" is not just a construction project but a divine mandate to restore the city and its people. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls symbolizes the restoration of God's covenant with Israel, as seen in Isaiah 58:12, which speaks of rebuilding ancient ruins and raising up age-old foundations. Nehemiah's commitment to this task reflects the importance of prioritizing God's work above personal or political agendas.

and cannot come down.
Nehemiah's refusal to leave his work demonstrates his unwavering dedication and focus. This phrase highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of distraction and opposition. In the New Testament, Jesus exemplifies this same determination in Luke 9:51, where He resolutely sets out for Jerusalem despite knowing the challenges ahead. Nehemiah's steadfastness serves as a model for believers to remain committed to their God-given missions.

Why should the work stop
Nehemiah's rhetorical question underscores the critical nature of the task at hand. Stopping the work would not only delay the project but also potentially demoralize the people and give the enemies an opportunity to thwart their efforts. This reflects the principle found in Ecclesiastes 9:10, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." Nehemiah's question challenges the notion of abandoning God's work for lesser pursuits.

while I leave it to go down to you?”
Nehemiah's decision to not "go down" to his adversaries signifies his refusal to be drawn into their schemes. The phrase "go down" can also imply a descent into compromise or distraction. This mirrors the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4:1-11, where He refuses to be diverted from His mission by Satan's offers. Nehemiah's resolve to stay focused on his divine assignment serves as an example of prioritizing God's calling over worldly distractions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in this passage, Nehemiah is the governor of Judah and the leader of the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. His leadership and dedication to God's work are evident throughout the book.

2. Sanballat and Geshem
These are adversaries of Nehemiah who attempt to distract and intimidate him from completing the work on the wall. They represent opposition to God's plans and the persistence of worldly challenges.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the wall is being rebuilt. It holds significant spiritual and historical importance for the Jewish people as the center of worship and identity.

4. The Wall
The physical structure being rebuilt under Nehemiah's leadership. It symbolizes protection, restoration, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

5. The Messengers
Individuals sent by Nehemiah to deliver his response to Sanballat and Geshem. They play a role in maintaining communication and ensuring Nehemiah's focus remains on the task at hand.

Teaching Points

Focus on God's Work
Nehemiah's response to his adversaries teaches us the importance of staying focused on the mission God has given us. Distractions and opposition will come, but our commitment to God's work must remain unwavering.

Discernment in Leadership
Nehemiah demonstrates discernment by recognizing the intentions of Sanballat and Geshem. As leaders, we must be wise and discerning, understanding when to engage and when to stand firm.

The Power of a Firm Response
Nehemiah's firm and clear response to his adversaries shows the power of standing firm in our convictions. We must be prepared to defend our faith and mission with clarity and confidence.

The Importance of Prioritization
Nehemiah prioritizes the work on the wall over the demands of his adversaries. This teaches us to prioritize God's work in our lives, ensuring that we do not allow lesser things to divert our attention.

Perseverance in the Face of Opposition
The persistence of Nehemiah in the face of opposition is a powerful example of perseverance. We are called to persevere in our faith and mission, trusting that God will see us through challenges.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we discern when to engage with opposition and when to remain focused on our tasks, as Nehemiah did?

3. How does Nehemiah's prioritization of the wall-building project challenge us to evaluate our own priorities in life?

4. What are some modern-day "great works" that God might be calling us to focus on, and how can we remain steadfast in them?

5. How can the example of Nehemiah inspire us to persevere in our faith and mission despite challenges and distractions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4
This chapter describes earlier opposition to the rebuilding efforts, showing a pattern of resistance against God's work. It highlights the persistence of adversaries and the need for steadfastness.

Philippians 3:14
Paul speaks of pressing on toward the goal, which parallels Nehemiah's determination to complete the work God has set before him.

1 Corinthians 15:58
Encourages believers to be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, reflecting Nehemiah's commitment to his task.