SCRIPTURE: Nehemiah Chapter 5

More problems plague the first generation of new exiles in Jerusalem in Nehemiah 5. Problems exist from the outside—enemies surround Israel who do not want these Jews to succeed. However, in Nehemiah 5, we encounter significant internal problems. The economy is plagued by, well, a plague. Actually, more than that, the upper class uses extortion, exorbitant taxation, and high interest rates to exploit their own people! So much so, some lower-class farmers are forced to sell their own children into slavery (bondservitude).

The situation is dire, indeed.

Enter Nehemiah! He addresses issues with a stern rebuke, forcing the upper crust to commit to change, including taking religious vows to hold them accountable. It’s hard to imagine how important a figure like Nehemiah was. Without his extreme approach to fixing the economic crisis, one can only wonder how long Israel would self-implode. However, redemptive history involves God’s overpowering and overreaching hand through people to achieve His purposes and promises.

It’s a practical and challenging chapter. May the Lord use this Sunday Sermon for His glory and our good.

Peace,

Pastor Mark