Rise and Rebuild: Celebrations for Spiritual Renewal
© South Bay Community Church
Sermon Reflections: Rise and Rebuild: Celebrations for Spiritual Renewal
Date: 29 May 2024
Speaker: Associate Pastor Harry Cox
Sermon Text: Nehemiah8
Sermon Reflections: Rise and Rebuild: Celebrations for Spiritual Renewal
Date: 29 May 2024
Speaker: Associate Pastor Harry Cox
Sermon Text: Nehemiah8
Sermon Quick Summary
We are continuing our mini-series, “Rise and Rebuild.” Wherever there is brokenness, including broken systems, relationships, or communities in this world, there is a need for repair and healing. Pastor Tammy Long has delivered three messages covering Nehemiah Chapters 1 through 4 in this Rise and Rebuild miniseries. Nehemiah was deeply troubled by the literal broken walls around Jerusalem, which left his people vulnerable, unprotected, and in disgrace. Brokenness in the fallen world needing repair and healing includes broken systems, relationships, or communities. He went to God in prayer with fasting and mourning. God gave him a vision. Nehemiah assessed the situation and mobilized the diverse community. Nehemiah faced opposition and internal struggles like fatigue and fear. Continual prayer and action in support of the vision got Nehemiah through it.
This message in the Rise and Rebuild miniseries is focused on Nehemiah Chapter 8. As recorded in Nehemiah 6:15-16, rebuilding the wall was finished and perceived by all as accomplished with the help of God. Nehemiah continued to mobilize the community guided by the vision from God. Here is a summary of 7 applications to our lives today of Nehemiah Chapter 8 that this message will explore. (1) Reading or hearing God’s Word with explanations to ensure understanding can be convicting with feelings of falling short. (2)Careful examination of God’s Word leads to obedience. (3) We may then engage in self-remorse or cry, but instead, God wants us to celebrate. (4) God directs us to spiritual renewal in our celebration. (5) Celebrations can be spiritual renewals if we have God as part of our celebrations. (6) The spiritual renewal will point out, transform us, and remind us about the attributes of God and what God has done to bless us, our ancestors, and God’s people. (7) The Hebrew language words convey truths that point to the Good News Gospel of Christ. These words in the Hebrew of the Old Testament facilitate obedient celebrations of the right relationship with God both for the Israelites in 845 BC and for us today. The Israelite's use of the Hebrew words translated town, people, water, scribe, priest, bless, amen, hand, holy, and strength in Nehemiah 8 facilitate obedience in embracing celebration for spiritual renewal in the joy of relationship with God. These are words celebrating the joy of God’s mercy and forgiveness as we remember what God has done for us, our ancestors, and God’s people. This is not self-absorbed condemnation based on our falling short, but joy in celebrating and trusting in Jesus Christ.
Let each of us read and hear the Word of God, pray, and teach for understanding just as Ezra and the Jewish leaders did. Let’s worship God with joy because when we hear the Word of God and obey, we are truly living and experiencing spiritual renewal.
Nehemiah 7:73b- The Jewish Calendar Celebrations; God’s Heart for Justice
October is a spiritual holiday season that God intended to be celebrated with spiritual renewal and town could have figurative walls from unequal injustices on the oppressed.
“In October, when the Israelites had settled in their towns,” (Nehemiah 7:73b). October 8, 445 BC is the first day of the seventh month on the Jewish calendar. The narrative recounted in Chapter 8 verses 1-12 took place on the first day of the seventh month when Jews are scheduled to celebrate the Feast of Trumpets, involving Sabbath Rest, blowing of trumpets, and a holy convocation. This annual festival was followed by great rejoicing in a seven day annual celebration of spiritual renewal known as The Festival of Booths. Ezra’s readings were observations of the Israelites’ wilderness exile and the giving of the Law during the exit from slavery in Egypt, which the people celebrated joyously, followed by solemn contemplation.
The Hebrew Word for “town” can be a separate unequal section of town (like a “hood” or “ghetto”). The Hebrew word was used for a portion of a city, with or without walls, but, it could have figurative walls, like injustices from segregation. When we refer to a town or city today, we know there are often metaphorical walls from segregation and inequalities between sections of the town. Like we experience in our daily life today, in 445 BC, sections of town had injustices from also living in a fallen world. This use of town is pointing to the Words and Life of Jesus as our model. God requires caring for poor as modeled by Jesus (See Luke 14:18) for justice to set at liberty those who are oppressed.
Nehemiah 8:1 - People including women and children; living water; scribe as truth teller
“1 And all the people assembled with a unified purpose at the square just inside the Water Gate. They asked Ezra the scribe to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had given for Israel to obey (Nehemiah 8:1). The Persian King Artaxerxes had appointed Ezra as scribe to teach God’s Law and the laws of the King. The fact that the people asked Ezra to read the Mosaic Law shows that they were familiar with these public readings. The first day of the seventh month was only a few days since rebuilding the wall was completed on the 25th day of the sixth month (Ezra 6:15).
Even in this patriarchal society, the word translated peoples include all of Israel, including women and children able to understand. As directed by scripture, women and children joined the men for these solemn occasions (See Deuteronomy 31:12, Joshua 8:35, and 2 Kings 23:2). The Israelites used this word to refer to the Israeli community as the holy, special people of God. They used this Hebrew word for them to remember that God had rescued them from slavery to Pharoah, who set himself up as a rival god. They understood this Hebrew word to represent God’s presence that gave their identity as the community of Israel. We remember what God has done for us.
The Hebrew Word for “Water” in its figurative truth facilitates celebration and spiritual renewal in a dry place or still waters of peace. The Water Gate led to the Gihon spring for physical essentials. The Israelites were also using this word with a meaning like what followers of Christ use as living water. For example, “And a man shall be as a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers in water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land” (Isaiah 32:2). This Hebrew word for water is used in the 23rd Psalm. Rest and peace are accompanied by waters of rest or quiet waters. “God leads me besides the still waters (Psalm 23:2). So the meeting at the Water Gate brings thoughts of spiritual renewal in 845 BC and for us today as God providing waters in a dry place or still waters of peace.
The Hebrew Word for “Scribe” in intensive form in presenting truth leads into a spiritual celebration, not condemnation. Labeling Ezra as a scribe emphasizes a listing or enumeration of the truth. For example, “And Moses said (to Aaron and Levites), ‘this is the thing that the Lord commanded you to do, that the glory of the Lord may appear to you’” (Leviticus 9:6).
Nehemiah 8:2-3- Priest is a teacher for understanding who can fall short, but Jesus is our great high priest
“2 So on October 8 Ezra the priest brought the Book of the Law before the assembly, which included the men and women and all the children old enough to understand. 3 He faced the square just inside the Water Gate from early morning until noon and read aloud to everyone who could understand. All the people listened closely to the Book of the Law.” (Nehemiah 8:2-3). Ezra, the priest, was reading the Law, and the Levites and priests explained what Ezra read to make sure everyone understood what they heard. The public reading would have included the celebration of the Feast of Trumpets celebrated that day annually. But much moral instruction from other parts of the Mosaic Law would have been also publically read as the people stood for about five hours listening to the scriptures.
This Hebrew word for priest was used for those who act as teachers Mosaic Law. There are many scriptural examples of priests and Levites assigned to teach the Mosaic Law. Aaron was a priest assigned over Israel, and sometimes like other priests and Levites he fell short (For example, see Micah 2:8). Our spiritual renewal is enhanced because Jesus is our great high priest who gives us understanding through His words and life, without spot or blemish, unique and eternal.
Nehemiah 8:4-6 – Israelites and us today rise to feet at reading God’s Word; praise and blessings of worship go together; Amen is intense declaration of truth; Hands are open, not closed
“4 Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform that had been made for the occasion. To his right stood Mattithiah …. To his left stood Pedaiah ... 5 Ezra stood on the platform in full view of all the people. When they saw him open the book, they all rose to their feet. 6 Then Ezra praised the Lord, the great God, and all the people chanted, “Amen! Amen!” as they lifted their hands. Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground” (Verses 4-6). These verses describe common worship practices among many Christians today. It helped the people in Nehemiah’s day engage in celebratory renewal, and it similarly helps us today. People stand out of respect for the Word of God at the reading of the Mosaic Law.
The Hebrew Word for “Praised or blessed the Lord” is often an action of kneeling as an act of adoration. This Hebrew mingles praise and thanksgiving. Blessing God is to speak well of God while remembering what God has done for you and thanking God,
The Hebrew word for Amen means faithfulness and truth of God that we can rely on based on understanding the Word of God. When a word is repeated in the Hebrew and other languages, it emphasizes the intensity of the response. For the Israelites at that time “Praise” and “Amen” go together. “Then all the people said “Amen” and “Praise the Lord” (1 Chronicles 16:36b).
The Hebrew word for hand specifies that the hand is open, not closed. A closed hand is a different Hebrew word. The open hand indicates strength, power, and the means to accomplish the directions from God because the hand is open to receive God’s presence and faithfulness.
Nehemiah 8:7-8 – As students of God’s Word, teach others for understanding
“7 The Levites—….then instructed the people in the Law while everyone remained in their places. 8 They read from the Book of the Law of God and clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage” (Verses 7-8). We have to become students of God's Word and apply what we learn to our lives to teach others. While in exile in Babylon, for many their only language was Aramaic. So teaching included facilitating the translation from the Hebrew scripture text to Aramaic.
Nehemiah 8:9-12 Convicted of sin do not be dejected, but celebrate the holy days with spiritual renewal
“9 Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, ‘Don’t mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the Lord your God.’ The people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.
10 And Nehemiah[b] continued, ‘Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!’
11 And the Levites, too, quieted the people, telling them, “Hush! Don’t weep! For this is a sacred day.” 12 So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them” (Verses 9-12).
Nehemiah at that time was the governor as deputy for the Persian King. The powerful presentation of God’s Word can bring deep conviction over sin. God offers repentance. Turning around in moving toward God must not degenerate into a self-centered remorse, but must have joy in God’s forgiving mercy. Recognition of sin should fuel our appreciation for the beauty and power of grace.
As they listened, they began to cry out loud because they had not obeyed God’s law. But Ezra and Nehemiah told them to stop crying! This day was a holy day of celebration! The people went away to eat and celebrate with great joy because they heard God's words and understood them. This included sharing with those who were less fortunate.
The people went away to eat and celebrate with great joy because they heard God's words and understood them. Sacrifices for the offerings point to Jesus Christ as our perfect sacrifice and our lives as sacrifices of praise and service (See Romans 12:1).
The Hebrew Word for “sacred or holy” means in relationship with God for Israelites in 445BC and also for us today. The people of Israel are holy by their relationship to the sacred holy God. “God intends to use the holy nation as a holy royal priesthood” (Exodus 19:6). This agrees with New Testament truth in 1 Peter 2:9-10 that we are a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. The concept of holy as separated is a derived meaning directed to some specific circumstances but not the primary meaning of the Hebrew word in Nehemiah 8: verses 9 and 11. Bottom line, the key to the holiness and sacredness of us and our days is in relationship with God.
Like the Israeli people listening to him, Ezra in the past had been dejected and sad. But Ezra after studying more of God’s Word encourages the people into a celebratory spiritual renewal. In the past, “for he (Ezra) was mourning over the faithlessness of the exiles (Ezra 10:6). Now, Ezra encourages celebrating spiritual renewal with great joy.
The joy of the Lord is our strength
The biblical principle applicable for the people in Nehemiah’s time and for us today is that when we have a spiritual renewal with celebration and joy, the Lord is our fortress, protection, and strength with power of God’s presence. There are two common Hebrew words for strength. In Nehemiah 8:10, this Hebrew word has the strongest emphatic meaning that means literally a fortress or fortified tower. This verse declares that the joy of the Lord is our fortress. There is another Hebrew word that has less strong meanings of protection and security. Together these two words occur 34 times in the Psalms, with an underlying sense of trusting in God.
Regarding our strength from trusting God, Theologian Professor Dr. Gary Chamberlain declares, “The psalmist often simply reiterate their need to commit their destiny to God and to allow the divine will to govern them, confident that God’s love and justice will determine every outcome. The sheer repetition of this need indicates that they knew such trust to be difficult. Repeatedly their prayer is that God will not abandon or shame those who do make God their refuge (for example, see Psalms 25:20).
Nehemiah 8:13-15 Leaders study God’s Word in greater detail in order to obey and then celebrate
“13 On October 9 the family leaders of all the people, together with the priests and Levites, met with Ezra the scribe to go over the Law in greater detail. 14 As they studied the Law, they discovered that the Lord had commanded through Moses that the Israelites should live in shelters during the festival to be held that month. 15 He had said that a proclamation should be made throughout their towns and in Jerusalem, telling the people to go to the hills to get branches from olive, wild olive,[e] myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees. They were to use these branches to make shelters in which they would live during the festival, as prescribed in the Law” (Verses 13-15).
The following day, October 9th, on the second day of the seventh month of the Jewish calendar, Jewish leaders, the priests and the Levites gathered with Ezra to go over the Mosaic Law in greater detail. They knew that in a few days would be the annual time for the Festival of Booths. This festival commemorated God’s care over their ancestors when they journeyed for 40 years in the wildness from Egypt to Canaan. They read the scripture carefully to make sure that how they were observing this Festival of Booths conformed to the Word of God. Detailed study of God’s Word is required that leads to celebration from transformation on the inside. Ignorance of the Law is no excuse for disobedience.
During this time, the Children of Israel were to leave their houses and dwell in “booths” or temporary shelters. By doing this, they recognized God’s provision for them. This was the same provision God had given to Moses and the Children of Israel when they were in the wilderness. In much the same way, God also had provided for the Israelites at the time of Nehemiah and Ezra when were taken from captivity and returned to their homeland. God is providing similarly for communities today.
Today, as we celebrate a spiritual renewal, we should let others know the news. Festival of Booths was to be celebrated by all of the people. In order to gather, there was a need to “publish” the news. In 485 BC, this was to be done in two ways. First, a shofar, or ram’s horn, was to be blown throughout the nation to proclaim the observance. Secondly, messengers were sent from household to household to ensure that everyone was made aware of the coming event.
Nehemiah 8:16-17 Obedience in living in booths made with branches helps celebrate spiritual renewal in God’s grace and mercy and remembering what God has done
“16 So the people went out and cut branches and used them to build shelters on the roofs of their houses, in their courtyards, in the courtyards of God’s Temple, or in the squares just inside the Water Gate and the Ephraim Gate. 17 So everyone who had returned from captivity lived in these shelters during the festival, and they were all filled with great joy! The Israelites had not celebrated like this since the days of Joshua[f] son of Nun” (Verses 16-17).
In their study of the Scripture they determined that they should live in temporary structures made from tree branches, not just in tents (mostly made with goat skins). Immediately, the Israelites revived the festival by making huts out of olive branches, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees and living in them for seven days. Like us today, they studied and understood more of God’s Word and were determined to obey God’s Word. Hearing and understanding God’s law helps to obey His Word.
The messengers also ensured that they gathered the materials for the celebration of God’s provision. The people complied with the directive to dwell in booths. There were so many people who had come out of captivity and were eager to be involved in proper worship of the Lord that those who owned homes created booths on their housetops or in the courtyards of their houses. Others placed their booths in the courtyards of the Temple or in the streets before one of the gates of the city. They were truly dancing in the streets!
Nehemiah 8:18 obedient understanding lead to celebration of God’s deliverance
“18 Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God on each of the seven days of the festival. Then on the eighth day they held a solemn assembly, as was required by Law” (Verse 18).
Although other celebrations are noted in the Old Testament Scriptures (Judges 21:19; 1 Samuel 1:3), the outpouring was greater than the Festival of Booths had been at any time since the days of Joshua when the nation had entered the Promised Land.
They not only complied with the Law, they were excited about the Law and the opportunity to celebrate God’s deliverance. Gladness permeated the entire event. There was intense joy. This was a solemn matter, but it was also a joyous occasion. The people had been delivered from captivity and were now free to share in worship, to rebuild with the celebrations of God’s Word and God’s mercy as they recommitted themselves to their covenant relationship with God. Like we should do, they rejoiced at what had been done in their lives and the lives of their ancestors.
The celebration of the Festival of Booths continued for the required seven days. Each day, Ezra read from the Book of the Law proclaiming the goodness of God. Each day they learned more about God’s Law. The more they learned, the more they rejoiced over hearing the Word of God. The more they learned, the greater was their assurance that God was able to strengthen them as God had repeatedly proven.
Today’s International Evangelical Application
As evangelicals, carefully pondering God’s Word, here is an example of obeying the words and life of Jesus in successful actions that bring celebratory spiritual renewal, “Chasing Hope.” Let us view this short video:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PnpYpuX7Rxlnlj419kYHFLPuOd1nWVwj/view?usp=sharing
Big Picture Conclusion
How soon we forget when we are delivered from trials and trouble. Today’s message teaches us that God is concerned about how we receive God’s blessings, deliverance, and restitution. The Festival of Booths was a joyous occasion, and God wanted the people to keep God at the center of attention. It lets us know that God wants God’s people to have a good time. As Christians, we can have joy and celebrate life while acknowledging God as the source of every good and perfect gift. However, great celebration should also be coupled with reverent honor of God and His holiness so that God is not taken for granted and our celebrations please Him. God’s Word should be at the forefront and incorporated into every celebration, not to display our self-righteousness, but with humility.
Let each of us read and hear the Word of God, pray, and teach for understanding just as Ezra and Jewish leaders did. Let's worship God with joy because when we hear the Word of God and obey, we are truly living and experiencing spiritual renewal!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS INCLUDING FAMILY GROUPS
Sermon Quick Summary
-Which of the 7 points of applying Nehemiah 8 to your life challenge you?
Nehemiah 7:73b- The Jewish Calendar Celebrations; God’s Heart for Justice
-How important is it that we today, like the Israelites at the time of Nehemiah and Ezra have common humanity of living in a fallen world?
-As Jesus modeled Words and His Life against injustices for oppressed people, why might injustices be a concern for the Israelites at the time of Nehemiah, as well as a current issue for us today?
Nehemiah 8:1 - People including women and children; living water; scribe as truth teller
-As Israelites at the time of Nehemiah assembled at the Water Gate, what metaphorical truths about water might they have had as used elsewhere in the Old Testament that facilitates their celebration of relationship with God?
Nehemiah 8:2-3- Priest is a teacher for understanding who can fall short, but Jesus is our great high priest
-Both the Israelite priests and Jesus are teachers that facilitate understanding. In what ways is our great high priest Jesus Christ superior to the Israelite priests?
Nehemiah 8:4-6 – Israelites and us today rise to feet at reading God’s Word; praise and blessings of worship ;go together; Amen repeated twice is intense declaration of truth; Hands are open, not closed
-Which of the worship practices at the time of Nehemiah and Ezra in Nehemiah 8:4-6 do you practice in your worship today that can facilitate celebrating spiritual renewal? Why?
Nehemiah 8:7-8 – As students of God’s Word, teach others for understanding
-Week after week, as we hear preaching and teaching, are we challenged to obey? Are we being transformed by what we hear, or are we leaving church on Sunday morning or spiritual groups without God's Word impacting how we live? What are the challenges and why?
Nehemiah 8:9-12 Convicted of sin do not be dejected, but celebrate the holy days with spiritual renewal
-In what ways have you changed from being dejected about conviction of sin to celebration of the grace and mercy of God in worship, praise, and spiritual renewal?
The joy of the Lord is our strength
-Since the joy of the Lord is our strength, why is it often difficult for us to trust in God with confidence that God’s love and justice will ultimately determine every outcome?
Nehemiah 8:13-15 Leaders study God’s Word in greater detail in order to obey and then celebrate
-Why is it important to be joyful even when we are convicted when we read or hear God's Word?
Nehemiah 8:16-17 Obedience in living in booths made with branches helps celebrate spiritual renewal in God’s grace and mercy and remembering what God has done
-How should we make proclamations to let others know about the celebrations of our spiritual renewal?
Nehemiah 8:18 obedient understanding lead to celebration of God’s deliverance
-When you have a celebration, is God invited? Would God be a welcomed guest? As you gather with family and friends, in what ways can you incorporate God in every aspect of your joyous occasion in a way that God would be glorified. Why would such celebrations be a great witness to unsaved family and friends?
Today’s International Evangelical Application
How does the evangelical lady exhibit trusting in God with joy?
Big Picture Conclusion
How do you celebrate as a believer in Jesus Christ?
We are continuing our mini-series, “Rise and Rebuild.” Wherever there is brokenness, including broken systems, relationships, or communities in this world, there is a need for repair and healing. Pastor Tammy Long has delivered three messages covering Nehemiah Chapters 1 through 4 in this Rise and Rebuild miniseries. Nehemiah was deeply troubled by the literal broken walls around Jerusalem, which left his people vulnerable, unprotected, and in disgrace. Brokenness in the fallen world needing repair and healing includes broken systems, relationships, or communities. He went to God in prayer with fasting and mourning. God gave him a vision. Nehemiah assessed the situation and mobilized the diverse community. Nehemiah faced opposition and internal struggles like fatigue and fear. Continual prayer and action in support of the vision got Nehemiah through it.
This message in the Rise and Rebuild miniseries is focused on Nehemiah Chapter 8. As recorded in Nehemiah 6:15-16, rebuilding the wall was finished and perceived by all as accomplished with the help of God. Nehemiah continued to mobilize the community guided by the vision from God. Here is a summary of 7 applications to our lives today of Nehemiah Chapter 8 that this message will explore. (1) Reading or hearing God’s Word with explanations to ensure understanding can be convicting with feelings of falling short. (2)Careful examination of God’s Word leads to obedience. (3) We may then engage in self-remorse or cry, but instead, God wants us to celebrate. (4) God directs us to spiritual renewal in our celebration. (5) Celebrations can be spiritual renewals if we have God as part of our celebrations. (6) The spiritual renewal will point out, transform us, and remind us about the attributes of God and what God has done to bless us, our ancestors, and God’s people. (7) The Hebrew language words convey truths that point to the Good News Gospel of Christ. These words in the Hebrew of the Old Testament facilitate obedient celebrations of the right relationship with God both for the Israelites in 845 BC and for us today. The Israelite's use of the Hebrew words translated town, people, water, scribe, priest, bless, amen, hand, holy, and strength in Nehemiah 8 facilitate obedience in embracing celebration for spiritual renewal in the joy of relationship with God. These are words celebrating the joy of God’s mercy and forgiveness as we remember what God has done for us, our ancestors, and God’s people. This is not self-absorbed condemnation based on our falling short, but joy in celebrating and trusting in Jesus Christ.
Let each of us read and hear the Word of God, pray, and teach for understanding just as Ezra and the Jewish leaders did. Let’s worship God with joy because when we hear the Word of God and obey, we are truly living and experiencing spiritual renewal.
Nehemiah 7:73b- The Jewish Calendar Celebrations; God’s Heart for Justice
October is a spiritual holiday season that God intended to be celebrated with spiritual renewal and town could have figurative walls from unequal injustices on the oppressed.
“In October, when the Israelites had settled in their towns,” (Nehemiah 7:73b). October 8, 445 BC is the first day of the seventh month on the Jewish calendar. The narrative recounted in Chapter 8 verses 1-12 took place on the first day of the seventh month when Jews are scheduled to celebrate the Feast of Trumpets, involving Sabbath Rest, blowing of trumpets, and a holy convocation. This annual festival was followed by great rejoicing in a seven day annual celebration of spiritual renewal known as The Festival of Booths. Ezra’s readings were observations of the Israelites’ wilderness exile and the giving of the Law during the exit from slavery in Egypt, which the people celebrated joyously, followed by solemn contemplation.
The Hebrew Word for “town” can be a separate unequal section of town (like a “hood” or “ghetto”). The Hebrew word was used for a portion of a city, with or without walls, but, it could have figurative walls, like injustices from segregation. When we refer to a town or city today, we know there are often metaphorical walls from segregation and inequalities between sections of the town. Like we experience in our daily life today, in 445 BC, sections of town had injustices from also living in a fallen world. This use of town is pointing to the Words and Life of Jesus as our model. God requires caring for poor as modeled by Jesus (See Luke 14:18) for justice to set at liberty those who are oppressed.
Nehemiah 8:1 - People including women and children; living water; scribe as truth teller
“1 And all the people assembled with a unified purpose at the square just inside the Water Gate. They asked Ezra the scribe to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had given for Israel to obey (Nehemiah 8:1). The Persian King Artaxerxes had appointed Ezra as scribe to teach God’s Law and the laws of the King. The fact that the people asked Ezra to read the Mosaic Law shows that they were familiar with these public readings. The first day of the seventh month was only a few days since rebuilding the wall was completed on the 25th day of the sixth month (Ezra 6:15).
Even in this patriarchal society, the word translated peoples include all of Israel, including women and children able to understand. As directed by scripture, women and children joined the men for these solemn occasions (See Deuteronomy 31:12, Joshua 8:35, and 2 Kings 23:2). The Israelites used this word to refer to the Israeli community as the holy, special people of God. They used this Hebrew word for them to remember that God had rescued them from slavery to Pharoah, who set himself up as a rival god. They understood this Hebrew word to represent God’s presence that gave their identity as the community of Israel. We remember what God has done for us.
The Hebrew Word for “Water” in its figurative truth facilitates celebration and spiritual renewal in a dry place or still waters of peace. The Water Gate led to the Gihon spring for physical essentials. The Israelites were also using this word with a meaning like what followers of Christ use as living water. For example, “And a man shall be as a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers in water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land” (Isaiah 32:2). This Hebrew word for water is used in the 23rd Psalm. Rest and peace are accompanied by waters of rest or quiet waters. “God leads me besides the still waters (Psalm 23:2). So the meeting at the Water Gate brings thoughts of spiritual renewal in 845 BC and for us today as God providing waters in a dry place or still waters of peace.
The Hebrew Word for “Scribe” in intensive form in presenting truth leads into a spiritual celebration, not condemnation. Labeling Ezra as a scribe emphasizes a listing or enumeration of the truth. For example, “And Moses said (to Aaron and Levites), ‘this is the thing that the Lord commanded you to do, that the glory of the Lord may appear to you’” (Leviticus 9:6).
Nehemiah 8:2-3- Priest is a teacher for understanding who can fall short, but Jesus is our great high priest
“2 So on October 8 Ezra the priest brought the Book of the Law before the assembly, which included the men and women and all the children old enough to understand. 3 He faced the square just inside the Water Gate from early morning until noon and read aloud to everyone who could understand. All the people listened closely to the Book of the Law.” (Nehemiah 8:2-3). Ezra, the priest, was reading the Law, and the Levites and priests explained what Ezra read to make sure everyone understood what they heard. The public reading would have included the celebration of the Feast of Trumpets celebrated that day annually. But much moral instruction from other parts of the Mosaic Law would have been also publically read as the people stood for about five hours listening to the scriptures.
This Hebrew word for priest was used for those who act as teachers Mosaic Law. There are many scriptural examples of priests and Levites assigned to teach the Mosaic Law. Aaron was a priest assigned over Israel, and sometimes like other priests and Levites he fell short (For example, see Micah 2:8). Our spiritual renewal is enhanced because Jesus is our great high priest who gives us understanding through His words and life, without spot or blemish, unique and eternal.
Nehemiah 8:4-6 – Israelites and us today rise to feet at reading God’s Word; praise and blessings of worship go together; Amen is intense declaration of truth; Hands are open, not closed
“4 Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform that had been made for the occasion. To his right stood Mattithiah …. To his left stood Pedaiah ... 5 Ezra stood on the platform in full view of all the people. When they saw him open the book, they all rose to their feet. 6 Then Ezra praised the Lord, the great God, and all the people chanted, “Amen! Amen!” as they lifted their hands. Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground” (Verses 4-6). These verses describe common worship practices among many Christians today. It helped the people in Nehemiah’s day engage in celebratory renewal, and it similarly helps us today. People stand out of respect for the Word of God at the reading of the Mosaic Law.
The Hebrew Word for “Praised or blessed the Lord” is often an action of kneeling as an act of adoration. This Hebrew mingles praise and thanksgiving. Blessing God is to speak well of God while remembering what God has done for you and thanking God,
The Hebrew word for Amen means faithfulness and truth of God that we can rely on based on understanding the Word of God. When a word is repeated in the Hebrew and other languages, it emphasizes the intensity of the response. For the Israelites at that time “Praise” and “Amen” go together. “Then all the people said “Amen” and “Praise the Lord” (1 Chronicles 16:36b).
The Hebrew word for hand specifies that the hand is open, not closed. A closed hand is a different Hebrew word. The open hand indicates strength, power, and the means to accomplish the directions from God because the hand is open to receive God’s presence and faithfulness.
Nehemiah 8:7-8 – As students of God’s Word, teach others for understanding
“7 The Levites—….then instructed the people in the Law while everyone remained in their places. 8 They read from the Book of the Law of God and clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage” (Verses 7-8). We have to become students of God's Word and apply what we learn to our lives to teach others. While in exile in Babylon, for many their only language was Aramaic. So teaching included facilitating the translation from the Hebrew scripture text to Aramaic.
Nehemiah 8:9-12 Convicted of sin do not be dejected, but celebrate the holy days with spiritual renewal
“9 Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, ‘Don’t mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the Lord your God.’ The people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.
10 And Nehemiah[b] continued, ‘Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!’
11 And the Levites, too, quieted the people, telling them, “Hush! Don’t weep! For this is a sacred day.” 12 So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them” (Verses 9-12).
Nehemiah at that time was the governor as deputy for the Persian King. The powerful presentation of God’s Word can bring deep conviction over sin. God offers repentance. Turning around in moving toward God must not degenerate into a self-centered remorse, but must have joy in God’s forgiving mercy. Recognition of sin should fuel our appreciation for the beauty and power of grace.
As they listened, they began to cry out loud because they had not obeyed God’s law. But Ezra and Nehemiah told them to stop crying! This day was a holy day of celebration! The people went away to eat and celebrate with great joy because they heard God's words and understood them. This included sharing with those who were less fortunate.
The people went away to eat and celebrate with great joy because they heard God's words and understood them. Sacrifices for the offerings point to Jesus Christ as our perfect sacrifice and our lives as sacrifices of praise and service (See Romans 12:1).
The Hebrew Word for “sacred or holy” means in relationship with God for Israelites in 445BC and also for us today. The people of Israel are holy by their relationship to the sacred holy God. “God intends to use the holy nation as a holy royal priesthood” (Exodus 19:6). This agrees with New Testament truth in 1 Peter 2:9-10 that we are a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. The concept of holy as separated is a derived meaning directed to some specific circumstances but not the primary meaning of the Hebrew word in Nehemiah 8: verses 9 and 11. Bottom line, the key to the holiness and sacredness of us and our days is in relationship with God.
Like the Israeli people listening to him, Ezra in the past had been dejected and sad. But Ezra after studying more of God’s Word encourages the people into a celebratory spiritual renewal. In the past, “for he (Ezra) was mourning over the faithlessness of the exiles (Ezra 10:6). Now, Ezra encourages celebrating spiritual renewal with great joy.
The joy of the Lord is our strength
The biblical principle applicable for the people in Nehemiah’s time and for us today is that when we have a spiritual renewal with celebration and joy, the Lord is our fortress, protection, and strength with power of God’s presence. There are two common Hebrew words for strength. In Nehemiah 8:10, this Hebrew word has the strongest emphatic meaning that means literally a fortress or fortified tower. This verse declares that the joy of the Lord is our fortress. There is another Hebrew word that has less strong meanings of protection and security. Together these two words occur 34 times in the Psalms, with an underlying sense of trusting in God.
Regarding our strength from trusting God, Theologian Professor Dr. Gary Chamberlain declares, “The psalmist often simply reiterate their need to commit their destiny to God and to allow the divine will to govern them, confident that God’s love and justice will determine every outcome. The sheer repetition of this need indicates that they knew such trust to be difficult. Repeatedly their prayer is that God will not abandon or shame those who do make God their refuge (for example, see Psalms 25:20).
Nehemiah 8:13-15 Leaders study God’s Word in greater detail in order to obey and then celebrate
“13 On October 9 the family leaders of all the people, together with the priests and Levites, met with Ezra the scribe to go over the Law in greater detail. 14 As they studied the Law, they discovered that the Lord had commanded through Moses that the Israelites should live in shelters during the festival to be held that month. 15 He had said that a proclamation should be made throughout their towns and in Jerusalem, telling the people to go to the hills to get branches from olive, wild olive,[e] myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees. They were to use these branches to make shelters in which they would live during the festival, as prescribed in the Law” (Verses 13-15).
The following day, October 9th, on the second day of the seventh month of the Jewish calendar, Jewish leaders, the priests and the Levites gathered with Ezra to go over the Mosaic Law in greater detail. They knew that in a few days would be the annual time for the Festival of Booths. This festival commemorated God’s care over their ancestors when they journeyed for 40 years in the wildness from Egypt to Canaan. They read the scripture carefully to make sure that how they were observing this Festival of Booths conformed to the Word of God. Detailed study of God’s Word is required that leads to celebration from transformation on the inside. Ignorance of the Law is no excuse for disobedience.
During this time, the Children of Israel were to leave their houses and dwell in “booths” or temporary shelters. By doing this, they recognized God’s provision for them. This was the same provision God had given to Moses and the Children of Israel when they were in the wilderness. In much the same way, God also had provided for the Israelites at the time of Nehemiah and Ezra when were taken from captivity and returned to their homeland. God is providing similarly for communities today.
Today, as we celebrate a spiritual renewal, we should let others know the news. Festival of Booths was to be celebrated by all of the people. In order to gather, there was a need to “publish” the news. In 485 BC, this was to be done in two ways. First, a shofar, or ram’s horn, was to be blown throughout the nation to proclaim the observance. Secondly, messengers were sent from household to household to ensure that everyone was made aware of the coming event.
Nehemiah 8:16-17 Obedience in living in booths made with branches helps celebrate spiritual renewal in God’s grace and mercy and remembering what God has done
“16 So the people went out and cut branches and used them to build shelters on the roofs of their houses, in their courtyards, in the courtyards of God’s Temple, or in the squares just inside the Water Gate and the Ephraim Gate. 17 So everyone who had returned from captivity lived in these shelters during the festival, and they were all filled with great joy! The Israelites had not celebrated like this since the days of Joshua[f] son of Nun” (Verses 16-17).
In their study of the Scripture they determined that they should live in temporary structures made from tree branches, not just in tents (mostly made with goat skins). Immediately, the Israelites revived the festival by making huts out of olive branches, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees and living in them for seven days. Like us today, they studied and understood more of God’s Word and were determined to obey God’s Word. Hearing and understanding God’s law helps to obey His Word.
The messengers also ensured that they gathered the materials for the celebration of God’s provision. The people complied with the directive to dwell in booths. There were so many people who had come out of captivity and were eager to be involved in proper worship of the Lord that those who owned homes created booths on their housetops or in the courtyards of their houses. Others placed their booths in the courtyards of the Temple or in the streets before one of the gates of the city. They were truly dancing in the streets!
Nehemiah 8:18 obedient understanding lead to celebration of God’s deliverance
“18 Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God on each of the seven days of the festival. Then on the eighth day they held a solemn assembly, as was required by Law” (Verse 18).
Although other celebrations are noted in the Old Testament Scriptures (Judges 21:19; 1 Samuel 1:3), the outpouring was greater than the Festival of Booths had been at any time since the days of Joshua when the nation had entered the Promised Land.
They not only complied with the Law, they were excited about the Law and the opportunity to celebrate God’s deliverance. Gladness permeated the entire event. There was intense joy. This was a solemn matter, but it was also a joyous occasion. The people had been delivered from captivity and were now free to share in worship, to rebuild with the celebrations of God’s Word and God’s mercy as they recommitted themselves to their covenant relationship with God. Like we should do, they rejoiced at what had been done in their lives and the lives of their ancestors.
The celebration of the Festival of Booths continued for the required seven days. Each day, Ezra read from the Book of the Law proclaiming the goodness of God. Each day they learned more about God’s Law. The more they learned, the more they rejoiced over hearing the Word of God. The more they learned, the greater was their assurance that God was able to strengthen them as God had repeatedly proven.
Today’s International Evangelical Application
As evangelicals, carefully pondering God’s Word, here is an example of obeying the words and life of Jesus in successful actions that bring celebratory spiritual renewal, “Chasing Hope.” Let us view this short video:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PnpYpuX7Rxlnlj419kYHFLPuOd1nWVwj/view?usp=sharing
Big Picture Conclusion
How soon we forget when we are delivered from trials and trouble. Today’s message teaches us that God is concerned about how we receive God’s blessings, deliverance, and restitution. The Festival of Booths was a joyous occasion, and God wanted the people to keep God at the center of attention. It lets us know that God wants God’s people to have a good time. As Christians, we can have joy and celebrate life while acknowledging God as the source of every good and perfect gift. However, great celebration should also be coupled with reverent honor of God and His holiness so that God is not taken for granted and our celebrations please Him. God’s Word should be at the forefront and incorporated into every celebration, not to display our self-righteousness, but with humility.
Let each of us read and hear the Word of God, pray, and teach for understanding just as Ezra and Jewish leaders did. Let's worship God with joy because when we hear the Word of God and obey, we are truly living and experiencing spiritual renewal!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS INCLUDING FAMILY GROUPS
Sermon Quick Summary
-Which of the 7 points of applying Nehemiah 8 to your life challenge you?
Nehemiah 7:73b- The Jewish Calendar Celebrations; God’s Heart for Justice
-How important is it that we today, like the Israelites at the time of Nehemiah and Ezra have common humanity of living in a fallen world?
-As Jesus modeled Words and His Life against injustices for oppressed people, why might injustices be a concern for the Israelites at the time of Nehemiah, as well as a current issue for us today?
Nehemiah 8:1 - People including women and children; living water; scribe as truth teller
-As Israelites at the time of Nehemiah assembled at the Water Gate, what metaphorical truths about water might they have had as used elsewhere in the Old Testament that facilitates their celebration of relationship with God?
Nehemiah 8:2-3- Priest is a teacher for understanding who can fall short, but Jesus is our great high priest
-Both the Israelite priests and Jesus are teachers that facilitate understanding. In what ways is our great high priest Jesus Christ superior to the Israelite priests?
Nehemiah 8:4-6 – Israelites and us today rise to feet at reading God’s Word; praise and blessings of worship ;go together; Amen repeated twice is intense declaration of truth; Hands are open, not closed
-Which of the worship practices at the time of Nehemiah and Ezra in Nehemiah 8:4-6 do you practice in your worship today that can facilitate celebrating spiritual renewal? Why?
Nehemiah 8:7-8 – As students of God’s Word, teach others for understanding
-Week after week, as we hear preaching and teaching, are we challenged to obey? Are we being transformed by what we hear, or are we leaving church on Sunday morning or spiritual groups without God's Word impacting how we live? What are the challenges and why?
Nehemiah 8:9-12 Convicted of sin do not be dejected, but celebrate the holy days with spiritual renewal
-In what ways have you changed from being dejected about conviction of sin to celebration of the grace and mercy of God in worship, praise, and spiritual renewal?
The joy of the Lord is our strength
-Since the joy of the Lord is our strength, why is it often difficult for us to trust in God with confidence that God’s love and justice will ultimately determine every outcome?
Nehemiah 8:13-15 Leaders study God’s Word in greater detail in order to obey and then celebrate
-Why is it important to be joyful even when we are convicted when we read or hear God's Word?
Nehemiah 8:16-17 Obedience in living in booths made with branches helps celebrate spiritual renewal in God’s grace and mercy and remembering what God has done
-How should we make proclamations to let others know about the celebrations of our spiritual renewal?
Nehemiah 8:18 obedient understanding lead to celebration of God’s deliverance
-When you have a celebration, is God invited? Would God be a welcomed guest? As you gather with family and friends, in what ways can you incorporate God in every aspect of your joyous occasion in a way that God would be glorified. Why would such celebrations be a great witness to unsaved family and friends?
Today’s International Evangelical Application
How does the evangelical lady exhibit trusting in God with joy?
Big Picture Conclusion
How do you celebrate as a believer in Jesus Christ?
Sermon Resources
Posted in Rise & Rebuild
Posted in Rise and Rebuild, Celebration, Spiritual Renewal, convict, fall short, remourse, cry, celebrate, bless, truth point to Gospel, town, people, water, scribe, priest, amen, hand, holy, sacred, fortress, strength, Festival of Booths, Feast of Trumpets
Posted in Rise and Rebuild, Celebration, Spiritual Renewal, convict, fall short, remourse, cry, celebrate, bless, truth point to Gospel, town, people, water, scribe, priest, amen, hand, holy, sacred, fortress, strength, Festival of Booths, Feast of Trumpets
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