The Problem: Abraham's people were scattered. In 1&2 Kings we see how God's people had fallen into idolatry and worshiped God among or alongside other gods, instead of worshiping God alone. Jerusalem was destroyed in the defeat of Judah (587 B.C.) The temple of Solomon was torn down, and the people were taken into captivity in Babylon. Persia defeats the Babylonian empire. In 539 B.C., about 50 years after the Babylonian exile, King Cyrus allowed the people of Judah to return, and some do. The people return but it takes them until 516 B.C. to finally rebuild the Temple. But the city is still in desolation and its people are demoralized. In 445 B.C. things were largely the same and the people in Jerusalem are harassed by others in the lands and the city and walls are still in ruins. But this is when Nehemiah gets a report on what is happening in Jerusalem.

Nehemiah leads more of the Hebrew people out of Persia and back to Jerusalem, to rebuild the city walls, the city, and most importantly to build the people into a congregation of those who worship God.  The problem is now the “Solutionist” among them. What is a “Solutionist”? Come along on a five-week journey through the book of Nehemiah to find out starting on August 6th!  See you in the Sanctuary!!!

Peace,

Burt