Nehemiah 2:20

So I answered them and said, "The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success. We, His servants, will start rebuilding, but you have no portion, right, or claim in Jerusalem."

Study Bible

So I answered them and said
Nehemiah responds to opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, who mocked and ridiculed the Jews' efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. This response demonstrates Nehemiah's leadership and confidence in God's plan. His answer is direct and authoritative, reflecting his role as a leader appointed by God and the Persian king.

The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success
Nehemiah attributes success to God, emphasizing divine sovereignty and providence. This phrase reflects the biblical theme that true success comes from God (Psalm 127:1). It also highlights Nehemiah's faith and reliance on God rather than human strength or political alliances. The title "God of heaven" underscores God's supreme authority over all earthly matters.

We, His servants, will start rebuilding
Nehemiah identifies himself and the Jewish people as God's servants, indicating their dedication and commitment to God's work. This phrase shows the collective effort and unity among the Jews in rebuilding Jerusalem. It also reflects the biblical principle of serving God through action and obedience (James 2:17).

but you have no portion, right, or claim in Jerusalem
Nehemiah asserts that the opponents have no legitimate stake in Jerusalem. This statement is rooted in the historical and covenantal context, where Jerusalem is the city chosen by God for His people (2 Chronicles 6:6). The phrase "portion, right, or claim" indicates legal and spiritual exclusion, emphasizing that the opponents are outside God's covenant community. This exclusion also foreshadows the New Testament theme of the church as the new Jerusalem, where only those in Christ have a rightful place (Galatians 4:26).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
A Jewish cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, who becomes a leader in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls.

2. Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem
Opponents of Nehemiah who mock and attempt to thwart the rebuilding efforts.

3. Jerusalem
The city of God, whose walls Nehemiah is determined to rebuild to restore its former glory and protect its inhabitants.

4. The God of Heaven
The sovereign deity whom Nehemiah invokes as the source of success and authority for the rebuilding project.

5. Rebuilding of Jerusalem's Walls
A significant event symbolizing the restoration of the Jewish community and their covenant relationship with God.

Teaching Points

Confidence in God's Sovereignty
Nehemiah's response demonstrates unwavering faith in God's ability to bring success. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty over their endeavors.

Courage in the Face of Opposition
Nehemiah boldly confronts his adversaries, showing that faith in God empowers believers to stand firm against opposition.

Identity and Belonging
Nehemiah's declaration that his opponents have no share in Jerusalem highlights the importance of understanding one's identity and belonging in God's plan.

Commitment to God's Work
Nehemiah's determination to rebuild despite challenges serves as a model for believers to remain committed to God's work, trusting in His provision and guidance.

Exclusivity of God's People
The statement about having no share in Jerusalem underscores the distinct identity and calling of God's people, reminding believers of their unique role in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's confidence in "The God of heaven" challenge or encourage your own faith in God's ability to bring success in your life?

2. In what ways can you relate to Nehemiah's experience of facing opposition while trying to fulfill God's calling? How can you apply his response to your situation?

3. What does Nehemiah's declaration about having "no share, no right, and no historic claim in Jerusalem" teach us about the importance of identity and belonging in God's kingdom?

4. How can the account of Nehemiah inspire you to remain committed to God's work despite challenges or opposition?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to stand firm in your faith against opposition. How did you see God's sovereignty and protection at work in that situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4
Provides context on the opposition faced by the Jews during the rebuilding of the temple, similar to the opposition Nehemiah faces.

Philippians 1:6
Relates to the confidence in God's ability to complete the good work He begins, similar to Nehemiah's confidence in God's success.

Psalm 127:1
Emphasizes that unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain, paralleling Nehemiah's reliance on God for success.

Isaiah 54:17
Speaks to the protection and vindication of God's servants, akin to Nehemiah's assurance against his adversaries.