Nehemiah 6:10

Later, I went to the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabel, who was confined to his house. He said: "Let us meet at the house of God inside the temple. Let us shut the temple doors because they are coming to kill you--by night they are coming to kill you!"

Study Bible

Later, I went to the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabel, who was confined to his house.
Shemaiah's confinement may suggest illness or ritual impurity, but it is more likely a strategic move to create an air of urgency and secrecy. The genealogy provided emphasizes the importance of lineage in Jewish culture, often used to establish credibility or authority. The mention of Shemaiah's confinement could also imply a sense of isolation, possibly hinting at his involvement in a conspiracy against Nehemiah. This setting underscores the tension and danger Nehemiah faced during the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.

He said: “Let us meet at the house of God inside the temple.
The suggestion to meet in the temple is significant, as the temple was considered a sacred and secure place. However, Nehemiah, not being a priest, would have been violating the law by entering the temple's inner sanctum. This proposal tests Nehemiah's integrity and knowledge of the law, as only priests were allowed in certain areas of the temple (Numbers 18:7). The temple's mention highlights its central role in Jewish life and worship, serving as a place of refuge and divine presence.

Let us shut the temple doors because they are coming to kill you—
The advice to shut the temple doors implies a sense of immediate threat and urgency. This tactic is meant to instill fear in Nehemiah, pushing him to act against his principles. The temple doors symbolize protection and sanctuary, yet the suggestion to close them for personal safety rather than worship or reverence reveals the manipulative intent behind Shemaiah's counsel. This reflects the broader theme of opposition Nehemiah faced from external and internal enemies during his mission.

by night they are coming to kill you!”
The emphasis on an attack "by night" plays on the fear of the unknown and the vulnerability associated with darkness. Nighttime was often associated with danger and evil in biblical literature (John 3:19-20). This warning is designed to create panic and prompt Nehemiah to act irrationally. Nehemiah's discernment in recognizing the deceitful nature of this warning demonstrates his reliance on God for wisdom and protection, aligning with the biblical theme of trusting in God's providence over human schemes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah is a Jewish leader who is instrumental in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He is known for his strong leadership and faithfulness to God.

2. Shemaiah
A man who attempts to deceive Nehemiah by suggesting he hide in the temple. His actions reveal a plot against Nehemiah.

3. Delaiah and Mehetabel
Ancestors of Shemaiah, mentioned to establish his lineage.

4. The Temple
The sacred place in Jerusalem where Shemaiah suggests Nehemiah should hide. It symbolizes God's presence and holiness.

5. The Plot
A scheme to discredit Nehemiah by making him act out of fear, thus undermining his leadership and faith.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Leadership
Nehemiah demonstrates the importance of discernment, especially when facing deception. Leaders must seek God's wisdom to recognize and resist false counsel.

Courage in the Face of Fear
Nehemiah's refusal to hide in the temple shows his courage and trust in God. Believers are called to stand firm in faith, even when threatened.

Integrity and Faithfulness
Nehemiah's actions reflect his integrity and commitment to God's work. Christians should strive to maintain integrity, even when tempted to compromise.

The Role of Prayer
Throughout Nehemiah, prayer is a key element of his leadership. Believers should prioritize prayer in seeking guidance and strength.

Trust in God's Protection
Nehemiah's confidence in God's protection is a reminder that God is our ultimate refuge and strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's response to Shemaiah's suggestion demonstrate his discernment and trust in God?

2. In what ways can we apply Nehemiah's courage in our own lives when facing fear or intimidation?

3. How does Nehemiah's integrity in this situation challenge us to maintain our own integrity in difficult circumstances?

4. What role does prayer play in Nehemiah's decision-making process, and how can we incorporate similar practices in our lives?

5. How do the additional scriptures (Psalm 27:1, Proverbs 29:25, 2 Timothy 1:7) reinforce the themes found in Nehemiah 6:10, and how can they encourage us in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 27:1
This verse speaks of the Lord as a light and salvation, emphasizing that there is no need to fear. It connects to Nehemiah's refusal to hide in fear.

Proverbs 29:25
This proverb warns that fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. It relates to Nehemiah's trust in God over the fear of his enemies.

2 Timothy 1:7
This verse speaks of God giving a spirit not of fear but of power, love, and self-discipline, which aligns with Nehemiah's response to the threat.