King James Version

Book of Nehemiah

AUTHOR: Nehemiah. DATE: 5th century BC. CONTENT: The book of Nehemiah continues the story begun by Ezra and deals with life in the restored community. The major point of Ezra is the rededication of the Temple: the major point of Nehemiah is the rebuilding of the city walls of Jerusalem. The book begins by explaining the need Jerusalem had for the protection that the walls would give. This is followed by a discussion of how the walls were built in spite of numerous problems both in the community and outside of it. A national day of repentance was called and the project was completed. THEME: The main theme of this book is the sad fact that people are slow to learn the lessons God wants to teach them. The Israelites had been carried into captivity because of sin, but now the very same problems arose again. The people were neglecting worship, prayer, and the Bible study, not to mention the fact that they were treating each other unjustly. But God in his patience continues to send messengers to them to offer salvation and pardon.