1. Third Return (under Nehemiah) and Reconstruction of the City Walls (Nehemiah 1:1–7:73a)
Upon hearing of the ruinous state of Jerusalem, Nehemiah returns to the city intending to rebuild it. This is accomplished despite opposition from neighboring peoples.
A. Nehemiah and His Mission (Nehemiah 1:1–2:10)
Like the first two returns and missions – of Zerubbabel (Ezra 1-6) and Ezra (Ezra 7-10), Nehemiah’s return and mission are authorized by the Persian king.
B. Nehemiah Supervises the Reconstruction (Nehemiah 2:11–7:73a)
Nehemiah’s mission was to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which was accomplished despite opposition from the surrounding peoples.
2. Ezra and the TorahThe Torah is the law of Moses, also known as the first five books of the Bible. To many the Torah is a combination of history, theology, and a legal or ritual guide. More (Nehemiah 7:73b–10:39)
Ezra leads a covenantA covenant is a promise or agreement. In the Bible the promises made between God and God’s people are known as covenants; they state or imply a relationship of commitment and obedience. More renewal ceremony in which the Torah (Law) is read.
A. Ezra Instructs the People (Nehemiah 7:73b–8:18)
Ezra reads from the Torah and teaches the people in two public assemblies.
B. The People Respond (Nehemiah 9:1–10:39)
After hearing the Torah, the people, in a third public assembly, respond with worship, prayer, and confession.
3. Nehemiah’s Work Continues (Nehemiah 11:1–13:31)
After a census reveals the underpopulation of Jerusalem, families are chosen to live within the city’s walls, and the people celebrate with worship. Nehemiah concludes with a brief description of reforms during his second term as governor.
A. Jerusalem Repopulated (Nehemiah 11:1–12:26)
Since Jerusalem can only hold one-tenth of the returning exiles, Nehemiah has the people cast lots to determine who should live in the city.
B. Joyful Dedication (Nehemiah 12:27-43)
The exuberant ceremony of the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem forms the climax of Nehemiah’s mission.
C. Nehemiah’s Final Reforms (Nehemiah 12:44–13:31)
The story of Nehemiah concludes with Nehemiah correcting a series of abuses during a second term as governor.
