1. NehemiahThe governor of Jerusalem who rebuilt the city walls after the exile More Returns and Rebuilds the Walls (Nehemiah 1:1–7:73a)
Upon hearing of the ruinous state of Jerusalem, Nehemiah returns to the city with the intention of rebuilding it. This is accomplished despite the opposition of the surrounding peoples.
A. Nehemiah and His Mission (Nehemiah 1:1–2:10)
Like the returns and missions of ZerubbabelThe governor of Judah who helped rebuild the Temple after the exile More (EzraScribe who helped establish Jewish practices in Jerusalem after the exile. More 1-6) and Ezra (Ezra 7-10), Nehemiah’s return and mission are authorized by the Persian king.
B. Nehemiah Supervises the Rebuilding (Nehemiah 2:11–7:73a)
Nehemiah’s mission is to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which is accomplished despite the opposition of the surrounding peoples.
2. Ezra and the Law (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 law is read.
A. Ezra Instructs the People (Nehemiah 7:73b–8:18)
Ezra reads from the law and teaches the people in two public assemblies.
B. The People Respond (Nehemiah 9:1–10:39)
After hearing the law in a third public assembly, the people 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.
