Responding to Opposition (Nehemiah 4) - 7/20/22

Opposition is coming

• It is normal (because of who we are)

• Expect it

• Prepare for it

Matthew 5:10-12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (ESV)

The Tactics of the Enemy

They ridiculed – vv. 1-6

• Feeble Jews

• 1 Cor 1:18-31

They intimidated and threatened – vv. 7-9

• Psalm 2:1-2

• The Apostles and the early church – Acts 4

The Response of God’s People

Nehemiah responded (Godly leaders pray and plan)

There is a practical plan: WHAT WE CAN DO

• Posted guards – v. 9

• Armed the people – v. 13

• Arranged them into family groups – v. 13

• Kept working (even harder) – v.21

There is a spiritual plan: WHAT GOD DOES

• Pray – v. 9

• Remember the mission – v. 14

• Trust God – v. 20

Conclusion

• 1 John 5:3–5 – For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (ESV)

• Acts 4:31-37 – Whatever it takes attitude