Renewing the Covenant Neh 8:1-3, 5-6, 13-14, SS Lesson for 05/25/08

Transcription

1 Renewing the Covenant Neh 8:1-3, 5-6, 13-14, SS Lesson for 05/25/08 Devotional Scripture: Mal 3:7-18 OUTLINE INTRODUCTION OVERVIEW AND APPROACH TO LESSON LESSON INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND From the NIV Standard Lesson Commentary From the Bible Expositor and Illuminator MAJOR THEME ANALYSIS READING THE COVENANT (NEH 8:1-3) Assembling together (1) Assembled because the Day of the Lord is approaching (Heb 10:25) Assembled because God will be in the midst (Matt 18:20) Assembled because of the fellowship (Acts 20:7-8) Assembled because it is a custom (Luke 4:16-17) Assembled to reason about the Scriptures (Acts 17:1-4) Attentiveness to hear God's Word (2) Attentiveness because of the desire to learn (Luke 19:47-48) Attentiveness to determine the truth (Acts 17:11) Attentiveness to keep from drifting away from the faith (Heb 2:1) Attentiveness because of trying to get an understanding (Matt 13:23) Hearing and Knowing (From the NIV Standard Lesson Commentary) Getting an understanding (3) Understanding through the teaching of the Holy Spirit (Prov 9:9-10) Understanding through wisdom (Prov 3:13) Understanding so that we will not be stubborn (Ps 32:9) Understanding through meditation of our hearts (Ps 49:3) Understanding so that we are obedient to God's Word (Ps 119:34) Understanding so that we can grow into maturity (1 Cor 14:20) Understanding that comes from God (2 Tim 2:7) Understanding that is shown through good conduct (James 3:13) REACTION TO THE COVENANT (NEH 8:5-6) Standing to respect God's word (5) Commentary from Barnes' Notes Commentary from Keil & Delitzsch Commentary from Adam Clarke Commentary from Matthew Henry Agree in unity (6) Definition of "Amen" (from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary) Amen is to request that God makes it so (Jer 28:6) Amen is to understand and agree (1 Cor 14:16) Amen is to say "So be it" (Num 5:18-22) Praising and worshipping of God (6) Praise and worship because God is our God (Ps 95:6-7) Personal Commentary - Preparation for Worship Praise and worship because God is worthy (Rev 5:1-9) REQUIREMENTS OF THE COVENANT (NEH 8:13-14) Leader's insight into God's Word (13) God gives His Holy Spirit so that we may have understanding (1 Cor 2:12) Insight from God brings discernment (Phil 1:9-10) Renewing the Covenant Page 1 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

2 Insight through examining the Scriptures daily to search for truth (Acts 17:11) Insight from meditation on God's Word (Ps 119:99) Always seek spiritual insight and understanding (Prov 2:1-5) Examples and need for obedience (14) The Biblical writers were led to write examples for other's benefit (1 Cor 10:6, 11) Obedience to God proves our love of Him (John 14:21) Jesus was the perfect example of obedience (Heb 5:7-9) Obedience brings blessings (James 1:25) Obedience leads to righteousness (Rom 6:16) Obedience that is better than sacrifices (1 Sam 15:22) Explanation of Booths From Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary From International Standard Bible Encyclopedia From NIV Standard Lesson Commentary RESTORATION OF THE COVENANT (NEH 8:17-18) Restoration of joy (17) Joy of the righteous (Ps 68:3) Joy in worship (Ps 100:2) Joy even in trials (Hab 3:17-19) Joy in fasts (Zech 8:19) Joy in hope (Rom 12:10-12) Restoration of commitment (18) Commitment to cling to what is good (Rom 12:9) Commitment of faith (1 Tim 1:5) Commitment to draw near to God (Heb 10:22) Commitment to the wisdom of God (James 3:17) Commitment to please God (Heb 11:5-6) Commitment to trust in God (Ps 37:5-6) CONCLUSION AND OTHER THOUGHTS CONCLUDING THOUGHTS FROM THE NIV STANDARD LESSON COMMENTARY CONCLUDING THOUGHTS FROM THE BIBLE EXPOSITOR AND ILLUMINATOR PRACTICAL POINTS FROM THE BIBLE EXPOSITOR AND ILLUMINATOR HEART OF THE LESSON FROM THE BIBLE EXPOSITOR AND ILLUMINATOR God's message through Scripture (Neh. 8:1-3) The people's response through worship (Neh. 8:5-6) The reestablishing of the covenant (Neh. 8:13-14, 17-18) Renewing the Covenant Page 2 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

3 Introduction Overview and Approach to Lesson The outline of the lesson came from the Bible Expositor and Illuminator. It examines renewing God's Covenant with us. The study's aim is to learn that the entrance and reviewing of God's Word gives light and understanding. The study's application is to convict us to assemble to study God's Word and to commit to its teachings and commands. Lesson Introduction and Background From the NIV Standard Lesson Commentary What one does is more important than what one says. Actions speak louder than words. These two statements are true in all areas of life, whether the issue concerns a husband who tells his wife he loves her, yet never demonstrates that love, or a doctor who smokes while counseling his patients to practice a healthy lifestyle. We have a derogatory way of describing what s going on in those examples. We call it paying lip service. What an easy pattern to fall into! How often have we said things just to get someone else off our backs, never intending to take action? One woman said of her boss, You can sit down and have a nice, congenial conversation with him. He s very pleasant to talk with. But when the conversation is over, he won t do anything, even though you are expecting him to. If we behave that way in our daily lives, we will behave that way with God too. Christians live under the new covenant, but we fool ourselves if we think that once under it we will never need renewal. Christians do backslide. Christians do drift into lip service with God. Continuous renewal is needed, and the primacy of Scripture is the answer. That s why today s lesson will change lives. A survey of history quickly reveals the great influence the Word of God has had on people and nations. One example is the Old Testament revival under King Josiah (2 Kings 23), which was spurred on by finding and reading the book of the covenant to the king. We also note the time of reform under King Hezekiah, who held fast to the Lord and did not cease to follow him; he kept the commands the Lord had given Moses (2 Kings 18:6). The church age has also experienced times of great revival, with expressions of reliance on and obedience to the wonderful Word of God. Many of these revivals pushed themselves forward with slogans such as the Scriptures alone and no book but the Bible. Just as those who are devoted to the Word will experience revival and continued spiritual growth (2 Timothy 3:14 17), those who neglect the Word will fall into backsliding and spiritual apathy (Hebrews 2:1). As has been said, Either the Bible will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from the Bible. The Bible is the reference point for faithful, obedient living. This is because of the nature of its contents and its ultimate author. Notice some of the things the wonderful Word addresses: the attributes of God, the origin of humanity, the condition of humanity, the way of salvation, the destiny of the unsaved, the destiny of the saved, light for direction, and wisdom for decisions. The Word of God is authoritative and instructive. As has been pointed out, It is the traveler s map, the pilgrim s staff, the pilot s compass, the soldier s sword, and the Christian s charter. What a blessing and privilege it is for us to have such a gift of love as the wonderful Word of God! Let us be thankful and attentive to it as we consider how others viewed the Word in centuries past. In last week s lesson, we studied Nehemiah s leading of the people in building the wall of Jerusalem. There were serious challenges to overcome. Between the end of that lesson in Nehemiah 6:15 and the opening of today s lesson, we read of more challenges that continued to confront Nehemiah. He had to deal with spies in his midst (Nehemiah 6:17 19). While dealing with those people, Nehemiah had to ensure that the completion of the wall did not mean a return to business as usual. Completing the wall was just a start. That wall also needed gates and watchful guards (Nehemiah 7:1 3). Nehemiah also noticed that Jerusalem was under-populated and there was a problem with a lack of quality housing. Now the city was large and spacious, but there were few people in it, and the houses had not yet been rebuilt (Nehemiah 7:4). So Nehemiah relied on a genealogical list to move toward a solution (Nehemiah 7:5 73; compare Ezra 2). But before that solution was reached (Nehemiah 11:1), some important events intervened. Renewing the Covenant Page 3 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

4 From the Bible Expositor and Illuminator When Billy Graham spoke on Founder's Day at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary on 4 April 1989, he said, "We've lost sight of the fact that some things are always right and some things are always wrong. We've lost our reference point. We don't have any moral philosophy to undergird our way of life in this country, and our way of life is in serious jeopardy and serious danger unless something happens. And that something must be a spiritual revival" (Christianity Today, vol. 33, no. 9). There is repeatedly a need for a time of spiritual renewal. That is not a phenomenon of today only; it has been true for as long as mankind has occupied the earth. Spiritual renewal will not occur apart from the preaching of God's Word. It has always been true that "faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17). This is what prompted a gathering of the Jews shortly after the walls of Jerusalem were completed. It was time for spiritual renewal for everyone. The wall around Jerusalem had been complete a few days when the Jews gathered together to celebrate the first day of the Jewish civil year and the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles (Neh. 6:15; 7:73; 8:1). Ezra the scribe (scholar) and priest was asked to bring the law of God given to Moses and read it. This brought about a spiritual revival among God's people. A study of the development of God's people throughout the long history of the Jewish odyssey and the Christian church reveals that when attention is given to God's Word and when it has been kept in mind and followed, progress is made. When it is neglected or disobeyed, backsliding is inevitable, and judgment follows. Our lesson text describes a high point in spiritual development among the Jews of Jerusalem. It superseded their material advance in rebuilding the city and focused their attention on what was really important keeping God's law. Major Theme Analysis Reading the Covenant (Neh 8:1-3) 1 Now all the people gathered together as one man in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate; and they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded Israel. 2 So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men and women and all who could hear with understanding on the first day of the seventh month. 3 Then he read from it in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate from morning until midday, before the men and women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. Assembling together (1) Assembled because the Day of the Lord is approaching (Heb 10:25) 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Assembled because God will be in the midst (Matt 18:20) 20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." Assembled because of the fellowship (Acts 20:7-8) Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.8 There were many lamps in the upper room where they were gathered together. Assembled because it is a custom (Luke 4:16-17) So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read.17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. Renewing the Covenant Page 4 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

5 Assembled to reason about the Scriptures (Acts 17:1-4).2 Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ."4 And some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas. Attentiveness to hear God's Word (2) Attentiveness because of the desire to learn (Luke 19:47-48) 47 And He was teaching daily in the temple. But the chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people sought to destroy Him, 48 and were unable to do anything; for all the people were very attentive to hear Him. Attentiveness to determine the truth (Acts 17:11) 11 These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. Attentiveness to keep from drifting away from the faith (Heb 2:1) 1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. Attentiveness because of trying to get an understanding (Matt 13:23) 23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty." Hearing and Knowing (From the NIV Standard Lesson Commentary) Romans 10:17 teaches, Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. There ought to be in us an increasing desire to hear and know the Bible. However, most do not read the Bible regularly. Research confirms it. Billy Graham reported a survey indicating only 12 percent of people who say they believe the Bible read it every day. Television confirms it. On Jeopardy The Bible is almost always the last category chosen. Experience confirms it. Two ladies were overheard talking about the Bible. One asked the other if she knew about the epistles. She replied, Of course. The epistles are the wives of the apostles. Honors students in Newton, Massachusetts, high school gave these astounding replies on a quiz for a Bible as Literature course. Sodom and Gomorrah were lovers. Jezebel was Ahab s donkey. The four horsemen appeared on the Acropolis. The Gospel writers were Matthew, Mark, Luther, and John. Eve was created from an apple. Jesus was baptized by Moses. Golgotha was the giant who slew the apostle David. Can anybody dispute that Bible reading has fallen on hard times? Ezra, Nehemiah, Paul, and others knew the importance of hearing and knowing God s Word. Do you? Getting an understanding (3) Understanding through the teaching of the Holy Spirit (Prov 9:9-10) 9 Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. 10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Understanding through wisdom (Prov 3:13) 13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, Renewing the Covenant Page 5 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

6 Understanding so that we will not be stubborn (Ps 32:9) 9 Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Understanding through meditation of our hearts (Ps 49:3) 3 My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the utterance from my heart will give understanding. Understanding so that we are obedient to God's Word (Ps 119:34) 34 Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Understanding so that we can grow into maturity (1 Cor 14:20) 20 Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults. Understanding that comes from God (2 Tim 2:7) 7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. Understanding that is shown through good conduct (James 3:13) 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. Reaction to the Covenant (Neh 8:5-6) 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was standing above all the people; and when he opened it, all the people stood up. 6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. Then all the people answered, "Amen, Amen!" while lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground. Standing to respect God's word (5) Commentary from Barnes' Notes The attitude of attention and respect. Compare the existing practice of the Christian Church at the reading of the Gospel for the day. Commentary from Keil & Delitzsch It cannot be shown from the Old Testament that it had been from the days of Moses a custom with the Israelites to stand at the reading of the law, as the Rabbis assert. Commentary from Adam Clarke This was out of respect to the sacred word: in imitation of this, when the gospel for the day is read in our churches, all the people stand up. Commentary from Matthew Henry With great reverence. When Ezra opened the book all the people stood up (v. 5), thereby showing respect both to Ezra and to the word he was about to read. It becomes servants to stand when their master speaks to them, in honour to their master and to show a readiness to do as they are bidden. Renewing the Covenant Page 6 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

7 Agree in unity (6) Definition of "Amen" (from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary) A men (so be it) - a solemn word by which a person confirms a statement, an oath, or a covenant (Neh 5:13). It is also used in worship to affirm an address, psalm, or prayer. Amen is to request that God makes it so (Jer 28:6) 6 He said, "Amen! May the Lord do so! May the Lord fulfill the words you have prophesied by bringing the articles of the Lord's house and all the exiles back to this place from Babylon. Amen is to understand and agree (1 Cor 14:16) 16 If you are praising God with your spirit, how can one who finds himself among those who do not understand say "Amen" to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? Amen is to say "So be it" (Num 5:18-22) 18 After the priest has had the woman stand before the Lord, he shall loosen her hair and place in her hands the reminder offering, the grain offering for jealousy, while he himself holds the bitter water that brings a curse. 19 Then the priest shall put the woman under oath and say to her, "If no other man has slept with you and you have not gone astray and become impure while married to your husband, may this bitter water that brings a curse not harm you. 20 But if you have gone astray while married to your husband and you have defiled yourself by sleeping with a man other than your husband" 21 here the priest is to put the woman under this curse of the oath "may the Lord cause your people to curse and denounce you when he causes your thigh to waste away and your abdomen to swell. 22 May this water that brings a curse enter your body so that your abdomen swells and your thigh wastes away." "'Then the woman is to say, "Amen. So be it." Praising and worshipping of God (6) Praise and worship because God is our God (Ps 95:6-7) 6 Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. 7 For He is our God, And we are the people of His pasture, And the sheep of His hand. Personal Commentary - Preparation for Worship The key to having a vital experience and encounter with God is proper preparation and faithfulness to persevere in that preparation. Some steps of preparation for worship are: 1. Be prepared to come before God in humility and be ready to hear and accept His Words (Ps 95:6-8) 2. Remember God and focus on Him, submit to His dominion and prepare with an attitude of thanksgiving, reverence and awe (Ps 22:27-29; Heb 12:28) 3. Prepare an offering to bring (Ps 96:8) 4. Be prepared to come before God with gladness and joy (Ps 100:2) 5. Prepare for worship by offering my life and body as a living sacrifice (Rom 12:1) 6. Be prepared by coming to worship filled with the Holy Spirit (John 4:23-24) 7. Prepare by ensuring I come in sincerity, seeking only the truth and to worship God and God only (Col 2:18-23) 8. Come prepared to find help, through the mercy and grace of God, in the time of need (Heb 4:16) Praise and worship because God is worthy (Rev 5:1-9) And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals.2 Then I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals?"3 And no one in heaven or on the earth or under Renewing the Covenant Page 7 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

8 the earth was able to open the scroll, or to look at it. 4 So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it.5 But one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals." 6 And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth.7 Then He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne. 8 Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. Requirements of the Covenant (Neh 8:13-14) 13 Now on the second day the heads of the fathers' houses of all the people, with the priests and Levites, were gathered to Ezra the scribe, in order to understand the words of the Law. 14 And they found written in the Law, which the LORD had commanded by Moses, that the children of Israel should dwell in booths during the feast of the seventh month, Leader's insight into God's Word (13) God gives His Holy Spirit so that we may have understanding (1 Cor 2:12) 12 We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. Insight from God brings discernment (Phil 1:9-10) 9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, Insight through examining the Scriptures daily to search for truth (Acts 17:11) 11 Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. Insight from meditation on God's Word (Ps 119:99) 99 I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes. Always seek spiritual insight and understanding (Prov 2:1-5) 1 My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, 2 turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, 3 and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, 4 and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, 5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. Examples and need for obedience (14) The Biblical writers were led to write examples for other's benefit (1 Cor 10:6, 11) 6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. 11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. Renewing the Covenant Page 8 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

9 Obedience to God proves our love of Him (John 14:21) 21 Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." Jesus was the perfect example of obedience (Heb 5:7-9) 7 During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered 9 and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him Obedience brings blessings (James 1:25) 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it he will be blessed in what he does. Obedience leads to righteousness (Rom 6:16) 16 Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? Obedience that is better than sacrifices (1 Sam 15:22) 22 But Samuel replied: "Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. Explanation of Booths From Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary During the Feast of Tabernacles (or Feast of Booths), the Israelites made booths and lived in them for seven days. This was to remind them of their temporary dwellings in the wilderness, when God delivered them from Egyptian bondage <Neh. 8:13-18>. The Book of Job uses "booth" as a symbol of the transitory, impermanent security of the wicked <Job 27:18>. From International Standard Bible Encyclopedia The Hebrew word cukkah (rendered in the King James Version "booth" or "booths," eleven times; "tabernacle" or "tabernacles," ten times; "pavilion" or "pavilions," five times; "cottage" once) means a hut made of wattled twigs or branches <Lev 23:42; Neh 8:15>. In countries where trees are abundant such wattled structures are common as temporary buildings as they can be constructed in a very short time. Cattle were probably housed in them <Gen 33:17>. Such hurriedly-made huts were used by soldiers <2 Sam 11:11; 1 Kin 20:12> and by harvesters-- hence, the name feast of "booths" or "tabernacles". <Job 27:18> uses booth (parallel moth's house) as a symbol of impermanence. Similar huts were erected in vineyards, etc., to protect them from robbers and beasts of prey. The isolated condition of Jerusalem in the time of the prophet Isaiah is compared to a "booth in a vineyard" <Isa 18>. From NIV Standard Lesson Commentary The feast of the seventh month is also called the Feast of Tabernacles. It should be noted that this word for tabernacles is not related to the word that describes God's dwelling place when the people were living in tents in the desert (Exodus 40:34-38). Instead, it describes the booths, or shelters, that the people were commanded to make from branches of trees; for this reason, this feast was also designated as the Feast of Booths. The feast lasted seven days, and on the day following it a special gathering of the Israelites was to take place (Leviticus 23:33-36). The people Renewing the Covenant Page 9 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

10 lived in booths in memory of the time when they had lived in booths or tents before they reached the promised land (Leviticus 23:39-43). Restoration of the Covenant (Neh 8:17-18) 17 So the whole assembly of those who had returned from the captivity made booths and sat under the booths; for since the days of Joshua the son of Nun until that day the children of Israel had not done so. And there was very great gladness. 18 Also day by day, from the first day until the last day, he read from the Book of the Law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the eighth day there was a sacred assembly, according to the prescribed manner. Restoration of joy (17) Joy of the righteous (Ps 68:3) 3 But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful. Joy in worship (Ps 100:2) 2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Joy even in trials (Hab 3:17-19) 17 Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, 18 yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. 19 The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. Joy in fasts (Zech 8:19) 19 This is what the Lord Almighty says: "The fasts of the fourth, fifth, seventh and tenth months will become joyful and glad occasions and happy festivals for Judah. Therefore love truth and peace." Joy in hope (Rom 12:10-12) 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Restoration of commitment (18) Commitment to cling to what is good (Rom 12:9) 9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Commitment of faith (1 Tim 1:5) 5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Commitment to draw near to God (Heb 10:22) 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Renewing the Covenant Page 10 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

11 Commitment to the wisdom of God (James 3:17) 17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Commitment to please God (Heb 11:5-6) 5 By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Commitment to trust in God (Ps 37:5-6) 5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Conclusion and Other Thoughts Concluding Thoughts from the NIV Standard Lesson Commentary There is nothing like God s Word, desired and applied, to bring about revival. The result of the reading of the Word in today s lesson was that the people entered into a formal covenant of renewed devotion to the law and service to God. It was signed by Nehemiah, the leaders, the princes, and the priests. They promised to keep the law of Moses, pay their tithes, support the temple, and keep the Sabbath. They bound themselves under a curse to keep this covenant (Nehemiah 9:38 10:39). The people were serious about following God. As we have seen in this lesson, there are attitudes and actions that will lead to revival and spiritual growth. We too should continue to grow in our knowledge and observance of the Word of God because of the infinite value of the things written in it. A careful and continuing search of the Bible will produce many great rewards. We will find truths and promises that will encourage and give strength. We will discover instructions to correct wrong thinking and conduct. We will find comfort and joy in knowing true fellowship with God. If you are in need of restoring your covenant relationship with the Lord, you will find that he is willing and ready to receive you with open arms. Commit yourself to learn from, obey, and worship the Lord as a sign of your renewed relationship with God. You too will experience great gladness in returning to him. Concluding Thoughts from the Bible Expositor and Illuminator Sometimes when we get caught up in some great project for the Lord, we forget the whole purpose of it all. No doubt Nehemiah did not want that to happen with the people of Jerusalem as they finished rebuilding the walls of the city. In his concern to rebuild the nation spiritually, he had an ally in Ezra. How sad it would have been if after all the work of construction in Jerusalem, the Israelites had disregarded their covenant relationship with God! Thankfully, the people of Israel wanted to hear and understand God's law. Perhaps in this case their work had quickened their hearts and made them love God more. Ezra proceeded to read the law of God to the people. There are key indications that the people were serious in their pursuit of God. First, as another part of Nehemiah 8:3 reveals to us, the people listened for a long time. Ezra read "from the morning until midday," or for about half the day. We might ask ourselves how we would hold up in such a session! A second indication of seriousness is that everyone, both men and women, listened. Even children who were old enough to understand what was being said were present. At least at this moment in their history, the people of Judah had an admirable concern for the spiritual training of their children. The People's desire to hear God's law was encouraging. As Alexander Maclaren explained, the "earnest wish to know God's will, is never cherished in vain. He who does not intend to obey does not wish to know the law. If we have no longing to know what the will of the Lord is, we may be very sure that we prefer our own to his" (Expositions of Holy Scripture, George H. Doran). The point here is that when we are in a healthy relationship, we desire to learn what pleases the other person and then do it. Sin causes a breach in our relationship with God. We usually do not want to hear what God's Word says at such times because it Renewing the Covenant Page 11 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

12 convicts us of our waywardness. The people of Judah evidently wanted to forsake their sin and pursue a closer walk with God. The text should prompt us to consider whether we have a similar desire to hear and study God's Word. Attending to God's Word should not be a matter of boring, grudging duty. We should share the spirit of the psalmist, who declared, "Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold" (Ps. 119:127). In our world today we are confronted by many distractions. Unless it involves a sporting event or some other form of entertainment, our collective attention span seems to get ever shorter. Amid the clamor and fast pace of modern life, God's people need a strong measure of faith to continue a diligent pursuit of learning from God's Word. No matter what the world offers to our physical senses, the eyes of faith point us to where our eternal interests lie. We may never be called on to listen to God's Word for half a day at a time. But perhaps God will work in our hearts so that the world will take notice of our strong desire to know Him better. Practical Points from the Bible Expositor and Illuminator 1. If revival is to come, God's Word must be taken seriously (Neh. 8:1) 2. A strong church will be founded on spiritually strong families (vs. 2-3) 3. We should constantly thank God for the Bible and never take it for granted (vs. 5) 4. The quality of our worship is directly related to our commitment to Scripture (vs. 6) 5. We will never be disappointed if we truly desire to understand the Bible (vs ) 6. Knowledge of God's commands demands obedience to them (vs ) Heart of the Lesson from the Bible Expositor and Illuminator Finally both the temple and the walls of Jerusalem had been rebuilt. The people of the city had obeyed God, but something more was still needed not a physical structure but a spiritual identity. The people needed to embrace for themselves God's covenant with Israel. God's message through Scripture (Neh. 8:1-3) In the seventh month, the scribe Ezra gathered the people in a square of the city and read Scripture to them, most likely from the books of Moses. Although the listeners were Jewish, they may not have been very familiar with these Scriptures. Since the return from exile, the people had struggled along with little prosperity. Without the security of city walls, there may have been little happening in the way of schooling. Possibly the only religious instruction many had received came from their parents. And, of course, in those days people did not have Scripture scrolls in their homes. For those standing in the finally enclosed Jerusalem, the reading of the Scripture may thus have been a first-time hearing. Whether that was the case or not, however, the people listened attentively. Being attentive to the Word of God is important for us too. Scripture is still the primary means through which God communicates with us today. The people's response through worship (Neh. 8:5-6) At first glance, the action in verses 5-6 sounds as if it came before Ezra's reading of the Scripture recorded in verse 3, because, obviously, Ezra could not have read the Scripture without first opening the book. But that was probably a second opening, a ritual act in which the scroll was held aloft and extended to the people as a symbolic offering of God's Word to the congregation after hearing the Scriptures. The fact that Ezra "blessed the Lord" suggests that he understood his action as a religious ritual as well. In any case, the people responded with "Amen" and bowed in worship. Given God's clear commands that Israel worship no God but Him and make no idols representing anything (Exod. 20:2-5), it is unlikely that the people thought that they were worshiping the Scripture with this action. Rather, they were worshiping the Lord, whose words were delivered to them through the Scriptures Ezra read. That is an important distinction for us as well. The Scriptures are high and holy, bringing to us the very words of God. Thus, we cherish, read, study, and revere the Bible. But when we worship, our action is directed to the God the Bible makes known to us. Renewing the Covenant Page 12 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008

13 The reestablishing of the covenant (Neh. 8:13-14, 17-18) The next day, the people gathered again to continue listening to the sacred texts. In the reading that day, they heard about a feast their ancestors observed in the seventh month. The Feast of Booths commemorated the time when Israel lived in the wilderness after fleeing Egypt. For the seven days of the festival, the forebears of Ezra's generation resided in temporary huts, living as their ancestors had in their desert sojourn (Lev. 23:34-36). This was a dramatic way for the people to recall and celebrate God's care. Learning of this festival, the people of Ezra's day immediately instituted it themselves so that they too could show that they considered themselves to be under the covenant God had made with their ancestors. Renewing the Covenant Page 13 of 13 SS Lesson for 05/25/2008