Sermon Info
Summary
Throughout history, God has used men and women to accomplish His work. God doesn’t need any of us. He is sovereign over the entire world. Yet, in His sovereignty and grace, He allows us to be involved in what He is doing in the world. As we join Him and become involved in His work, our lives are changed. We become more like Jesus. Christ-followers who have gone before us have left a legacy that has impacted our lives today – and, now, this is our turn. This is our time. May God find us zealous and faithful in what He has called us to… NEXT.
Content
1. The Importance of Community
Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests went to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set its doors in place… The men of Jericho built the adjoining section, and Zakkur son of Imri built next to them. Nehemiah 3:1-2
- Nehemiah did not try to rebuild the walls by himself – he couldn’t!
- God created us for community.
- You are not created to go through life alone.
- They worked “NEXT” to each other.
2. Everyone has a place in God’s work.
Uzziel son of Harhaiah, one of the goldsmiths, repaired the next section; and Hannaniah, one of the perfume-makers, made repairs next to that. They restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall… Shallum son of Hallohesh, ruler of a half-district of Jerusalem, repaired the next section with the help of his daughters. Nehemiah 3:8 and 12
- God’s call comes to the whole community.
- It’s not the “80 / 20” rule, but the goal is 100% participation.
- It takes all of us.
- Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:12
3. All work is important in building God’s kingdom.
The Dung Gate was repaired by Mlkijah son of Rekab, ruler of the district of Beth Hakkerem. He rebuilt it and put its doors with their bolts and bars in place. Nehemiah 3:14
- God invites us to join Him in His work.
- Some people even repaired the Dung Gate.
- For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45
- As you grow spiritually, you grow in humility.
- What a joy and an honor it is to be used by God.
4. Let’s give our best for the glory of our God.
Next to him, Baruch son of Zabbai zealously repaired another section… Nehemiah 3:20
- God wants us to serve Him with spiritual zeal.
- Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
- For God’s Church to be at her best, it takes all of us giving our best.
- A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
- We are a chain in the generations of Christianity.
- It’s not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice.
