As we consider the story of Nehemiah, we fine the people anxious to alter their life style. In short, they came to the realization that there are priorities in life. These priorities come out in (Neh. 8-10). In chapter nine the people pour their hearts out to the Lord and verbally, and now in chapter ten in writing, declare their dependence on Him. Forty eight names go down on the document, Nehemiah our chief character leads the list as would be expected.

We live in an age of broken promises, unfulfilled commitments and meaningless vows. It seems that a man's word is worth very little today. The exception certainly only proves the rule.

In Nehemiah we see a group of people who under quality leadership, have the courage to complete a necessary work against all obstacles and through the influence of the Word of God and God's man, Ezra, move forward to a great revival and a renewed commitment to God's law, house and work.

OUTLINE OF THE CHAPTER:

I. THE PEOPLE OF THE COVENANT (10:1-27)

A. Nehemiah

B. The Priests

C. The Levites

D. The Leaders

II. THE PROVISIONS OF THE COVENANT (10:28-38)

A. The Terms

[1]. Keep the Law
[2]. The Commandments
[3]. Intermarriage
[4]. Sabbath

B. The House of God

[1]. The Temple Tax
[2]. Wood offering
[3]. Firstfruits
[4]. Firstborn
[5]. Offerings for the Levites
[6]. Levites offering

III. THE VOW "...WE WILL NOT FORSAKE..." (10 39)

I. THE PEOPLE OF THE COVENANT - (10:1-27)

Trusting Jesus Christ as personal Saviour is a very difficult decision for many to make in this life. It is my observation that the struggle the Christian goes through in deciding to consecrate, commit, dedicate, surrender (or whatever term you might use) to the Lord, is often as difficult, and in many cases far more difficult than the initial acceptance of God's provision through Christ.

There are at least two principles that are brought out here that serve as essential prerequisites for consecration:

[1]. These people had to come to a knowledge of what God required of them individually and corporately, through the reading of the Law.

[2]. The emotional effect of the review of their history, helped them to see clearly that their past failures had brought their nation to captivity, failing to fulfill their purpose in God's plan.

II. THE PROVISIONS OF THE COVENANT - (10:28-38)

There is, first, the decision to submit themselves to the authority of the Scriptures. They know that they cannot expect God's blessings without obedience. They also know they have to act responsibly before Him. The Israelites then pledge themselves to observe certain specifics. Intermarriage has certainly helped bring about the downfall of Israel. Religious differences have resulted in the children being improperly instructed in the way of the Lord. (Neh. 13:23-29) This in turn has undermined society and Israel's God-given spiritual values.

Next we see their commitment to worship. The Jews determined to keep the Sabbath, allow the ground to lie fallow each seventh year, and cancel all debts. They also pledge themselves to maintain the financial needs of the Temple and those who minister in it. God's house is once again at the center of their lives.

 

III. THE VOW - (10:39)

"When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed." "Better is it thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay." (Ecc. 5:4,5)

Finally, on a note of great solemnity, all the people affirm, "They will not neglect the House of God." Without a strong religious center, the nation would not long survive.

SOME KEY PRINCIPLES TO REMEMBER:

[1]. "Look before you leap." Serious thought should precede all major adjustments in one's life. "Count the cost..." Priorities guide the accomplishments and failures in our lives; take time for consideration, counsel and reflection.
[2]. Written plans confirm right priorities. Write down your goals and priorities in your life. From time to time read them and examine your progress.
[3]. A loss of Christian 'distinction' and conformity to the world go hand in hand... are you different? Are you authentic? Establish and confirm your own personal priorities. Look to, and follow those who do likewise.