Neh 2:19 | KingComments | STEP | Of the opponents mentioned here, we have already met Sanballat and Tobiah ( ). The Arab Geshem has joined them. In the enemies we find next to the representatives of Moab and Ammon now also a representative of Edom. These three nations, who are all brother nations of Israel, are the most hostile nations of Israel ( ; ). They are fiercely displeased with the coming of Nehemiah ( ), but they have not yet made themselves heard or taken any action. This does not mean that their enmity and opposition have diminished. Their displeasure is not transient. Now that Nehemiah begins to build, they are making themselves heard. Their first pinpricks with which they treat Nehemiah and his co-workers consist of mocking remarks. As much as Nehemiah’s speech encouraged the people, so much so, the mockery of the enemies is meant to take power away. It takes great strength of faith to continue a work for the Lord under constant mockery. A lesson When engaging in an activity for the Lord, we must take into account the “hostility by sinners against” us ( ).

‏ Nehemiah 2:19

The Enemies Make Themselves Heard

Of the opponents mentioned here, we have already met Sanballat and Tobiah (Neh 2:10). The Arab Geshem has joined them. In the enemies we find next to the representatives of Moab and Ammon now also a representative of Edom. These three nations, who are all brother nations of Israel, are the most hostile nations of Israel (Dan 11:41; Isa 11:14).

They are fiercely displeased with the coming of Nehemiah (Neh 2:10), but they have not yet made themselves heard or taken any action. This does not mean that their enmity and opposition have diminished. Their displeasure is not transient. Now that Nehemiah begins to build, they are making themselves heard.

Their first pinpricks with which they treat Nehemiah and his co-workers consist of mocking remarks. As much as Nehemiah’s speech encouraged the people, so much so, the mockery of the enemies is meant to take power away. It takes great strength of faith to continue a work for the Lord under constant mockery.

A lesson

When engaging in an activity for the Lord, we must take into account the “hostility by sinners against” us (Heb 12:3).