Neh 2:20 | KingComments | STEP | The first clash between Nehemiah and his enemies sets the tone for all further clashes. Nehemiah does not appeal using the king’s permission in the face of his enemies. He claims a higher Source, He involves “the God of heaven” in the work. Mockery is only effective if we see ourselves in connection with the mockers. It has no effect if we see ourselves in relation with God. Nehemiah sees himself and those who help him joined together with God ( ). Nehemiah acts very firmly and leaves no room for compromise. He does not beat around the bush, but speaks with authority. He places the mockers outside the work of God and draws a sharp line between himself and his opponents. He openly declares where his opponents stand: they have “no portion, right or memorial in Jerusalem”. 1. They have “no portion” in Jerusalem, because the portion of the enemies is in this life ( ) and not in the things of God. 2. They also have “no right” to have a place in Jerusalem or a say in what needs to be done – their opinions and thoughts are worthless. 3. Finally, there is also “no memorial” of them in God’s city. They have contributed nothing that has any lasting meaning and is remembered by God. They will be outside forever. Some lessons 1. It is important not to give in to opposition from the start. The strength to resist lies in the conviction to be called by God. 2. Measure the strength of your opponents by the strength of God and not by your own strength. 3. See the opponents in their relationship with God. They have no relationship with God and therefore no interest or share in God’s work. If they do not repent, they will be without God forever.

‏ Nehemiah 2:20

Reaction of Nehemiah to the Mockery

The first clash between Nehemiah and his enemies sets the tone for all further clashes. Nehemiah does not appeal using the king’s permission in the face of his enemies. He claims a higher Source, He involves “the God of heaven” in the work. Mockery is only effective if we see ourselves in connection with the mockers. It has no effect if we see ourselves in relation with God. Nehemiah sees himself and those who help him joined together with God (Rom 8:31).

Nehemiah acts very firmly and leaves no room for compromise. He does not beat around the bush, but speaks with authority. He places the mockers outside the work of God and draws a sharp line between himself and his opponents. He openly declares where his opponents stand: they have “no portion, right or memorial in Jerusalem”.

1. They have “no portion” in Jerusalem, because the portion of the enemies is in this life (Psa 17:14a) and not in the things of God.

2. They also have “no right” to have a place in Jerusalem or a say in what needs to be done – their opinions and thoughts are worthless.

3. Finally, there is also “no memorial” of them in God’s city. They have contributed nothing that has any lasting meaning and is remembered by God. They will be outside forever.

Some lessons

1. It is important not to give in to opposition from the start. The strength to resist lies in the conviction to be called by God.

2. Measure the strength of your opponents by the strength of God and not by your own strength.

3. See the opponents in their relationship with God. They have no relationship with God and therefore no interest or share in God’s work. If they do not repent, they will be without God forever.