Neh 8:9 | KingComments | STEP | The result of reading and explaining the Scriptures is that the people become aware of their failure and sin. They are not only hearers, but also doers. They have seen themselves in the mirror of the Word and have not forgotten what they look like after reading it ( ). The Word works in their conscience and they weep. The day of great victory becomes at the same time a day of deep awareness of sin. In the light of God’s Word, they discover how serious their failure is. While reading and explaining God’s Word, Nehemiah is in the background. He acknowledges Ezra’s rightful, God given place. This is an example of good cooperation and appreciation of the gift that the LORD has given to another member of His people. When the Word has its effect, Nehemiah comes forward again. There must be government again, there must be an indication of what the people must do. Nehemiah takes the initiative for this – at least, it seems, because he is mentioned first – and Ezra and the Levites join him. These men declare that the tears can be dried. Mourning and weeping are good, but not on this day. For on this day it is not the people that are the center, but the LORD their God. It is a day especially dedicated to Him. By reading His Word He has laid hold on this day. When the Word is read and has its effect, all honor goes to Him. In this case being busy with one’s own failure shifts the attention too much from the greatness and goodness of the LORD to the misery of man.

‏ Nehemiah 8:9

The Effect of the Word

The result of reading and explaining the Scriptures is that the people become aware of their failure and sin. They are not only hearers, but also doers. They have seen themselves in the mirror of the Word and have not forgotten what they look like after reading it (Jam 1:23-25). The Word works in their conscience and they weep. The day of great victory becomes at the same time a day of deep awareness of sin. In the light of God’s Word, they discover how serious their failure is.

While reading and explaining God’s Word, Nehemiah is in the background. He acknowledges Ezra’s rightful, God given place. This is an example of good cooperation and appreciation of the gift that the LORD has given to another member of His people. When the Word has its effect, Nehemiah comes forward again. There must be government again, there must be an indication of what the people must do. Nehemiah takes the initiative for this – at least, it seems, because he is mentioned first – and Ezra and the Levites join him.

These men declare that the tears can be dried. Mourning and weeping are good, but not on this day. For on this day it is not the people that are the center, but the LORD their God. It is a day especially dedicated to Him. By reading His Word He has laid hold on this day. When the Word is read and has its effect, all honor goes to Him. In this case being busy with one’s own failure shifts the attention too much from the greatness and goodness of the LORD to the misery of man.