It Can Be Done!
Nehemiah 6:15-19

Lesson 20

background notes

doctrinal / teaching points

1. It is possible to build strong walls.
2. Strong spiritual walls do affect the enemy camp.
3. Mixed marriages will lead to compromise.

practical application

1. Never say, “It can’t be done.”
2. Expect to feel betrayed in the work of the Lord.

questions

1. How long did it take to complete the rebuilding of the wall?
2. How was it possible for a wall which had been in ruins for 140 years to be rebuilt so quickly? What did this communicate to the surrounding peoples?
3. Who was Tobiah, and how had he gained influence in Israel?
4. How do strong walls affect the enemy?
5. What were Tobiah’s next disruptive tactics?
6. Why do “mixed marriages” lead to compromise?

answers

1. Fifty-two days
2. The answer to both questions: The work had been done with the help of God.
3. He was one of the enemy leaders. He made inroads into Israel through marriage.
4. The enemy loses confidence and becomes disheartened.
5. People who were loyal to Tobiah told Nehemiah about Tobiah’s “good deeds,” and reported Nehemiah’s reaction. Tobiah also sent intimidating letters to Nehemiah.
6. Because each spouse desires to please the other. The Christian partner’s loyalty to Christ will be tested when concessions regarding Christian lifestyle and commitment are made, in the interests of “family peace.” The Bible is clear that a believer is not to be “yoked” to an unbeliever. See 2 Corinthians 6:14.

discuss/consider

1. Recall a situation in which you were involved when the hand of God was seen. Was God praised and given the glory for His mighty intervention?
2. Have you ever been discouraged by the magnitude of a job facing you? What did you do about it? How do you overcome this kind of discouragement?
3. “Expect to feel betrayed in the work of the Lord.” Explain this statement. Have you ever seen this in your life?

challenge

We have a choice to build strong walls or sand castles of our lives. Review the lessons on what it takes to build strong spiritual walls.

memorize

• “All the nations…realized that this work was done by God” Nehemiah 6:16