2:1-3
It was about four months before Nehemiah actually approached the king, and this kind of happened by accident. One time when he brought the wine he looked very downcast. This could have been very dangerous, for the king could have viewed it as disrespectful, as if Nehemiah was somehow displeased with the king, and the king inquired of Nehemiah as to why he was so downcast.
Because of the reasons mentioned above Nehemiah was “very much afraid”. He replies, being careful to demonstrate his respect for the king. He does not mention Jerusalem directly, remember that it was the king who, under pressure from others, has given the order for the work to stop. He also mentions that his ancestors were buried there, making the matter more personal, and perhaps more likely to win sympathy from the king.
2:4-6
The king does respond favourably, asking what Nehemiah wants. Nehemiah had no doubt thought about this beforehand, but he also prays to God. He asks to go to Jerusalem (though again not naming the city) in order to rebuild it. The king indicates that he will respond favourably, asking how long his journey will take and when he would get back. The journey would take several months.
2:7-10
Nehemiah had thought about the practicalities. So he asks for letters of introduction, to ensure safe passage there, and also letters to allow him to be given timber necessary for the rebuilding. The king granted his request, and Nehemiah puts this down to “the gracious hand of God”. So Nehemiah set out on his journey armed with the letters. Sanballat and Horonite were disturbed by this development. There will always be those who react against anything that favours Israel, this is still true today!
No comments:
Post a Comment