Theory question 103
Concern for Judah(a)(i) Explain how Nehemiah received the news about the state of affairs in Jerusalem. (ii) Relate Nehemiah's prayer when he received the news. (b) Identify three virtues that can be learnt from Nehemiah's reaction.
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(a)(i) In Susa, Hanani and some men from Judah came; Nehemiah asked about the Jews who escaped exile and about Jerusalem (Nehemiah 1:1-2).
They said the survivors were in great trouble and shame, the wall of Jerusalem broken down and its gates burnt (Nehemiah 1:3).
He sat down and wept, mourned for days, fasted and prayed (Nehemiah 1:4).
(ii) He called on the great and terrible God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love Him (Nehemiah 1:5).
He asked God to hear his prayer day and night for Israel (Nehemiah 1:6).
He confessed the sins of Israel, including himself and his father's house, for not keeping God's commandments (Nehemiah 1:6-7).
He reminded God of His word to Moses: if they were unfaithful they would be scattered, but if they returned He would gather them (Nehemiah 1:8-9).
They are God's people whom He redeemed (Nehemiah 1:10).
He asked God to give him success and mercy before the king (Nehemiah 1:11).
(b) Any three: concern and love for one's people; humility in confessing sin; prayerfulness; faith in God's promises; fasting and self-denial; courage.
Answer (i) and (ii) from Nehemiah 1, then three virtues.