Sermon Notes:
Seven steps to the new life you need:
1. A boundary to take refuge (Nehemiah 7:1-73, 11:1-36; 12:1-26)
2. A reminder of the truth (Nehemiah 8:1-4, 7-8, 18)
3. A posture of worship (Nehemiah 8:5-6)
4. A repentant heart (Nehemiah 8:9)
5. A surrender to joy (Nehemiah 8:10-12)
6. A celebration of thanksgiving (Nehemiah 8:13-17)
7. A dedication of everything in your life that matters (Nehemiah 12:27-47)
Follow-up Questions from Sunday:
Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Digging Deeper:
1. Read Hebrews 10:24-25 and Matthew 18:20. What are the spiritual benefits you’ve received by worshipping together with other believers? How has God used fellowship with Christians to encourage and challenge you?
2. Read Jesus’ prayer in John 17:17 and compare it to what he says in Matthew 4:4. How does the word of God help us to be sanctified (set apart) from the world? Keep in mind that when Jesus is referring to the word of God, he means not only His words, but the Old Testament (i.e., the Law). What does it imply about the need for God’s word in our daily lives (given that we also ingest words from other sources)?
3. Read Nehemiah 8:9-12. Why did the people start weeping when they listened to God’s word? Why does Nehemiah prompt them to stop grieving and find joy in the strength of the Lord? What does this tell you about the kind of life God wants for you?
4. Read about the Festival of Tabernacles in Leviticus 23:39-43. There is a lesson to be learned by living in temporary shelter as we trust in God’s provision. Read Hebrews 11:13-16 and explain why reflecting on God’s provision in uncertain times is a powerful reminder of our eternal destiny.
5. Read Nehemiah 12:27. What are some important things in your life you can dedicate to God as you embark on the new life He has for you?
Prayer:
Close your group with prayer, asking the Lord to give us wisdom for our daily lives in these unique days we’re living.