Commentary on Nehemiah 2:19

Verse Context: In Nehemiah 2:19, we witness Nehemiah, upon his arrival in Jerusalem, facing opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem. This verse signifies the beginning of Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem amidst adversarial forces.

Exegesis of Nehemiah 2:19

Nehemiah 2:19 states: "But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? Will ye rebel against the king?"

Opposition and Mockery

Matthew Henry: Nehemiah's adversaries, Sanballat and Tobiah, epitomize the external threats faced by those endeavoring to serve God. Their ridicule signifies the common tactic of mockery used against God’s people to instill fear and doubt.

Albert Barnes: The mockery of Nehemiah's enemies serves to highlight the disdain often held by the ungodly towards those who pursue righteous goals. Their questions are pointed and serve as an attempt to undermine the work Nehemiah is undertaking.

Adam Clarke: Clarke emphasizes that the scorn of Sanballat and his companions reveals the insecurity and the opposition to those seeking to bring about change. The question posed—whether Nehemiah and his followers are rebelling against the king—undermines their credibility and authority.

The Nature of Their Mockery

The laughter and scorn pointed at Nehemiah reflect a broader reality in spiritual warfare: adversaries often attempt to discredit God’s messengers first through mockery. The word "laughed" signifies a deep-seated contempt, possibly indicating their belief that the restoration of Jerusalem was impossible.

Dealing with Opposition

Matthew Henry: Despite the scorn Nehemiah faced, he remained resolute. Believers must recognize that scorn may often accompany their calling. Nehemiah’s strength lay in his prayer life and reliance on God, which is evidenced throughout his narrative.

The Deceit of Liars

Albert Barnes: The enemies of Nehemiah were known for their deceitful nature. They sought to instill fear, hoping to dismantle Nehemiah's resolve. Barnes points out that mocking questions posed by adversaries often contain elements of truth, meant to confuse and weaken the resolve of God’s people.

Addressing the Question of Rebellion

Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem's insinuation of rebellion against the king signifies an important historical context. Such claims were serious, as rebellion could bring about dire consequences. However, Nehemiah was working under the authority and with the permission of King Artaxerxes, thereby rendering their accusations false. Nehemiah’s response demonstrates his awareness of God’s sovereignty over earthly rulers.

Lessons for Today

• Endurance in the Face of Mockery: Like Nehemiah, modern believers must embrace resilience against mockery and ridicule. The strategies of adversaries haven’t changed; laughter and scorn are often weapons aimed to sow doubt.
• Prayer and Dependence on God: Nehemiah’s example of steadfast prayer before undertaking bold actions reminds believers to rely on God for strength and wisdom in opposition.
• Understanding the Reality of Opposition: Both external and internal opposition is to be expected when pursuing God’s calling. Recognizing this enables the faithful to prepare spiritually and practically.
• Clarity in Identity and Mission: Neglecting to affirm one’s identity and mission can lead to vulnerability in the face of attacks. Nehemiah carried a clear vision for his task, derived from divine purpose.

Theological Implications

This encounter in Nehemiah 2:19 serves as a microcosm of the greater narrative of God’s people throughout history. Oppression, mockery, and misunderstanding are often companions for those pursuing righteousness. It points towards a necessary understanding of the spiritual battle that believers face and the endurance required to fulfill divine mandates.

Furthermore, Nehemiah's insistence on divine authorization showcases the balance of divine sovereignty and human action, illustrating the importance of aligning one’s mission with God’s will. He exemplifies a leader who does not falter in adversity but steadies his heart in quiet confidence, aware of the greater purpose guiding his efforts.

Concluding Thoughts

Albert Barnes: The narrative of Nehemiah illustrates the pivotal role of leadership in times of trouble. A godly leader acknowledges challenges yet remains vigilant, directing the people towards the work before them. Nehemiah stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with prayer, purpose, and persistence, even the most formidable obstacles can be overcome.

Matthew Henry: Ultimately, this passage serves as a reminder that while mockery may seek to deter, it is rooted in misunderstanding. Nehemiah’s experience urges believers to look beyond immediate ridicule, trusting instead in God’s overarching plan, and to proceed boldly in the work placed upon their hearts.