Commentary on Nehemiah 9:36
Verse Text: "Behold, we are servants this day, and for the land that thou gavest unto our fathers to eat the fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we are servants in it."
Historical Context
This verse comes from a pivotal moment during the post-exilic period of Israel's history. Nehemiah leads the people in a confession of their sins and a remembrance of God's faithfulness. They acknowledge their current state of servitude—not merely to God but to the foreign powers of their time, a situation they attribute to their own disobedience and the consequences of their forefathers' transgressions.
Exegesis and Analysis
Servitude Recognized
Matthew Henry's Commentary: Henry interprets the phrase "we are servants this day" as a profound acknowledgment of the people's condition. They recognize their servitude not only as a physical reality but as a spiritual state. He emphasizes that this servitude is a result of their sin and disobedience, which led them to be under the yoke of foreign rulers.
Albert Barnes' Notes: Barnes elaborates on the notion of servitude, highlighting that while they are physically subject to foreign governance, their ultimate servitude should be considered in terms of their relationship with God. He indicates that faithful servitude to God often comes with the recognition of one's earthly bonds and challenges.
Adam Clarke's Commentary: Clarke discusses the gravity of being servants in their own land. He reflects on the irony of the situation: they were called to inherit the land promised to their ancestors, yet they find themselves dominated and dependent. Clarke points out that spiritual insight must accompany this physical reality—knowing that through repentance and faith they can reclaim their full blessing.
The Land and its Implications
The text emphasizes the significance of the land, which was not merely a physical territory but a representation of God's promise and covenant with His people. This aspect invites deeper theological reflection:
- Covenantal Theology: The acknowledgment of servitude in the land underscores the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. The land was promised to the forefathers, creating a historical obligation and a setting for God's revelation.
- Spiritual Application: The people’s confession invites believers today to consider their dependencies and allegiances. The call to servitude can also be seen as an invitation to voluntarily dedicate oneself to God's service, rather than being coerced by circumstances.
- Redemptive History: The recognition of servitude foreshadows the ultimate liberation promised through the Messiah—a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, culminating in the New Testament where Christ declares His followers free through His sacrifice.
Theological Reflections
Servitude to God versus Bondage to Sin
As the people lament their status as servants to foreign rulers, there's a duality presented: the servitude of the body versus the freedom of the spirit. They are reminded that true freedom comes from serving God wholeheartedly. This theme connects to Pauline theology, where Paul often identifies himself as a servant (or slave) of Christ (Romans 1:1).
Learning from History
Henry encourages readers to look back on history to learn from past mistakes. The people’s current predicament is a direct result of their predecessors' failures to uphold the covenant. Hence, current generations must engage in true worship and obedience to avoid repeating the same cycles of disobedience. This call resonates deeply with pastoral teachings on the importance of repentance and the fostering of faith in community.
The Nature of God’s Provision
Despite their servitude, the people acknowledge that God has provided for them—the fruits of the land are noted as "the good thereof." In this recognition, there is a powerful theological understanding: even in difficult times, God's provision remains evident. This serves as a reminder that believers are called to steward God’s gifts wisely and to find sustenance in His promises, even amidst hardship.
Conclusion
Nehemiah 9:36 stands as a powerful testimony of a community in recognition of their failures and an acknowledgment of their reliance on God. For pastors, students, and scholars, it highlights the dual realities of servitude—earthly and divine—and invites reflection on one's relationship with God. As believers navigate through their own challenges, this passage challenges them to reassess their status as servants: Are they following God wholeheartedly, or simply enduring their circumstances?
In a world filled with various forms of servitude and bondage, this verse has much to teach about the nature of true freedom, faithfulness, and the grace of God that sustains His people.
