Nehemiah 13:15-31
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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS
Being Holy
BACKGROUND NOTES
DOCTRINAL POINT(S)
The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
Children get mixed signals in a mixed marriage.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
Do whatever it takes to be holy.
Never think you’re so strong or so blessed that you can’t fall into sin.
QUESTIONS
On his return to Jerusalem, Nehemiah corrected three specific areas of failure. What were they?
What are the principles of the Sabbath?
What happened because of “mixed marriages” in Nehemiah’s day?
What happens to children of “mixed marriages”?
Define the word “holy.” List some scriptural references for being holy.
The nation of Israel was one kingdom until about 950BC. Which of the kings of the United Kingdom fell into sin, although they were considered strong and blessed?
ANSWERS
A lack of support of the Lord’s servants; intermarriage with non-believers; and the problem of failing to keep the Sabbath a holy day.
Rest and worship
Although prohibited by God’s law, the people intermarried and brought problems on themselves, particularly because the word of God became diluted.
Because they get mixed signals in spiritual matters and because the home is not Christ-centered, the children are less likely to get biblical training and godly example. The Lord wants His Word to characterize our homes and be clearly and consistently taught to our children (see Deuteronomy 11:18-20). In a “mixed marriage” it is nearly impossible to obey this command, and the children lose the benefit of a strong godly heritage.
“Holiness” is separation from sin in every form, and positive dedication to God. See 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 3:11; Hebrews 12:14.
All three of them – Saul, David, and Solomon.
DISCUSS/CONSIDER
Some young people say that their boyfriend/girlfriend will come to church and be saved after they are married. How would you counsel them?
1 Corinthians 10:12 tells us to take heed lest we fall. Does this apply to you? How do you take heed?
CHALLENGE
Do you have a desire to be more holy, more dedicated to God? What would it take to make you more holy? Are you willing to submit to whatever it would take?
KEY VERSES
“Just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” 1 Peter 1:15