Nehemiah 8:1-6

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Revival, Renewal & Blessing

BACKGROUND NOTES

Any revival or renewal of God’s people will be centered around the Bible.
- The people requested that the Bible be brought and read (v1).
- The people listened from daybreak until noon (v3).
- The people were attentive (v3).
- They stood up (v5).

If you want revival in your Christian life, you must appreciate the Word of God.

What was the occasion for the people to gather in Jerusalem (see Leviticus 23.23-25).
What can you recall about Ezra?
What is the core or center for any revival or renewal of God’s people?
In this passage, there are four things that showed the great appreciation that people had for the Word of God. What are they?
What is a danger signal of spiritual trouble ahead for individuals and for churches?

The Feast of Trumpets.
Ezra was a scribe who returned to Jerusalem about thirteen years before Nehemiah returned. He was a great spiritual leader, motivating the people to set their hearts right before God.
The Word of God
They were united in wanting to hear the word of God; they listened from daybreak until noon; they were attentive; they stood the whole time the word was read to them.
A stronger emphasis on spiritual experiences, feelings, and spiritual highs than on hearing, studying, and following the Word of God.

Do you have the kind of appreciation for the Word of God that these people had? How do you evidence this in your life?
Did you have family devotions when you were growing up? If so, of what value are they in your life today? If not, how do you think they would have helped you? Do you have family devotions now, with everyone participating?

Do you read the Bible every day as necessary spiritual food? Do you set aside time to be quiet before the Lord? Resolve today to do this faithfully, to seek His will for your life and to walk in the way that He has set before you.