Nehemiah 2: Group Study Handout

Overview

Nehemiah was sad before King Artaxerxes, which made him afraid (vv. 1-2). The king noticed Nehemiah's sadness and asked why he was upset. Nehemiah then explained that Jerusalem lies in ruins (vv. 3-5). The king asked what Nehemiah wanted. Nehemiah prayed and requested to go to Judah to rebuild the city.

Key verse

“I told them of the hand of my God which was good on me, as also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. They said, “Let’s rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work.”

Nehemiah 2:18 (WEB)

Outline

1. Nehemiah 2:1–2 Nehemiah's Sadness Before the King
2. Nehemiah 2:3–5 Nehemiah's Request to the King
3. Nehemiah 2:6–8 King's Favor and Provision
4. Nehemiah 2:9–11 Arrival in Jerusalem
5. Nehemiah 2:12–16 Night Inspection of the Walls
6. Nehemiah 2:17–18 Gathering the People
7. Nehemiah 2:19–20 Opposition and Assurance

Discussion questions

1. In v3, what does Nehemiah say about the state of Jerusalem?
2. How does Nehemiah describe the king's reaction in v10 when he hears of his plans?
3. Why does Nehemiah pray 'to the God of heaven' in v4 before replying to the king?
4. In v18, what does Nehemiah mean by 'the hand of my God which was good on me'?
5. When have you experienced 'sorrow of heart' like Nehemiah in v2 that prompted action?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Nehemiah 2: Nehemiah 1, Ezra 7, 1 Samuel 23.

Before next time: read Nehemiah 3.