Nehemiah 13:22 And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates… Here is — I. An .appeal to God's approbation. Nehemiah often makes appeals of this kind. This was an appeal to God — 1. From man's judgment. He had engaged in an undertaking which was likely enough to appear contemptible in the eyes of his Persian acquaintance. But what then? It was for God's honour, and therefore he despises this shame, casting himself upon the approbation of God. This principle it was that influenced Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Paul. It is the principle of faith rendering an unseen God visible. Such men look for a future " recompense of reward" promised by Him who cannot lie. 2. From man's enmity. While one party satisfied themselves with despising, there was another party in Jerusalem itself who hated and opposed his proceedings. It is in reference to their enmity that the appeal of the text is made. Modern enmity. 3. From man's ingratitude. It was here that he found his greatest trial. How painful, when the very persons whom in God's name he sought to benefit were cold, reluctant, unfeeling! Nehemiah's was no solitary ease. You find in connection with this appeal — II. A CONTRITE PRAYER FOR GOD'S FORGIVENESS. 1. After all he has done for God's service, Nehemiah cannot forget that there is a load of original and actual sin, recorded against him for which no subsequent obedience can make satisfaction. 2. He finds even his religious actions so stained with sin that though he may appeal from man, he cannot make them a plea for merit before God. 3. He casts himself, with a steadfast faith, on the free grace and covenanted mercies of the Lord. Application: If the despised believer may thus appeal from man to God, what hope can there be for those who compel him so to do? (Joseph Jowett, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy. |
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