Delegation of The Work Load

Nehemiah 3:1–14
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The task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem was so enormous that it called for great organization and the help of everyone. Nehemiah’s plan is unique and various aspects of this plan are outlined in this chapter. He begins with the Sheep Gate and proceeds counterclockwise. The map of Jerusalem in the times of Nehemiah shows the 10 gates and four towers mentioned in this chapter. It is interesting to note that the rebuilding process is inaugurated by Eliashib, the high priest and the other priests which rebuilt the Sheep Gate (v. 1). This would have been of particular interest to them, because animals were brought through this gate to the temple for sacrifice. The people of Jericho rebuilt the next section of the wall, and Zaccur son of Imri rebuilt the section after this (v. 2).

The city gates were hubs of activity. One of the main routes through Jerusalem entered the city at the Fish gate (v. 3). The fish market was near this gate. Other families did their part on the huge job of rebuilding the city wall (v. 4). However, not everyone was sympathetic to the cause of Nehemiah. The wealthy leaders of Tekoa did not participate in the building program (v. 5). They were lazy and would not put their effort to work.

Nehemiah assigned everyone a specific place in the wall to work (vv. 6-14). Many of these assignments were made near the people’s houses. Because of personal interest, this would make them more highly motivated.  It would also avoid the wasting of valuable travel time. Commuters also had a part and were assigned sections of the wall where there were few homes. Other workers were assigned jobs based upon their vocations.

Application

The work of the universal church requires the efforts of various members in order for the body of Christ to function properly (I Cor. 12:12-27). The question is whether I am doing my part. I need to find my place and fulfill my responsibility to the Lord and those He has placed over me.