it may be considered either as the close of the rst half or the opening of the second half of the book The reason for including 7:1-73a in the rst half of the book is that it more greatly emphasizes the aspect of physical security (cf 7:1-4), whereas at 7:736 the narrative begins to focus on building for spiritual security (cf 8:1) 14 The structure of the book of Nehemiah is very simple: two equal main parts, with each chapter adding a new point to the chapters preceding it Study the various two-part outlines 15 Relate the outlines on the chart to the suggested title 16 Scan the book once again with this survey chart in mind This will bring together in your mind the many unrelated observations which you may have made along the way IX PROMINENT SUBJECTS OF NEHEMIAH A PRAYERS Prayer is prominent throughout the book of Nehemiah Study especially the prayer of 1:4-11, noting confession, claim, plea, and underlying tone Then make a comparative study of these references to prayer: 1:4-11; 2:4; 4:4-5, 9; 5:19; 6:9, 14; 13:14, 22, 29, 31 (chaps 1-7) The historians Ezra and Nehemiah have recorded for us practically all that is known of Jewish history during the restoration period from 538 to 425 B.C Nehemiah’s contribution was the rsthand account of the part he played, especially in the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, a project not accomplished during the years covered by the book of Ezra B BUILDING PROJECTS It all began for Nehemiah while he was serving as cupbearer in the palace of Artaxerxes, king of Persia When Nehemiah received news of the a iction and reproach of the Jewish remnant in Judah, and the most recent desolation of Jerusalem’s walls and gates, his heart burned with a sense of urgency that something must be done How God stirred Nehemiah to lead his fellowmen in rebuilding what had been broken down— the city’s walls, but, more important, the city’s faith—is told in these chapters Use the following outline as you study the narrative: I Work Begins (3:1-32) II Work Continues Despite Opposition (4:1—6:14) A Opposition from Without (4:123) B Opposition from Within (5:1-19) ... the years covered by the book of Ezra B BUILDING PROJECTS It all began for Nehemiah while he was serving as cupbearer in the palace of Artaxerxes, king of Persia When Nehemiah received news of. .. of Jewish history during the restoration period from 538 to 425 B.C Nehemiah’s contribution was the rsthand account of the part he played, especially in the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, a... PROMINENT SUBJECTS OF NEHEMIAH A PRAYERS Prayer is prominent throughout the book of Nehemiah Study especially the prayer of 1:4-11, noting confession, claim, plea, and underlying tone Then make a comparative