Don't Be Tobiah

As we wrap up our study of Nehemiah this week we are going to look at 3 men who are named as enemies of the work which God is doing among his people.

God had such a magnificent plan and work in store for Nehemiah but as I am sure you are well aware God’s work is never finished without interference form the enemy.

Three men stood opposed Nehemiah, and as we look at who they are they stand representative of the present-day enemies of the gospel.

Who are these conspirators?

Sanballat the Horonite. His name means ''hate in disguise.''

Sanballat represents the wisdom of this world and its opposition to Christ and His gospel. Most organized religion hates Jesus Christ. Paul spoke of it as being a form of deception when he said, ''And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore, it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness, whose end shall be according to their works'' (2Cor 11:14-15).

Tobiah the Ammonite His name means ''the servant,'' or possibly, ''the Lord is good.''

He is a representative of those who make a formal profession of faith.

They have a good name but a bad heart.

While this man, Tobiah was a sort of puppet for his master Sanballat. We see that Tobiah had the ear of many of the leaders in the area and even in Jerusalem. And due to his connections he was able to work often behind the scenes to manipulate what was taking place in the temple and behind the city walls.

Finally, we see Geshem the Arab. This man's name means ''a violent shower.''

In the case of Nehemiah and his workers, he brought a shower of ridicule and criticism. Constantly mocking the work God was doing. We see men like this today who openly mock the things of God! 

As we look at these three men it would be easy to point fingers and say well this person is Tobiah and this person is Geshem or Sanballat but rather than pointing fingers at others I would challenge each of us to look at our own hearts and pray – God, am I Sanballat? Am I Tobiah? Am I Geshem?

Knowing where we truly stand in our relationship with God is essential to our obedience!

Everyone knew Sanballat and Geshem were enemies of God there was no secret there but Tobiah… Tobiah had everyone fooled – except Nehemiah (and God!)

Don’t be Tobiah today!

See ya Sunday!