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The People Demanded Worship

Writer's picture: Rev. Rob JonesRev. Rob Jones

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10

all the people gathered together into the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the Lord had given to Israel. 2 Accordingly, Ezra the priest brought the law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could hear with understanding. This was on the first day of the seventh month. 3 He read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand, and the ears of all the people were attentive to the book of the law. And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was standing above all the people, and when he opened it, all the people stood up. Then Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. Then they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. So they read from the book, from the law of God, with interpretation. They gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions of them to those for whom nothing is prepared, for this day is holy to our Lord, and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Luke 4:14-21

Then Jesus, in the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding region. 15 He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. 16 When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17  and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” 20 And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him.21 Then he began to say to them, “Today, this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”

 

In the sweltering heat of the summer of 1972, an ill-fated burglary at the Watergate Hotel unfolded, setting into motion a series of events that would culminate in the dramatic downfall of President Richard Nixon. As I read this passage, I couldn't help but think about the term "Watergate" and its enduring significance. This scandal not only ended a presidency but also wove a new thread into the fabric of our political discourse, forever altering the lives of those enmeshed in its wake. The suffix "-gate" now swiftly attaches itself to any nascent scandal, echoing through the corridors of power as a chilling reminder of past transgressions.

Yet, the name "Water Gate" bears the weight of another storied historical moment—one of spiritual resurgence and divine purpose. This tale is etched in the ancient scrolls of the Old Testament, in the Book of Nehemiah. Here, a faithful remnant of Israel returns from exile, tasked with the monumental restoration of the once-majestic walls of Jerusalem. But the physical rebuilding was not the end; a profound moral and spiritual renewal was imperative. This remnant was called to rediscover their identity, to reforge their covenant, and to see themselves as people chosen and cherished by God.

In this convergence of political and spiritual narratives, the Water Gate stands as a symbol of both human frailty and divine redemption. It serves as a reminder that beyond the ashes of scandal and ruin lies the potential for renewal—a call to reflect, repent, and rise again in faithfulness to our higher calling. It invites us to consider our place within the eternal tapestry, guiding our steps toward righteousness and truth. Ezra, the scribe, is the pivotal figure. The Instruction from Moses is the essential document. His people call it the Torah. In this lesson, we see the people of God as active participants. The Spirit of God is the empowering force. What lessons can we derive from witnessing this experience as it is told in Nehemiah?

I.               We Must Listen to the Message

The Psalmist writes: (Psalm 119) Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. Happy are those who keep his decrees, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong but walk in his ways.” And he goes on to write, “How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to your word. 10 With my whole heart I seek you; do not let me stray from your commandments. 11 I treasure your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against you.” (Ps. 119:1-3, 9-11 NRSVue) Then Paul reminds us that "Faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ." (Rom. 10:17 NRSVue).

In order for the Word of God to be believed, recalled, or embraced, it must first be heard. Karl Barth identified the Word of God in three forms: written, living, and preached. The significance of the preached Word within the worship setting should not be overlooked. (Barth 2001)[1] When we open ourselves to the Word proclaimed, we invite the Spirit of God to affect us in many ways. Similar to how the men and women of Israel dedicated hours to listening to the Word of God, we should also be prepared to devote the time, effort, and energy required to receive God's Word. After all, Jesus did say, "Let anyone with ears listen!" (Mat 11:15, Mat 13:9, Mat 13:43 NRSVue)

II.   We must react to the Word.

Kierkegaard once wrote that in worship, God is the audience, while we are the participants. This may be true for some in the congregation, but if we worship like those standing before Ezra, God is not simply a spectator; He is an active participant in our worship. Through His Spirit, we are renewed and transformed, and some are even healed by God’s power to redeem and reconcile. (Johnathan 2018)[2] As Ezra read the Law, the people of God responded with praise and agreement. Our hearts come alive through faith and the work of the Holy Spirit. We are freed from sin and self, enabling us to live for the praise and glory of God. Jesus said that true worshipers of God worship "in spirit and truth." The objective aspect of faith is the truth of God revealed in Christ, while the subjective aspect lies in our acceptance of that truth through our commitment response.

III.          We Need to Expand Our Understanding of God's Word More Completely.

The story of Ezra reading the Law provides a profound example of the power and necessity of communal worship among Christians today. When the people of Israel gathered to hear the reading of the Law, it wasn’t Nehemiah nor Ezra who initiated this act; instead, it was the community itself that demanded it. This scenario powerfully illustrates a fundamental truth about collective worship: it is driven by the shared desire for spiritual growth and connection. Do you share in that desire?

Just as the Israelites came together as one, reflecting their shared faith and commitment to God, modern Christians must engage in communal worship for similar reasons. Being part of a faith community offers support and fosters unity, creating a collective identity in Christ. The act of worshiping together allows for a shared experience that strengthens bonds among believers, reinforcing the idea that we are not alone in our faith journey. Just as the people in Nehemiah’s time felt a strong need to reconnect with their heritage and divine purpose, today’s Christians can find renewal and strength in gathering together, building a robust community centered on faith.

 

However, (and I must make this point) when worship is experienced through a screen—be it on TV, tablet, or phone—something vital can be lost. The dynamic of engagement shifts, turning participation into observation. In this setting, believers often become mere spectators rather than active participants in the worship experience. This spectator role can dilute the communal aspect of worship, making it easy to disengage from the spirit and energy that in-person gatherings provide. This, I believe, further pushes Pastor Johnathan’s point. (See footnote 2)

While virtual worship that some local churches offer may lend to convenience and accessibility, it often lacks the profound sense of connection that comes from being physically present with others—sharing in the collective prayers, songs, and moments of reflection. Without the immediate presence of fellow worshipers, the sense of community and shared spiritual experience diminishes, and it becomes easier for individuals to feel isolated in their faith journey. Engaging in communal worship fosters a vibrant atmosphere where the Spirit can move freely among the congregation, enhancing the richness of the worship experience. Therefore, while technology can provide a temporary substitute, it cannot replicate the depth and significance of coming together as a community of believers.

The Israelites' attentive listening is another crucial point that resonates with contemporary practices. Their eagerness to engage with the Word of God emphasizes the importance of being receptive and actively participating in spiritual growth. When the community collectively expressed the desire to hear the Scriptures, it demonstrated a commitment to spiritual engagement. This model serves as a potent reminder for Christians today: Spiritual growth flourishes in environments where believers come together not only to hear the Word but also to reflect on its significance and apply its teachings in their lives.

IV.          Jesus Sent to Reawaken Us. What Changed?

The gathering for the reading of the law in Nehemiah symbolizes a spiritual renewal for the Israelites, reaffirming their covenant with God after exile. At the same time, Jesus' proclamation in Luke signifies the beginning of a new phase of spiritual awakening after the people have long been onlookers during worship. Jesus’ ministry invites everyone to embrace a transformative relationship with God.

Nehemiah highlights a significant gathering of the people who seek to hear and comprehend the law, reflecting a deep desire for understanding similar to that of a new believer passionately pursuing their faith. In contrast, Luke’s passage illustrates Jesus’ teaching in the synagogue, where His message is met with resistance. Even when the truth is brutal to hear, God is unafraid to share it. As the saying goes, "The gospel is designed to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." If we’re not feeling one or the other, it suggests we might not be engaging with the message as we should.

In Nehemiah, the Levites encourage the people after they hear God’s law, teaching them and nurturing a deep sense of joy from their communal response. In contrast, in Luke’s narrative, when Jesus announces his mission, the people are caught off guard and unprepared for his unexpected message. Despite their resistance, Jesus stays resolute, understanding that his ministry is designed to reach individuals from all walks of life, not just a chosen few.

V.            What does it mean for us today?

Contrasting these two narratives brings to mind a few questions that all Christians should take to heart.

1.     How can we, as a community, better engage with and respond to the teachings of Scripture in our lives? What steps can we take to ensure that God’s word is an active part of our daily practice?

To engage more deeply with Scripture as a community, we can focus on proclaiming the Word of God, encourage Bible study groups, teach each other core doctrines through the study of catechisms, and incorporate Scripture into daily prayer and meditation. Additionally, we should actively participate in service and outreach, establish discipleship programs for accountability, and reflect on how Scripture influences our daily roles, ensuring that God’s Word remains central to our lives.

2.     In what ways can we rediscover our identity as children of God, individually and collectively, in light of the freedom and hope expressed in both Nehemiah and Jesus’ proclamation?

Rediscovering our identity as children of God involves understanding that this identity is rooted in our union with Christ, which is a gift of grace rather than something we achieve on our own. This perspective reflects the themes of restoration found in Nehemiah’s narrative and the hope expressed in Jesus' proclamation, reminding us that we are defined by God's redemptive work.

Emphasizing the significance of the church as a covenant community, we acknowledge that our journey is enriched through relationships grounded in grace and mutual encouragement. Ultimately, we must understand that living out our faith means embodying God’s love, grace, and justice in our daily lives, serving one another, advocating for the marginalized, and participating in God’s mission—not just on Sundays, but every day. This affirms our identity as beloved children of God.

3.     Lastly, and perhaps the hardest to hear, what personal or communal challenges or ‘scandals’ must we confront to advance toward spiritual renewal and empowerment? How can we encourage each other to find strength in the joy of the Lord as we pursue healing and rebuilding?

Confronting personal and communal challenges is essential for spiritual renewal, but it can be problematic due to humanity's fallen nature and the effects of sin. However, if we start by acknowledging our shortcomings and embracing God’s grace, we learn that confession brings our struggles into the light, allowing for healing and restoration through Christ (1 John 1:9).

To foster renewal, we should encourage one another by focusing on the joy of the Lord and our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness during tough times can inspire hope and unity. Practicing accountability, prayer, and studying Scripture together helps us tackle challenges with biblical truth.

Though confronting these challenges can be difficult, much like the Israelites who rebuilt Jerusalem, we depend on the Holy Spirit's empowerment to transform our hearts and communities. This allows us to flourish in faith as we work together to reconcile and renew our souls.

In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. AMEN.

 

Works Cited

Barth, Karl. 2001. DOGMATICS IN OUTLINE (SCM CLASSICS) KINDLE EDITION. London: SCM Canterbury Press Ltd.

Johnathan, Pastor. 2018. Audience of One: How We Kicked God off the Stage in Worship. May 26. Accessed January 7, 2025. https://followjonathan.com/2018/05/26/audience-of-one-how-we-kicked-god-off-the-stage-in-worship/?blogid=5941215&blogsub=confirming#subscribe-blog.

2011. NIV Study Bible. Grand rapids, MI: Zondervan.

2022. "NRSVue." NRSVue Holy Bible with Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan.

Powery, Emerson B., Stacy Davis, Mary F. Foskett, Brent A. Strawn , J. Todd Hibbard, Jennifer L. Kooseed, Davina C. Lopez, Henry W. Morisada Reitz, and Claudia Setzer, . 2024. The Westminster Study Bible. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press.

 

 


[1]. “Dogmatics in Outline,” a highly accessible Kindle resource, offers a concise interpretation of Karl Barth’s theology. It’s an excellent starting point for readers overwhelmed by his extensive “Church Dogmatics,” as it captures Barth’s essential elements in a straightforward format, making his theological insights easier to understand. It’s a valuable tool for engaging with Barth’s work without diving into its complexities.

[2] In “Audience of One: How We Kicked God Off the Stage in Worship,” Jonathan argues that contemporary worship practices often position God as a mere spectator, transforming worship into a performance rather than a heartfelt offering. This shift raises questions about our intentions behind songs and rituals. The author invites readers to reflect on the implications of relegating God to the sidelines, challenging us to reclaim worship where the divine is actively engaged and esteemed as the ultimate audience. See works cited for URL.

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