Faith in the Face of Danger

A study of the book of Nehemiah and a practical guide to determined faithfulness in Christian discipleship. One of the most common temptations facing Christians today is simply to give up. Discouragement is one of the greatest weapons of the enemy. The book of Nehemiah shows us what it means to live by God's priorities, and to sustain our Christian service with faithfulness and determination against all kinds of odds. It is not simply a story of the heroic faith of an individual, but the building of God's people, and it has strategic lessons for Christian faith and community today. Supported by questions and practical suggestions for individuals and groups, it addresses a range of themes which are just as urgent for Christians now as they were for God's people in Jerusalem in Nehemiah's day, as the people returned not just to rebuild the wall but to rebuild their identity and community life. They include such fundamental issues as God's purposes and priorities for Christian discipleship and and the challenges of living as God's distinct people. But most of all the book of Nehemiah represents a call to know God more fully - the foundation for faith in the face of danger.Each chapter contains: - Aims - Exposition - Study Group Ideas - Study Questions - Reflection and Response

Christians the world over are under pressure, facing difficulties and dangers of all kinds. Nehemiah was raised up to lead God’s people at a critical moment, and the story of his practical realism and courageous faith is vital for Christians today. Providing an overview of the Nehemiah story, this book explains the critical importance of choosing God’s priorities and truly hearing and responding to God’s word. It tackles essential themes for Christian living, including how we can know God’s protection under pressure, how we can build Christian community, and how we must live by God’s standards. Faith in the Face of Danger is structured with sections and subsections that provide a clear set of preaching units that will serve preachers in building a sermon series but this is also an ideal book for individual or group use with questions, discussion points, ideas for action and further study suggestions.