Reconciling the Difference
Pastor Jon Burdine · Sunday School · October 11, 2026 Introduction: Keep the work of God moving forward The blessings we receive in God’s presence are meant to reach beyond the church building. Like a sponge that absorbs water and then puts it to use, believers must carry what they have received to people who need help. But God’s work faces more than outside opposition. As Jerusalem’s walls were being rebuilt, Nehemiah discovered injustice and division among his own people. These problems needed to be confronted and corrected so the work could continue.
Read Nehemiah 5:1–13 in the KJV- 01
The Chilling Revelation
- Families were struggling to obtain food, paying the king’s tribute, and mortgaging their homes and lands. Some of their children had been brought into bondage.
- Wealthier brethren were benefiting from their neighbors’ hardship through lending practices that deepened their suffering.
- Nehemiah discovered that the people rebuilding the walls also needed restoration within their own community.
- Unresolved wrongs, resentment, and bitterness can damage fellowship and hinder God’s work. Problems should be addressed before they grow into greater division.
Scripture: Nehemiah 5:1–5.
- 02
The Chosen Response
- Nehemiah was angry when he heard the people’s cries, but he first considered the situation before confronting those responsible.
- He rebuked the nobles and rulers. Their position did not excuse their wrongdoing or place them beyond correction.
- He called for more than peaceful words: the harmful practices had to stop, and property and resources had to be restored.
- A church has many people serving in different ways. Like oil protecting an engine’s moving parts, the Holy Ghost helps believers work together without destructive friction.
Scripture: Nehemiah 5:6–11.
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The Cheerful Reaction
- Those confronted accepted correction and promised to restore what they had taken. They did not merely agree—they fulfilled their promise.
- Restored homes, resources, and families gave the people reason to rejoice. Reconciliation mattered alongside the rebuilding of the walls.
- Unity brings blessing to God’s people. Humbly acknowledging a wrong, asking forgiveness, and making things right can restore damaged fellowship.
- Jesus teaches that forgiveness is serious. We must not cherish bitterness while expecting forgiveness for our own trespasses.
Scriptures: Nehemiah 5:12–13; Psalms 133:1–3; Matthew 6:14–15.
Closing Challenge
Ask God for the courage to reconcile differences rather than allowing them to grow. Where you have wronged someone, take responsibility, seek forgiveness, and make things right. Where hurt has taken root, ask the Lord to help you forgive.
Let the blessings of revival continue through restored relationships, genuine unity, and service to others. The work of God must go on.