Nehemiah 6:2 – “Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: ‘Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.’ But they were scheming to harm me.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Nehemiah 6:2 shows the next phase in the opposition against Nehemiah’s work of rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. At this point, the enemies of Nehemiah—Sanballat and Geshem—are becoming more desperate. Seeing that Nehemiah is nearing the completion of the wall, they try a new tactic: deception. They invite Nehemiah to meet them under the pretense of discussing matters in a peaceful way. However, Nehemiah, being wise and discerning, knows that their true intention is to harm him.
This verse highlights the importance of discernment when facing opposition. The enemies’ offer seems innocent on the surface, but their true motive is revealed to Nehemiah, allowing him to avoid their trap. It’s a powerful reminder that not all invitations or opportunities that seem well-intentioned are what they appear to be, especially when we are working for God’s purposes. Nehemiah’s refusal to meet with them shows his determination to stay focused on the task God has given him.
Historical Context
Nehemiah was leading the effort to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls after the city had been destroyed. He faced strong opposition from local leaders, like Sanballat and Geshem, who had political and personal reasons to oppose the restoration of Jerusalem. These leaders were not only seeking to stop the rebuilding but also to destabilize the growing strength of the Jewish community in the region.
The plain of Ono, mentioned in the verse, was located in a region somewhat distant from Jerusalem, making it an ideal location for Nehemiah’s enemies to ambush him away from the safety of his people. Their plan was to lure him out under the guise of peace, and then attack him when he was vulnerable. This historical setting emphasizes how political and personal interests often motivated opposition to God’s people throughout biblical history.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse speaks to the reality of spiritual warfare. When we are committed to God’s work, opposition is inevitable, and it often comes in subtle forms, like deceit or distraction. Sanballat and Geshem’s scheme represents the tactics that enemies of God’s people will use to derail His plans.
This also demonstrates that God gives His people the discernment and wisdom they need to navigate these challenges. Nehemiah’s ability to see through the deception wasn’t because of his own cleverness, but because he was in tune with God’s direction. The verse teaches that when we walk closely with God, He equips us to recognize and avoid traps laid by the enemy.
Literary Analysis
Nehemiah 6:2 is part of a larger narrative where the opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem intensifies as the work nears completion. The specific mention of Sanballat and Geshem underscores the continuity of opposition that Nehemiah has faced from the start. These are the same individuals who mocked and ridiculed the Israelites earlier, and now, as their direct attacks fail, they resort to cunning strategies.
The invitation to meet in the plain of Ono is presented as a plot twist. On the surface, the offer to meet seems innocent, even reasonable, but the writer quickly reveals the true intention: they were “scheming to harm” Nehemiah. This contrast between appearance and reality creates suspense and highlights the need for wisdom in leadership.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 10:16 – “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” This verse reflects the importance of being both wise and discerning when facing opposition.
- Ephesians 6:11 – “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Like Nehemiah, Christians are called to be aware of the schemes of the enemy and stand firm in God’s strength.
- 2 Corinthians 11:14 – “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” The deceitful nature of Sanballat and Geshem’s offer mirrors how evil can sometimes appear good, requiring spiritual discernment to see the truth.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Nehemiah 6:2 is a call to be vigilant and discerning, especially when we are working toward God’s purposes. The verse reminds us that the enemy will often try to distract or deceive us, especially when we are close to completing something significant for God. Just as Nehemiah stayed focused and did not allow himself to be lured away from his work, we must stay focused on God’s calling in our lives and not be swayed by distractions or deceit.
It also teaches that discernment is essential in our daily walk. Not every opportunity or invitation is from God, and we must seek His wisdom to discern what is right. Nehemiah’s example shows us that saying “no” to seemingly good offers can sometimes be the wisest choice when we sense that the motives behind them are wrong.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Nehemiah 6:2 shows God’s loving protection over His servant Nehemiah. Even in the midst of opposition, God gives Nehemiah the discernment and wisdom needed to see through the enemy’s schemes. God’s love is not only evident in how He directs our steps but also in how He warns and protects us from harm.
This verse reflects how God watches over His people, guiding them to avoid traps and stay on course. His love does not always shield us from opposition, but it does equip us with the wisdom and strength to overcome it. Nehemiah’s ability to detect the deceitful plot reveals God’s ongoing care for those who trust in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Nehemiah 6:2 connects to the life and mission of Jesus Christ in several ways. Like Nehemiah, Jesus faced persistent opposition throughout His ministry. Religious leaders constantly sought to trap Him in His words or actions (Matthew 22:15). However, Jesus, filled with divine wisdom, always saw through their schemes. This parallel highlights Jesus as the ultimate example of godly wisdom and discernment.
Additionally, the enemies’ plot to harm Nehemiah foreshadows the way Jesus’ enemies plotted to kill Him. Even as Jesus approached His crucifixion, He remained steadfast, knowing His purpose was to fulfill God’s will (John 10:18). Nehemiah’s determination to complete the wall despite opposition mirrors Jesus’ determination to complete the work of salvation, no matter the cost.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever faced situations where someone’s intentions were not what they appeared to be? How did you handle it?
- How can we grow in discernment and wisdom like Nehemiah, so that we recognize the schemes of the enemy?
- What distractions or deceptions do you face that could pull you away from what God is calling you to do?
- How does Nehemiah’s example encourage you to stay focused on God’s work, even when opposition arises?
- How does this passage remind you of Jesus’ ability to navigate opposition during His ministry, and how can that inspire your faith today?