Nehemiah 7:59: “The temple servants: the descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Nehemiah 7:59 lists four groups of temple servants: the descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon. These individuals were part of the Nethinim, a group assigned to assist the priests and Levites in the temple. The temple servants were responsible for various practical tasks necessary to ensure that the temple functioned smoothly, such as preparing the temple for worship, helping with sacrifices, and maintaining the grounds. Even though their roles were not as visible as those of the priests, their service was essential to the daily worship life of Israel.
The listing of these families in Nehemiah 7 shows the diversity of those who contributed to the functioning of the temple. It emphasizes that God values faithful service from every person, regardless of the size or visibility of their role.
Historical Context
The historical background of Nehemiah 7:59 takes place after the Jewish people returned to Jerusalem from exile in Babylon. The city and temple had been destroyed by the Babylonians, and upon their return, the people had to rebuild both the physical structures and their religious practices. Nehemiah led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, and part of that effort included restoring the temple and its functions. The temple servants, like the descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon, played an important role in reestablishing temple worship.
The Nethinim had been established long before the exile. Their role in assisting the Levites dated back to the time of King David or even earlier. Over time, their descendants continued to serve in the temple, and after the exile, they returned to Jerusalem to resume their duties. Their faithfulness in returning and serving God in this way reflects a deep commitment to maintaining the spiritual life of the nation.
Theological Implications
Nehemiah 7:59 underscores the value of every person’s contribution to God’s work, no matter how humble or behind the scenes it may be. The descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon were temple servants, working in the background to support the worship life of Israel. This teaches us that in God’s eyes, all service is valuable. Whether we are leading or serving quietly, God honors faithfulness in every task He has called us to.
Additionally, this verse speaks to the idea that God uses people from all walks of life in His service. The temple servants likely came from different backgrounds, but they were all called to serve in the temple. This reminds us that God calls and equips each of us to play a unique role in His kingdom, and every contribution is significant.
Literary Analysis
Nehemiah 7:59 is part of a larger genealogical list that records the families and groups who returned from exile to help rebuild Jerusalem and restore temple worship. These lists serve both historical and theological purposes. Historically, they document the people who participated in the restoration of the temple and the nation. Theologically, they highlight the importance of every person’s role in the worship and life of the community. The specific mention of the descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon shows that even those who served in humble roles were vital to the functioning of the temple.
The inclusion of these families in the biblical record highlights that God values and remembers every act of service, no matter how small or unnoticed it may seem.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Ezra 2:58: This passage lists the temple servants, including many of the same families mentioned in Nehemiah, showing their ongoing role in supporting the worship life of Israel.
- 1 Chronicles 9:2: This verse mentions the Nethinim (temple servants) as part of the community that returned to Jerusalem, highlighting their essential role in maintaining the daily functions of the temple.
- Romans 12:4-8: Paul teaches that each member of the body of Christ has different gifts and roles, but all are important for the functioning of the church, just as the temple servants were important in their specific tasks.
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-27: This passage explains that every member of the body of Christ is vital, reflecting how the temple servants contributed to the overall worship and function of the temple.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Nehemiah 7:59 serves as a reminder that every act of service in the kingdom of God is valuable. The descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon were temple servants who played a critical role in supporting the priests and Levites, even though their work was not as visible. In the same way, many Christians today serve in roles that may not be public, but these acts of service are just as important in supporting the mission of the church. This verse encourages us to embrace every opportunity to serve, knowing that God values our faithfulness, no matter how big or small the task may seem.
Additionally, this verse highlights the importance of working together as a community. Just as the temple servants worked alongside the priests and Levites to support the worship life of Israel, Christians today are called to work together, each using their unique gifts to serve one another and build up the body of Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Nehemiah 7:59 reflects God’s love in the way He values every person’s contribution. God’s love is not reserved for those in leadership roles; He honors and cares for those who serve in less visible ways as well. The descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon were essential to the functioning of the temple, and their faithfulness was remembered by God.
God’s love is also evident in the way He invites all people to participate in His work. The temple servants were not from the priestly class, but they were given the privilege of serving in the temple. This shows that God’s love is inclusive—He values and invites everyone to serve Him, regardless of their background or status.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Nehemiah 7:59 connects to Jesus Christ through the theme of humble service. Jesus taught that greatness in God’s kingdom comes through serving others. In Mark 10:45, Jesus said that He came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. The temple servants, like the descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon, exemplified this kind of humble service by faithfully supporting the worship of God through their practical tasks.
Jesus also taught that no act of service is too small to be important in God’s eyes. In John 13:1-17, Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, demonstrating that even the most humble tasks are valuable when done with a heart of love and service. The descendants of these temple servants point forward to the way Jesus calls His followers to serve one another in humility, just as He served us.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Nehemiah 7:59 encourage you to value even the small acts of service in your life or in your church?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of being faithful in the tasks God has given you, even if they seem less visible or significant?
- How can you contribute to the life of your church or community, just as the temple servants contributed to the worship life of Israel?
- How does this verse remind you of God’s love for all people, regardless of their role or status in the community?
- How does the humble service of the temple servants in this verse point you toward Jesus’ example of serving others?
Nehemiah 7:59 teaches us that every role in the kingdom of God is important, no matter how small or behind-the-scenes it may seem. Just as the descendants of Shephatiah, Hattil, Pokereth-Hazzebaim, and Amon served faithfully in the temple, we are called to serve faithfully in whatever tasks God has given us. This verse encourages us to value every act of service, knowing that God sees and appreciates our faithfulness. Ultimately, this verse points us to Jesus, who modeled perfect service by giving His life for us, and who calls us to follow His example of humble and faithful service.