What did they find on a new occasion of reading the law, and what was the consequence? v. 1—3.
Where is this precept recorded and what was the reason of it? Deut. 23. 3—5. N. B. As this whole history of the return of the Jews from captivity, of their rebuilding the Temple, and restoring their ancient ritual, is doubtless typical of the glorious reformation that is to take place in the last ages of the world, this circumstance of separating the mixed multitude clearly points to the strictness which will then be exercised in maintaining a pure communion, and excluding all such from church fellowship as do not give evidence of belonging to the spiritual Israel. See Ezek. 44. 4—14.
What gross abomination had one of the chief men been guilty of, and how was the evil corrected? v. 4—9.
Where was Nehemiah at the time this impiety took place?
What other abuse had crept in among the people, and how did he proceed in effecting a reform? v. 10—13.
What prophet flourished about this time, who repeatedly refers to these abuses? Mal. 1. 9—14. and 3. 7—12.
Is the withholding maintenance from teachers of religion one of the surest methods of undermining its interests?
What instances of the profanation of the Sabbath did Nehemiah witness, and with whom and in what language did he expostulate? v. 15—18.
What did he do to prevent this enormity, and how did he supplicate the divine favor? v. 15—18.
Did he deem his good works as deserving a reward?
Is not the due observance of the holy Sabbath one of the last steps of reformation which will probably be effected in the Christian world?
What is the last instance recorded of the exercise of authority by Nehemiah, and upon whom especially was this act of discipline administered? N.B. The smiting and plucking off the hair here mentioned was not probably done by Nehemiah personally, but merely by his orders.
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