Alan Fong
3 min read
Alan Fong
3 min read
Alan Fong
3 min read
The Old Gate
Today’s Verse:
Moreover the old gate repaired Jehoiada the son of Paseah, and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah; they laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof. ~Nehemiah 3:6
Nehemiah 3 encourages us about the importance of teamwork. In this chapter, we see the men of Jerusalem cooperating together in repairing the gates, beams, and locks. In addition to the cooperation of the people, our attention is also called to the ten gates. Gates are access points and entry ways. Each gate has a special meaning. This morning, we see “the Old Gate.”
We see the meaning.
The Old Gate is symbolic of established biblical doctrine, truth, and practices. Jeremiah refers to “the old paths, where is the good way.” Solomon refers to this as the ancient landmarks which are not to be removed. Jude calls it “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” Some think that “old” is outdated, obsolete, and irrelevant. However, the Old Gate refers to that which is proven, profitable, and pertinent. Don’t neglect the Old Gate truths. Be careful of succumbing to a pragmatic philosophy that erringly replaces the Old Gate truths.
We see the mending.
We see the Old Gate under repair. It had been burned more than seventy years prior. Until it was repaired, this access point left the city vulnerable. We must identify the areas in our life where the Old Gate has been compromised and left weakened or broken. After we have identified the weakness, we must set about to lay the beams and set up the doors, the locks, and the bars. We must remove the debris and strengthen the gate with proven material. This means we must build our foundation with the Word of God. God’s truths are timeless, eternal, and infallible. When we build upon God’s Word, it will withstand the storms and winds of change.
We see the men.
We see the key men who took charge of the repair of the Old Gate. Jehoiada means “Jehovah knows.” Meshullam means “friend.” These two men trusted in the wisdom of God for the rebuilding of the Old Gate. They understood the principle that two cannot walk together except they be agreed. They were friends who had the same conviction about God’s Word and God’s way. Even though it was just the two of them, they joined hands in labor to build the Old Gate. I am thankful that there were the seven thousand who had not bowed their knees to Baal. I am thankful for the faithful few who are courageous and say, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” They were like Caleb and Joshua who said, “We are well able.”
We see the mission.
Today, we face a continued and increasing attack on the Old Gate. Our mission is to hold fast that which we have. We will experience the disappointment of some who will be moved by the winds of compromise and capitulation. We will see setbacks because of laws being passed that are hostile to our beliefs. Regardless, our mission is to win souls and contend for the faith. Fundamental doctrines and truths are not up for discussion about change and compromise. Proven methods of reaching sinners and building the church must be maintained. Be focused on promoting fundamental doctrines and practices. Strengthen the things that remain and are ready to die. Having done all, continue to stand for the Lord. Don’t let the Old Gate fall into disrepair. Find your place on the wall and let us build together!
Have a steadfast God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: 2 Chronicles 9-12
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