Dennis R. Wiles 

First Baptist Arlington 

September 22, 2024 

FALL 2024 

Together . . . for the Future 

September 1 – November 2, 2024 

Preaching Voice: Shepherd 

Planning and Zoning 

Ezra 5:1-2; Nehemiah 2:17-18 

Theme for 2024: Together 

Theme for Fall 2024: Together . . . for the Future 

Lessons for Re-Building (or Building) 

-Kneeology: We must begin with prayer! 

-You Are Here: We must accept an honest assessment! 

CONTEXT: In Ezra 3, Zerubbabel and Joshua led Israel to begin the re-construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. They gathered materials and assembled the construction team. After the foundation was laid, opposition to the project mounted and the work ceased for 16 years. Finally, the re-building project began again! In Nehemiah 2, Nehemiah inspires the leaders of Jerusalem to come together and re-build the wall around the city. 

LESSONS TO BE LEARNED 

1. “Resolve” is the secret sauce in the journey of re-building. 
2. As believers, we draw upon the wisdom, guidance, and inspiration we receive from our God. 
3. Re-building requires individual tenacity as well as community support. 
4. Re-building is not a seamless enterprise ----- we should expect setbacks. 
5. A dream is not a plan. Re-building requires careful planning and implementation.