Nehemiah 7:64

These sought their register, among those that were reckoned by genealogie, but it was not found: therfore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood. Nehemiah 7:64 (KJV)

Historical Context: The book of Nehemiah is set during the period of Israel’s history when the Israelites had returned from exile in Babylon and were rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple. Nehemiah, the cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, was called by God to lead the rebuilding efforts and restore the spiritual life of the people.

The Purpose of the Genealogical Register: In Nehemiah 7, Nehemiah is in the process of organizing and registering the people who had returned from exile. The genealogical register was important because it helped establish the identity and lineage of the Israelites, particularly for those who were involved in the priestly duties. It ensures that only those who were qualified according to their ancestral lineage could serve as priests.

The Consequence of Missing Genealogical Records: Nehemiah 7:64 highlights a group of people who sought their register among those that were supposed to be counted by genealogy but could not find their records. As a result, they were considered polluted or ceremonially unclean and were excluded from the priesthood. This exclusion was not a punitive punishment but a necessary measure to maintain the purity and integrity of the priestly office.

Lessons and Spiritual Significance:

• a) Respect for Order and Accountability: The genealogical register demonstrates the importance of order, accountability, and adherence to God’s established requirements. It teaches us the value of maintaining proper records and structures in our lives, organizations, and churches to ensure orderliness and integrity.
• b) Spiritual Purity: The exclusion of those without genealogical records from the priesthood emphasizes the need for spiritual purity and qualification in serving God. It reminds us that God desires holiness and integrity in those who serve Him and carry out His work.
• c) God’s Faithfulness: While some people were unable to find their genealogical records, God’s faithfulness is not determined by human records or lineages. God looks at the heart and the sincerity of one’s devotion, encouraging us to focus on our relationship with Him rather than relying solely on external qualifications.
• d) Our Identity in Christ: As Christians, our identity is not solely defined by our genealogy or heritage but by our faith in Jesus Christ. In Him we become part of God’s family and are given the privilege to serve Him as a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Our worth and qualification come through Christ’s work of redemption, not through our own achievements.

In conclusion, Nehemiah 7:64 serves as a reminder of the importance of order, accountability, and spiritual purity in our lives. It teaches the significance of maintaining integrity and qualifications while emphasizing that our ultimate identity and worth are found in Christ, who enables us to serve God as His chosen people.