“It is reported among the nations—and Geshem says it is true—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and therefore you are building the wall.

New International Version Then, the fifth time, Sanballat sent his aide to me with the same message, and in his hand was an unsealed letter

Further Opposition to the Rebuilding - When word came to Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab and the rest of our enemies that I had rebuilt the wall.

For this reason he was hired, that I should be afraid and act that way and sin, so that they might have cause for an evil report, that they might reproach me.

6 In it was written, “It is reported among the nations, and Geshem1 also says it, that you and ethe Jews intend to rebel; that is why you are building the wall.

Moreover, according to these reports you are about to become their king and have even appointed prophets to make this proclamation about you in Jerusalem: ' ...

Nehemiah 6:5 Then, the fifth time, Sanballat sent his aide to me with the same message, and in his hand was an unsealed letter.

We want to study verses 5-9, and talk about "Avoiding and Overcoming Gossip". Let's read the passage to remind ourselves of the "story line."

Nehemiah lifted up his heart to Heaven in a short prayer. When, in our Christian work and warfare, we enter upon any service or conflict, this is a good prayer, ...

Chapter 6. 5In the same way Sanballat for the fifth time sent his servant to me with an open letter in his hand. 6In it was written, "It is reported among ...