NUMBER SIX (6-7)

(Message by Tanny Keng)

0. Introduction

a) The number 6 symbolizes man and human weakness, the evils of Satan and the manifestation of sin. Man was created on the sixth day. Men are appointed 6 days to labor. A Hebrew slave was to serve 6 years and be released in the 7th year. Six years were appointed for the land to be sown and harvested. The number 6 is associated with Satan in his temptation of Jesus. It is interesting to note what other mention(s) for 6 can be found in the Bible.

1. What is man's six-fold opposition to God's work?

a) The six-fold opposition to the work of God on the part of man is seen in the opposition to Nehemiah. It forms a lesson for all time, being played out every day where anyone, like Nehemiah, begins a work for God.

b) Nehemiah experienced from those who opposed him:

i) Grief, Nehemiah 2:10.

ii) Laughter, Nehemiah 2:19.

iii) Wrath, indignation, and mocking, Nehemiah 4:1-4.

iv) Fighting and open opposition, Nehemiah 4:7,8.

v) Conference, Nehemiah 6:1,2. - "Come and let us meet together." "Let us take counsel together" (verse 7). This attempt was to "weaken them from the work" (verse 9). But Nehemiah refused to parley with the enemies, or meet them in conference.

vi) False friends, Nehemiah 6:10-14. - Here was the greatest danger of all. Satan, "as an angel of light" seeking to mar, and hinder, and stop the work.

c) The careful study of these 6 steps in man's opposition to the work of God will yield great spiritual profit, and arm us against the wiles of the Devil.

The End ...