Finished Reading: “Spirit of Laws”

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  Finished reading the 1752 edition of “The Spirit of Laws” by Charles de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieux. This concludes the 10th reading in the “The Development of Political Theory and Government” reading guide. A few highlights and timely observations: Montesquieux notes this work took 20 years to write, the product of careful study of mankind and the absolutes of self-evident truth. He held that a republic should be a small state, consisting of people who can manage because they are familiar with one another. A large state, or empire would be despotic while an intermediate state should be monarchical. He also held that mankind should make every effort to maintain peace but be ready for war, if necessary—and ready to restore peace. Public voting is necessary (show of hands) whereas secret ballots lead to fraud.   This translation was clear and the assisting footnotes provided helpful commentary. 

Nehemiah: Motivator and Mobilizer

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Nehemiah met opposition head-on, giving it no chance to get a foot-hold nor give it any room to grow. His response was swift and direct. He was able to do so because: 

Nehemiah defined his mission. Nehemiah came to repair a wall. “Let us rise up and build” (2:18). When the opposition came casting doubt asking, “what is this thing that you are doing?” (2:19), he was able to answer them, “The God of heaven Himself will prosper us; therefore we His servants will arise and build.” (2:20b)

Nehemiah narrowed his focus. His critics have no heritage, right or memorial in the city (2:20c) but with a defined mission in mind, Nehemiah focused on his target and let nothing distract him from hitting it (3:1-32). Nehemiah’s focus was so narrow that he was able to name those who were rightfully there to support the mission. 

Nehemiah set a guard. Nehemiah protected his workers and their work. (Neh. 4:9-23) Any difficult endeavor tends to weaken just after the half-way mark. Strength was failing and their adversaries were noticing. Nehemiah weaponizes the people according to their families and encourages their renewed vigor, “do not be afraid of them . . . remember the Lord . . . fight . . . the work is great . . . wherever you hear the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.” (4:14, 19-20)

Nehemiah disarmed his enemies. (Neh. 5-6). In the sight of growing extortion (4:1-8) Nehemiah simplifies the battlefield by disarming his enemies through swift answers to every distraction with a mission-based response (6:3, 8, 11). He had no time for opposition.

Nehemiah did what others would not. (Neh. 5:8-19) Nehemiah works alongside the people, even giving sacrificially of his own stores and personal wealth to redeems (5:8), provides (5:10), relieves (5:14-15), works alongside (5:16) and shares (5:17-18), all motivated by his love for God (5:15)


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