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Gates of Nehemiah — The Dung Gate
“The dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the ruler of part of Bethhaccerem” (Nehemiah 3:14).
Repairing the Dung Gate must have been humbling for a ruler like Malchiah, but it was very necessary.
This gate reminds us of the need for self-judgment. The Dung Gate was the port from which they carried forth the filth, so that the city would not be defiled. So we read: “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). As believers we are called, not to uncleanness but to practical holiness. We are to cleanse ourselves, that is, to judge ourselves in the presence of God, and turn away from all sinfulness and that which defiles and dulls our souls. “Flee also youthful lusts” (2 Timothy 2:22). This is a needful exhortation in a world where people are following their own lusts and sinful appetites. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16). However, this should not be what characterizes a believer. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16).
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