Ezra-Nehemiah focus on infrastructure, group identity and security, as a way to build "confidence in the future", and about establishing their communal identity. They have been exiles, who will they be now. The projects give them purpose and also security in building a new community.
The reforms of Ezra-Nehemiah show strength in being able to be a free people and yet still be occupied by a foreign power, skillfully navigating this balance. There is also the strength of organization, management and administration to carry out such projects.
The weaknesses that their reforms bring on include enslavement of their own people to get the work done, exploitation by the leaders during Nehemiah's leadership, and an excessive use of lists that lead an atmosphere of "being watched by authorities."
The modern church like in Ezra-Nehemiah's time can become too focused on the building, but they can learn from their mistakes and keep focused on community outreach and impact that builds community inside and outside the church building.