A new beginning
RECAP: The Book of Haggai
As a church we are learning about what matters most from the book of Haggai, written by the prophet named Haggai. He was a conduit of God’s word to the Jewish people (the Israelites), and in particular, the Jewish leaders. Chapter 1 introduced notable figures of authority namely King Darius; Shealtiel, the Govenor of Judah; his son, Zerubbabel; Jehozadak, the high priest and his son; Joshua. Haggai confronted the Jews for neglecting the Lord’s temple which lay in ruins since the invasion of the Babylonians in Jerusalem (c.586 BC).
“Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house [the temple] remains a ruin? - Haggai 1:3
Clearly, what mattered most to the Jews was not the rebuilding of the temple which symbolised God’s presence dwelling among his people. Because of their spiritual lethargy the Jews lived fruitless lives despite all their efforts (v.6; 9-11). Finally, the fear of the Lord rested on the “remnant of the people” (v.12) ushering them into obedience. Their spirits were stirred and they began to rebuild the Lord’s temple. During this time, the Israelites grew discouraged as they remembered the former glory of God’s temple. But we know that God is an almighty and loving father, for he admonished his people to “be strong, all you people of the land…and work. For I am with you” (Haggai 2:4). God gave them hope, and led the remnant of believers into repentance and a renewed relationship with Him. God never forsook to remind his people of what mattered more than simply rebuilding the temple: the desire of our hearts to live in holiness for him. But what does this look like? A born-again life is reflected by being in right relationship with God.
“The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house”, says the Lord Almighty, “And in this place I will grant peace” - Haggai 2:9
Last Sunday we concluded the book of Haggai (2: 20-23) with a reminder of God’s sovereignty. To be sovereign means to have supreme rule, and this quality is reflected in God as he appoints Zerubbabel to become a symbolic signet ring. A signet ring was engraved uniquely for kings and is akin to a modern-day signature; equivalent to conveying approval or agreement when stamped. Jehoiakim and his son, Jehoiachin (Coniah in Hebrew) were kings despised by and subjected to God’s wrath, and even still God chose to make Zerubbabel, their descendent, “like a signet ring” (v.23).
“As surely as I live,” declares the Lord, “even if you, Jehoiachin son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, were a signet ring on my right hand, I would still pull you off” - Jeremiah 22:24
God cleanses the past, and covers it with his goodness. He is a God of new beginnings and is committed to prevailing His divine plans for his people. Zerubbabel is later mentioned in Matthew chapter 1, as being in the lineage leading to the Messiah, Jesus Christ. We wrap up the book of Haggai by being redirected to the overarching message - what truly matters the most in life, on earth and in heaven, is Jesus and his gospel (good news). Christians today can read Haggai and be realigned to focus on figuratively rebuilding the temple with our lives, by living in holy and right relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ.
PRAYER
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank you for your sovereignty and grace. I know that nothing I do out of my own strength can repay the price of your sacrifice, and so I praise you. I thank you for the book of Haggai and for teaching us the importance of repentance, holy living and being in right relationship with you. I ask for your forgiveness for it is easy to mistake what matters most.
In your holy name,
Amen