Haggai 2:1-9

The future glory of the Temple -- Haggai 2:1-9: The message of Haggai two was delivered to the same people as the earlier message. It was given to "Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest and to the Jewish people. The prophet asked, "Does anyone remember how glorious this temple used to be?" He wanted them to look at it now and understand that its glory and beauty was nothing to compare to that of Solomon's Temple. The thing that God did want them to understand was that the all-powerful Lord was there to help them in their work and to bless their efforts. This should cheer their hearts. When the Lord is with us there is no reason to fear. "Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid." (Mark 6:50) If you are discouraged stooped listening to others and start listening to the promises of God! God had promised the Jews, "My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest." (Exodus 33:14) We enjoy the same promise of God's presence with us today if we will be faithful to God. Concerning the first temple David encouraged Solomon, "Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD." (1 Chronicles 28:20)

God shook the heavens with His presence during the giving of the Law. (Exodus 19-20) He promised to again shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. In Hebrews 12:26 this verse is quoted and the application that is made is that we who are in Christ have an unshakable kingdom that will endure forever. The Lord promised, "The brightness of my glory will fill this temple." Simeon referred to the infant Jesus as "the glory of your people Israel." (Luke 2:32) Silver and gold was not what made the Temple glorious but rather the presence of the Redeemer. God promised, "In this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts." Observe how Jesus is identified in Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)