Restoration, Glory and Blessings: The Message of Haggai 2

Haggai 2 serves as an inspiring testament to God's enduring commitment to His people. Despite the challenges and discouragements faced by the Israelites, the Lord promised a future filled with glory and blessings. This chapter reminds us to remain faithful, obedient and hopeful in our journey with God.

Renewed Glory (Verses 1-9)

In the seventh month, the word of the Lord came to Haggai, instructing him to ask the elders of the people about the former glory of the temple. God, acknowledging their disappointment with the present state of the rebuilt temple, reassures them that the future glory of this temple will surpass that of the former. He promises to fill this place with peace and prosperity.

Defilement and Blessing (Verses 10-19)

In the ninth month, God speaks again through Haggai. He questions the priests about the law, demonstrating how defilement is contagious but holiness is not. He likens this to the people's works and offerings that were unacceptable due to their disobedience in rebuilding the temple. However, now that they have recommitted to this task, God promises to bless them henceforth.

God's Promises to Zerubbabel (Verses 20-23)

In a final prophecy, God assures Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, that He will overthrow the thrones of kingdoms and destroy the might of the kingdoms of the nations. In the midst of these dramatic changes, Zerubbabel is chosen by God as His signet ring, indicating that he is a trusted servant.

Haggai 2, the final chapter of the book, is a powerful discourse that reinforces God's promises of restoration and glory. The prophet Haggai delivers the Lord's message to Zerubbabel, Joshua, and the remnant of the people, reminding them of the significance of obedience, faith, and God's unfailing promises.

God's Promised Glory
Faithfulness to God's Law
Defilement and Blessing
Divine Assurance and BlessingThe rebuilding of the temple
The former glory versus the future glory of the temple
Defilement and purification
God's promises to ZerubbabelHaggai the Prophet
Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel
Joshua, son of Jozadak, the high priest
The remnant of the peopleJerusalem
The Temple

1. How does the message of Haggai 2 relate to the concept of patience and trust in God's timing?

2. Compare and contrast the glory of the former temple with the future glory promised by God. What does this say about God’s ability to bring restoration?

3. How does God use the example of the law of defilement to make a point about the people’s offerings?

4. How does the theme of obedience emerge in this chapter? How is it connected to God's blessings?

5. How can we apply the principle of obedience in our lives today?

6. How can the promise of a greater glory encourage believers facing disappointment or discouragement today?

7. In what ways does Haggai 2 reveal God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms and rulers?

8. What does God’s selection of Zerubbabel as His “signet ring” signify? How might this apply to us as believers today?

9. How does this chapter illustrate the theme of purification and its importance in our spiritual journey?

10. How does Haggai 2 relate to God’s unfailing promises and the concept of divine assurance?

11. How can we apply the lesson from God's message about defilement and holiness in our personal lives?

12. In the context of your own life, how does the promise of God's blessings resonate when you commit to a task He has called you to?

13. Discuss how the Israelites’ experience with the rebuilding of the temple parallels challenges in modern-day projects or missions.

14. How can you embody the characteristics of Zerubbabel in your leadership roles today?

15. What are some practical ways that we can ensure our 'offerings' to God are not 'defiled' in the modern world?

16. How does the message of Haggai 2 encourage us during times of societal unrest or change?

17. Reflect on a situation where you experienced disappointment similar to the Israelites. How did God work through that situation?

18. How does Haggai 2 shape our understanding of God’s ultimate plan for His people and His kingdom?

19. In what ways can we, as modern-day believers, contribute to the 'building' of God's spiritual 'temple'?

20. How can we continually find hope in God's promise of future glory amidst our current challenges?