Haggai 1:14

So the LORD stirred the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, as well as the spirit of all the remnant of the people. And they came and began the work on the house of the LORD of Hosts, their God,

Study Bible

So the LORD stirred up
The phrase "stirred up" comes from the Hebrew root "עוּר" (ur), which means to awaken or incite. In the context of Haggai, this divine stirring is an act of God awakening the spirit of His people to action. Historically, this reflects a period when the Israelites had returned from Babylonian exile and were tasked with rebuilding the temple. The LORD's stirring is a reminder of His sovereignty and active involvement in the affairs of His people, encouraging them to fulfill their divine purpose.

the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah
Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, plays a crucial role as the governor of Judah. His lineage is significant, as it ties back to the Davidic covenant, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises. The mention of his father, Shealtiel, roots Zerubbabel in a historical and genealogical context, underscoring the continuity of God's plan through generations. As governor, Zerubbabel's leadership is pivotal in the physical and spiritual restoration of the nation.

and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest
Joshua, the high priest, represents the spiritual leadership of the community. His father, Jehozadak, connects him to the priestly lineage, highlighting the importance of spiritual authority in guiding the people. The stirring of Joshua's spirit signifies a divine empowerment for spiritual renewal and the reestablishment of proper worship practices, which were central to the identity and faith of the Israelites.

and the spirit of all the remnant of the people
The "remnant" refers to those who returned from exile, a theme prevalent in prophetic literature. This remnant is often seen as a faithful group preserved by God to continue His covenantal promises. The collective stirring of their spirits indicates a communal awakening and a unified response to God's call. It reflects the importance of community in fulfilling God's purposes and the shared responsibility in the rebuilding efforts.

They came and began work on the house of the LORD of Hosts, their God
The phrase "house of the LORD of Hosts" emphasizes the temple's significance as the dwelling place of God among His people. "LORD of Hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) is a title that underscores God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. The people's response to begin work on the temple signifies obedience and reverence, acknowledging God's rightful place in their lives. This act of rebuilding is not just a physical task but a spiritual renewal, reestablishing the centrality of worship and God's presence in their community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zerubbabel
The governor of Judah, appointed by the Persian king, and a descendant of David. He plays a key role in the rebuilding of the temple.

2. Joshua
The high priest at the time, son of Jehozadak, who works alongside Zerubbabel in the temple reconstruction.

3. Remnant of the People
The group of Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile and are tasked with rebuilding the temple.

4. Haggai
A prophet sent by God to encourage the people to resume the work on the temple after a period of neglect.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the temple is located, central to Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

Divine Initiative
God is the one who initiates and empowers His work. Just as He stirred the spirit of Zerubbabel, Joshua, and the remnant, He stirs our hearts today to accomplish His purposes.

Obedience and Action
The response to God's stirring should be immediate obedience and action. The people in Haggai's time responded by beginning the work on the temple, setting an example for us to follow God's leading without delay.

Community and Leadership
Effective work for God often involves both strong leadership and a committed community. Zerubbabel and Joshua led by example, and the people followed, highlighting the importance of unity in fulfilling God's mission.

Spiritual Renewal
The rebuilding of the temple symbolizes spiritual renewal and prioritizing God's presence. In our lives, we must continually seek to renew our commitment to God and His purposes.

God's Faithfulness
God's faithfulness is evident as He fulfills His promises and provides the necessary resources and encouragement for His work. Trusting in His faithfulness gives us confidence to persevere in our tasks.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the stirring of the spirit in Haggai 1:14 reflect God's role in motivating His people today?

2. In what ways can we identify and respond to God's call to action in our own lives, similar to the remnant in Haggai's time?

3. How do the roles of Zerubbabel and Joshua illustrate the importance of leadership in spiritual and communal endeavors?

4. What parallels can we draw between the physical rebuilding of the temple and the spiritual building of the church today?

5. How can we rely on God's faithfulness and provision when facing challenges in fulfilling His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 5-6
These chapters provide historical context for the rebuilding of the temple, detailing the challenges faced and the eventual completion of the work.

Zechariah 4
Offers a prophetic vision that complements Haggai's message, emphasizing the role of Zerubbabel and the spiritual empowerment needed for the task.

Philippians 2:13
Relates to God's work in believers, paralleling how God stirred the hearts of the leaders and people in Haggai's time.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Connects the physical temple to the spiritual temple of the church, emphasizing the importance of building God's dwelling place.