Haggai 2:6
For this is what the LORD of Hosts says: "Once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land.
For this is what the LORD of Hosts says
The phrase "LORD of Hosts" is a translation of the Hebrew "Yahweh Sabaoth," which emphasizes God's supreme command over the armies of heaven and earth. This title underscores His sovereignty and power, reminding the Israelites of His ability to fulfill His promises. Historically, this title reassures the people of God's presence and authority during times of rebuilding and uncertainty, as they were returning from exile and reconstructing the temple.

Once more
This phrase suggests a future action that echoes a past event. It implies a continuity of God's intervention in history. Theologically, it points to God's ongoing involvement in the world and His plan for redemption. The phrase can be seen as a promise of divine action that will surpass previous manifestations of God's power, such as the Exodus.

in a little while
This expression conveys a sense of imminence and urgency. It reassures the people that God's intervention is not far off, encouraging them to remain faithful and diligent in their work. Historically, it reflects the prophetic perspective that God's timing, though sometimes mysterious, is always perfect and purposeful.

I will shake the heavens and the earth
The imagery of shaking signifies a dramatic divine intervention that will alter the current order. In Hebrew, the word "shake" (ra'ash) can denote an earthquake or a significant upheaval. This phrase suggests a cosmic transformation, indicating that God's power extends beyond the earthly realm to the entire universe. It echoes the Sinai experience and foreshadows eschatological events described in later prophetic and New Testament writings.

the sea and the dry land
This phrase completes the picture of totality in God's sovereign action. By including both the sea and the dry land, the text emphasizes that no part of creation is beyond God's reach. Historically, this would remind the Israelites of God's control over natural elements, as seen in the parting of the Red Sea. Theologically, it reassures believers of God's comprehensive authority and His ability to bring about His purposes in all areas of life.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Haggai
A prophet who delivered messages from God to the Jewish people during the post-exilic period, encouraging them to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.

2. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, highlighting His power and authority.

3. Heavens and Earth
Symbolic of the entire created order, indicating a cosmic scale of divine intervention.

4. The Sea and the Dry Land
Represents the totality of the natural world, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's forthcoming action.

5. The Post-Exilic Community
The Jewish people who returned from Babylonian exile, tasked with rebuilding the temple and restoring worship in Jerusalem.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty and Power
The phrase "LORD of Hosts" reminds us of God's ultimate authority over all creation. We can trust in His power to fulfill His promises and bring about His purposes.

Divine Intervention in History
God's promise to "shake the heavens and the earth" indicates His active role in human history. We should remain vigilant and responsive to His movements in our lives and the world.

The Call to Faithfulness
As God prepares to shake the world, we are called to focus on what is eternal and unshakeable—our relationship with Him and His kingdom. This encourages us to prioritize spiritual growth and commitment.

Hope in God's Promises
The assurance of God's future action provides hope and motivation for perseverance. We can find comfort in knowing that God is working towards a future where His kingdom is fully realized.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding God as the "LORD of Hosts" influence your view of His role in your life and the world?

2. In what ways can you identify God's "shaking" in your personal life or in the world today? How should you respond to it?

3. How does the promise of an unshakeable kingdom in Hebrews 12:26-27 encourage you in your current circumstances?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to focus on what is eternal and unshakeable in your daily life?

5. How can the imagery of God shaking the heavens and the earth deepen your understanding of His power and your trust in His promises?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Hebrews 12:26-27
This New Testament passage references Haggai 2:6, explaining that God's shaking signifies the removal of what can be shaken, so that what cannot be shaken may remain, pointing to the establishment of an unshakeable kingdom.

Isaiah 13:13
Similar imagery of cosmic shaking is used to describe God's judgment and the transformation of the world order.

Joel 3:16
The Lord's voice shaking the heavens and earth is associated with divine judgment and deliverance for His people.
The Shaking of the Heavens and the EarthJohn Newton Haggai 2:6
Returning Despondency and Renewed StimulusT. Whitelaw Haggai 2:1-9
Christ ExpectedArchibald Boyd, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ Suited to All NationsA. Maclaren, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ the Desire and Glory of His ChurchC. Bradley, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ the Desire of All NationsHenry A. Boardman, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ the Desire of All NationsG. Huntington, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ the Desire of All NationsJ. F. Osborne.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ the Hope of the WorldEdwin Dukes.Haggai 2:6-7
Christ the World's DesireAlex. Marshall, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
Christmas-Day SermonGeo. Stradling, S. T. P.Haggai 2:6-7
Divine AgencyThe StudyHaggai 2:6-7
Divine ShakingsT. V. Moore, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
The Advent of the Lord Ushered in Amidst the Shaking of the NationsJ. G. Lorimer.Haggai 2:6-7
The Desire of All NationsT. Bowdler, A. M.Haggai 2:6-7
The Desire of All NationsJames Wolfendale.Haggai 2:6-7
The Desire of All NationsR. Fuller, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
The Desire of All NationsJohn N. Norton, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
The Desire of NationsW. H. Lewis, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
The Glory of God's HouseJoseph B. McCaul.Haggai 2:6-7
The Glory of the Presence of ChristJob Orton.Haggai 2:6-7
The Glory of the Second TempleArchibald Boyd, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
The Moral Progress of the WorldHomilistHaggai 2:6-7
The Nations ShakenArchibald Boyd, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
The Nations Shaken, and the Desire of All ComeA. Bonar.Haggai 2:6-7
The Presence of the Messias, the Glory of the Second TempJ. Tillotson, D. D.Haggai 2:6-7
The Presentation of Christ in the TempleEdmund Venables, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
The Shaking of the NationsJulius C. Hare, M. A.Haggai 2:6-7
The Moral Progress of the WorldD. Thomas Haggai 2:6-9
The Prophet's Messianic ProphecyT. Whitelaw Haggai 2:6-9
People
Darius, Haggai, Jehozadak, Josedech, Joshua, Shealtiel, Zerubbabel
Places
Egypt, Jerusalem
Topics
Armies, Dry, Heavens, Hosts, Says, Shake, Shaking, Short, Thus, Yet
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Haggai 2:6-8

     7470   temple, significance

Haggai 2:6-9

     1235   God, the LORD

Library
Brave Encouragements
'In the seventh month, in the one and twentieth day of the month, came the word of the Lord by the prophet Haggai, saying, 2. Speak now to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and to the residue of the people, saying, 3. Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing? 4. Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; and be strong, O Joshua,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Shaking of the Heavens and the Earth
Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Yet this once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land: and I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come, and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts. G od shook the earth when He proclaimed His law to Israel from Sinai. The description, though very simple, presents to our thoughts a scene unspeakably majestic, grand and awful. The mountain was in flames at the top, and
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

The Abiding of the Spirit the Glory of the Church
By the mouth of His servant Haggai stern rebukes were uttered, and the whole people were aroused. We read in verse twelve of the first chapter, "Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, with all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the Lord their God, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the Lord their God had sent him, and the people did fear before the Lord." All hands were put to the work; course after course of stone began to rise; and
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 32: 1886

The Desire of all Nations
"And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of Hosts."--Haggai 2:7. THE second temple was never intended to be as magnificent as the first. The first was to be the embodiment of the full glory of the dispensation of symbols and types, and was soon to pass away. This comparative feebleness had been proved by the idolatry and apostasy of the people Israel, and when they returned to Jerusalem they were to have a structure
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 61: 1915

The Overturning which is visible on Every Hand.
"I will overturn, overturn, overturn it, and it shall be no more, until He come whose right it is" (Ezek. 21:27). In close accord with this prophecy through Ezekiel is the word recorded in Haggai 2:6, 7--"For thus saith the Lord of hosts; Yet once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land. And I will shake all nations, and the Desire of all nations shall come." Note carefully the coupling of these two things together--the coming of the Desire
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
"The Holy Spirit was not yet given because that Jesus was not yet glorified."--John vii. 39. We have come to the most difficult part in the discussion of the work of the Holy Spirit, viz., the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the tenth day after the ascension. In the treatment of this subject it is not our aim to create a new interest in the celebration of Pentecost. We consider this almost impossible. Man's nature is too unspiritual for this. But we shall reverently endeavor to give a clearer insight
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

His Throat is Most Sweet, Yea, He is Altogether Lovely. This is My Beloved, and this is My Friend, O Daughters of Jerusalem.
The good qualities of ordinary things may be sufficiently well expressed by ordinary phrases of commendation, but there are some subjects so above expression that they can only be worthily admired by declaring them above all praise. Such is the Divine Bridegroom, who, by the excess of His perfections, renders His Bride dumb when she endeavors most worthily to praise Him, that all hearts and minds may be attracted to Him. Her passion causes her to burst out into the praise of some of the excellencies
Madame Guyon—Song of Songs of Solomon

"Wash You, Make You Clean; Put Away the Evil of Your Doings from Before Mine Eyes; Cease to do Evil,"
Isaiah i. 16.--"Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil," &c. There are two evils in sin,--one is the nature of it, another the fruit and sad effect of it. In itself it is filthiness, and contrary to God's holiness; an abasing of the immortal soul; a spot in the face of the Lord of the creatures, that hath far debased him under them all. Though it be so unnatural to us, yet it is now in our fallen estate become, as it were, natural, so that
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Christian Business World
Scripture references: Proverbs 22:29; Romans 12:11; Psalms 24:1; 50:10-12; Haggai 2:8; Psalm 49:6,10,16,17; 62:10; Matthew 13:22; Mark 10:23,24; Job 31:24-26; Proverbs 3:9; Matthew 25:14-30; 24:45-51; 6:19-21; Luke 12:16-21. THE IDEAL IN THE BUSINESS WORLD There is often a wide difference between the methods actually employed in doing business and when they should be. Good men who are in the thick of the battle of competition and rivalry with other firms in the same line of trade, are the quickest
Henry T. Sell—Studies in the Life of the Christian

Fifthly, as this Revelation, to the Judgment of Right and Sober Reason,
appears of itself highly credible and probable, and abundantly recommends itself in its native simplicity, merely by its own intrinsic goodness and excellency, to the practice of the most rational and considering men, who are desirous in all their actions to have satisfaction and comfort and good hope within themselves, from the conscience of what they do: So it is moreover positively and directly proved to be actually and immediately sent to us from God, by the many infallible signs and miracles
Samuel Clarke—A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God

The Cities of the Levites.
Concerning them, see Numbers, chapter 35, and Joshua chapter 21. "The suburbs of the cities of the Levites were three thousand cubits on every side; viz. from the walls of the city, and outwards; as it is said, 'From the walls of the city and outwards a thousand cubits: and thou shalt measure from without the city two thousand cubits' (Num 35:4,5). The former thousand were the suburbs, and the latter two thousand were for fields and vineyards. They appointed the place of burial to every one of those
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

"All Our Righteousnesses are as Filthy Rags, and we all do Fade as a Leaf, and Our Iniquities, Like the Wind, have Taken us Away. "
Isaiah lxiv. 6, 7.--"All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags, and we all do fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." Not only are the direct breaches of the command uncleanness, and men originally and actually unclean, but even our holy actions, our commanded duties. Take a man's civility, religion, and all his universal inherent righteousness,--all are filthy rags. And here the church confesseth nothing but what God accuseth her of, Isa. lxvi. 8, and chap. i. ver.
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive.
1. Men either idolatrous, profane, hypocritical, or regenerate. 1. Idolaters void of righteousness, full of unrighteousness, and hence in the sight of God altogether wretched and undone. 2. Still a great difference in the characters of men. This difference manifested. 1. In the gifts of God. 2. In the distinction between honorable and base. 3. In the blessings of he present life. 3. All human virtue, how praiseworthy soever it may appear, is corrupted. 1. By impurity of heart. 2. By the absence of
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

"For the Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus Hath Made Me Free from the Law of Sin and Death. "
Rom. viii. 2.--"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." You know there are two principal things in the preceding verse,--the privilege of a Christian, and the property or character of a Christian. He is one that never enters into condemnation; He that believeth shall not perish, John iii. 15. And then he is one that walks not after the flesh, though he be in the flesh, but in a more elevate way above men, after the guiding and leading
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Fourth Commandment
Remember the Sabbath-day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath-day and hallowed it. Exod 20: 8-11. This
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Mount Zion.
"For ye are not come unto a mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, and unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, and the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard entreated that no word more should be spoken unto them: for they could not endure that which was enjoined, If even a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned; and so fearful was the appearance, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake: but ye are come unto Mount Zion, and unto
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews

Questions.
LESSON I. 1. In what state was the Earth when first created? 2. To what trial was man subjected? 3. What punishment did the Fall bring on man? 4. How alone could his guilt be atoned for? A. By his punishment being borne by one who was innocent. 5. What was the first promise that there should be such an atonement?--Gen. iii. 15. 6. What were the sacrifices to foreshow? 7. Why was Abel's offering the more acceptable? 8. From which son of Adam was the Seed of the woman to spring? 9. How did Seth's
Charlotte Mary Yonge—The Chosen People

Haggai
The post-exilic age sharply distinguished itself from the pre-exilic (Zech. i. 4), and nowhere is the difference more obvious than in prophecy. Post-exilic prophecy has little of the literary or moral power of earlier prophecy, but it would be very easy to do less than justice to Haggai. His prophecy is very short; into two chapters is condensed a summary, probably not even in his own words, of no less than four addresses. Meagre as they may seem to us, they produced a great effect on those who heard
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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