The concept of the "Coming Glory of the New Temple" is rooted in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Haggai. This theme is significant in understanding the eschatological expectations of Israel and the fulfillment of God's promises concerning His dwelling place among His people.

Biblical Context

The prophecy concerning the coming glory of the new temple is primarily found in Haggai 2:1-9. The historical backdrop of this prophecy is the post-exilic period, around 520 B.C., when the Jewish exiles had returned from Babylonian captivity under the decree of Cyrus the Great. The initial enthusiasm for rebuilding the temple, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 B.C., had waned due to opposition and discouragement. Haggai, along with the prophet Zechariah, was instrumental in motivating the people to resume construction.

Haggai's Prophecy

In Haggai 2:3-9, the prophet addresses the disheartened builders who remembered the splendor of Solomon's temple and were disappointed with the modest beginnings of the new structure. Haggai 2:3 states, "Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Does it not seem to you like nothing in comparison?" Despite their discouragement, God, through Haggai, promises that the glory of the new temple will surpass that of the former. Haggai 2:9 declares, "The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former, says the LORD of Hosts. And in this place I will provide peace, declares the LORD of Hosts."

Theological Significance

The promise of greater glory is not merely about physical splendor but points to a deeper, spiritual fulfillment. The "glory" in the Hebrew Scriptures often signifies the manifest presence of God. The new temple's glory is thus associated with God's presence and His covenantal faithfulness. This prophecy is seen as a reassurance of God's continued presence with His people and His commitment to His promises.

Messianic Fulfillment

From a Christian perspective, the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy is found in Jesus Christ. The New Testament presents Jesus as the true temple, the embodiment of God's presence among humanity. In John 2:19-21, Jesus refers to His body as the temple, indicating that through His death and resurrection, He would inaugurate a new era of divine presence. The glory of God, once confined to a physical building, is now fully revealed in Christ.

Eschatological Hope

The prophecy also carries an eschatological dimension, pointing to the future hope of a new creation where God's presence will dwell fully with His people. Revelation 21:22 states, "But I saw no temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple." This vision of the New Jerusalem reflects the ultimate fulfillment of Haggai's prophecy, where the glory of God fills the entire creation, and peace is fully realized.

Conclusion

The Coming Glory of the New Temple is a profound theme that encapsulates God's promise of restoration, His presence among His people, and the ultimate hope of a renewed creation. Through the lens of biblical prophecy and fulfillment in Christ, this theme continues to inspire and encourage believers in their faith journey.