The Fourth Message delivered through the prophet Haggai is a significant moment in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, emphasizing God's sovereign choice and the restoration of His people. This message is found in Haggai 2:20-23 and is directed specifically to Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, who plays a pivotal role in the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

Context and Background

The Book of Haggai is set in the year 520 B.C., during the reign of Darius the Great of Persia. The Israelites, having returned from Babylonian captivity, faced the daunting task of rebuilding the temple, which had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. Haggai, along with the prophet Zechariah, was instrumental in encouraging the people to complete this task. The Fourth Message is delivered on the same day as the Third Message, the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, a time when the foundation of the Lord's temple was being laid.

The Message

Haggai 2:20-23 states:

"Then the word of the LORD came to Haggai a second time on the twenty-fourth day of the month: 'Tell Zerubbabel governor of Judah that I am about to shake the heavens and the earth. I will overturn royal thrones and shatter the power of foreign kingdoms. I will overthrow chariots and their drivers; horses and their riders will fall, each by the sword of his brother. On that day, declares the LORD of Hosts, I will take you, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, My servant, declares the LORD, and I will make you like My signet ring, for I have chosen you,' declares the LORD of Hosts."

Significance of the Message

1. Divine Sovereignty and Judgment: The message begins with a declaration of God's impending action to "shake the heavens and the earth." This imagery signifies a divine intervention that will disrupt the established order, overthrowing kingdoms and powers. It reflects God's control over the nations and His ability to execute judgment according to His will.

2. Zerubbabel as a Signet: The choice of Zerubbabel as God's "signet ring" is a profound symbol of authority and favor. In ancient times, a signet ring was used to seal documents, representing the owner's identity and authority. By choosing Zerubbabel, God reaffirms the Davidic line, from which Zerubbabel descends, and signals the continuation of His covenant promises to David. This choice underscores Zerubbabel's role as a leader and a representative of God's people.

3. Messianic Foreshadowing: The promise to Zerubbabel is often seen as a foreshadowing of the coming Messiah, who would ultimately fulfill the Davidic covenant. Zerubbabel's inclusion in the genealogies of Jesus Christ, as recorded in Matthew 1:12-13 and Luke 3:27, highlights his significance in the messianic lineage.

4. Encouragement and Hope: For the post-exilic community, this message served as a source of encouragement and hope. It assured them that despite their current struggles and the apparent insignificance of their efforts, God was actively working to fulfill His purposes. Zerubbabel's leadership was a tangible sign of God's presence and commitment to His people.

Theological Implications

The Fourth Message to Zerubbabel emphasizes God's faithfulness to His promises and His sovereign control over history. It reassures believers of God's ability to bring about His redemptive plan, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The choice of Zerubbabel as a signet ring serves as a reminder of God's intimate involvement in the affairs of His people and His ultimate plan of salvation through Jesus Christ.