First Message: The Call to Rebuild the Temple (1:1–11)
The People’s Lame Excuse (1:1–4)
- Haggai challenges the people, urging them to stop making excuses for neglecting the temple. They have focused on their own homes instead of God’s house.
The Poverty of the People (1:5–6)
- Haggai points out that despite the people’s hard work, they are experiencing poverty because they have not prioritized the rebuilding of the temple.
The Reason God Has Cursed Them (1:7–11)
- God reveals that their failure to rebuild the temple has led to a curse, which affects their crops and prosperity.
The Response of Zerubbabel and the People (1:12–15)
- The Leaders and Remnant Obey (1:12): Zerubbabel, Joshua, and the people obey Haggai’s message.
- The Lord Strengthens the Workers (1:13–15): God encourages the people by promising His presence and assistance in the rebuilding process.
Second Message: The Temple to Be Filled with Glory (2:1–9)
The People Encouraged (2:1–5)
- Haggai encourages those who were disappointed by the current state of the temple. Even though it seems small and insignificant, God promises that He will fill it with glory.
The Promise of Glory and Peace (2:6–9)
- God assures the people that the future glory of the temple will surpass its former glory, and peace will be established through His presence.
Third Message: A Defiled People Purified and Blessed (2:10–19)
The Rapid Spread of Sin (2:10–14)
- Haggai warns that sin is quickly spreading among the people and affecting their work. The defilement of sin prevents them from receiving God’s blessings.
Poor Harvests because of Disobedience (2:15–17)
- God points out that their disobedience has caused poor harvests, and they will not experience prosperity until they turn back to Him and complete the temple.
Blessing to Come as the Temple Is Rebuilt (2:18–19)
- A promise of blessings is given. When the temple is rebuilt and their hearts are right with God, He will bless their work and prosperity will follow.
Fourth Message: The Promise to Zerubbabel (2:20–23)
The Judgment of the Nations (2:20–22)
- God declares that He will shake the heavens and the earth, overthrowing the kingdoms of the nations. The nations will be judged, and God will establish His rule.
The Significance of Zerubbabel (2:23)
- Zerubbabel, as God’s chosen servant, is given a prominent role. God promises to make him like a signet ring, symbolizing His authority and favor.