The Glory of the Latter House
Scripture: Haggai 1:12-2:9
God encourages the discouraged- perseverance The architectural structure of Zerubabbel’s temple was less glamorous than Solomon’s temple. So why would its glory outshine Solomon’s temple? 1.The LORD energized and encouraged the rebuilding of the temple. Haggai 1:14 14So the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of the whole remnant of the people. They came and began to work on the house of the LORD Almighty, their God,” TEV rendered it “inspired” NLT rendered “sparked the enthusiasm of” CEV rendered “made everyone eager to work” Remarks 1.The need to stir up the heart of the people may be because the people had become indolent and needed a reinvigoration. Although the Governor and the High Priest expressed willingness to obey but labored under apathetic environment. God has called believers to serve Him, grow and become productive. 2.The people were discouraged and needed encouragement. They were discouraged because of 1.Lack of progress on the temple project 2.Fear of the enemies within and without 3.The pile of ruins and the enormity of the task 4. Comparison with the earlier temple project of Solomon. Ezra 3:1-6 In Ezra 3:8-13as the Lord’s temple was rebuilt there were praises and loud weeping mingled in discordant sounds. The older generation who witnessed the glory of Solomon’s temple wept while the new generation marveled at the glory of the later temple. 5.Skepticism of the older generation Every human effort and initiative will fall short and deficient without God’s sufficiency. Paul tells us “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. (Philippians 2:13 NLT). Are you presently struggling with discouragement as a result of outward circumstances that is incongruent with your internal expectations? Have you grown weary and have lost confidence in yourself, confidence in God and confidence in a better future? God is telling you 1.He is with you. 2.Do not fear 3.You can trust on His faithfulness to His covenant relationship. 4.The nations will bring their treasures because to God belongs the silver and the gold. 5.God promises to give you peace
