Haggai

Haggai prophesied during the second year of the reign of King Darius in about 520 B.C.

Haggai 1:1-11

Israel had just returned to their land following their 70 years of exile in Babylonian captivity. They realized that their disobedience was resulting in discipline from God. Haggai challenges Israel to reconsider her actions that have resulted in a conflict of interest with God, and he commands them to rebuild their destroyed temple. If they would do so, God would be pleased and glorified.

Haggai 1:12-15

In response to Haggai's challenges, the people obey and indeed do begin the reconstruction of the temple. As a result, their efforts receive confirmation from God.

Haggai 2:1-9

The people are discouraged as they realize that the second temple is quite inferior to the first one. However, in contrast, God is quite pleased with their obedience.

Haggai 2:10-19

Haggai explained that even after returning to their land and rebuilding the temple, the people were not being true to God in their hearts. As a result, God judged them because their hearts remained unchanged. However, now in their obedience, God would bless them by His grace.

Haggai 2:20-23

Haggai prophesied that, in the end times, the Gentile nations would lose their power, and wars would come to an end. God's purpose would be realized in The Day of the Lord, through the bloodline of David. Jesus Christ would ultimately rule the earth upon the throne of David.