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Haggai: First Things First

Haggai challenges us to consider what we value most. As Taylor says, “Preoccupation with such concerns (as food, clothing, shelter, etc.) can lead to a type of personal decision making that focuses first on meeting temporal human needs and offers God only what is left over after essential matters of personal security and comfort have first been decided.” This is the condition Haggai finds the Israelites in, and the irony of it is their neglect of the LORD is exactly what has led to their lack of security, clothing, shelter, etc. (1:9-11). Since we are a people created to depend on the LORD and a people in covenant with him, we cannot expect true prosperity while neglecting him. Communion with God is the principal blessing of life. There is nothing better. Prioritize other things over it, and they’ll kill you. God is worthy of worship; his very purpose in having them build the temple is that he may be glorified (1:8). Where this is neglected, judgment follows.

The final word from God to the people is one of encouragement. God will bless obedient builders now and forever.

Resources:

Haggai 2:10-23
Minor Prophets by Alec Motyer
The NIV Application Commentary by Mark Boda

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Haggai – First Things First – The Lord Empowers the Building

Resources:

Haggai 1:12-15

 

 

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In Haggai’s first prophecy he tells God’s people that now is the time to build God’s house because they aren’t too busy, they aren’t yet satisfied and because God is worthy. Haggai points us forward to Jesus Christ, whose body was broken so that he could build God’s house for God’s glory.

Resources:

Haggai 1:1-11
The Minor Prophets by Alec Motyer
NIV Life Application Commentary by Mark Bode

A special thanks to Mark Giaccobe for his help in discerning how New Covenant believers are called to build the temple.

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