On Sunday we took a break from our Sent series in order to briefly look at the book of Haggai. Today we’ll look at the fifth and final prophecy that Haggai gives to the people.
I am going to shake the heavens and earth
“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 going to shake the heavens and the earth. I will overturn royal thrones and shatter the power of the foreign kingdoms. I will overthrow chariots and their drivers; horses and their riders will fall, each by the sword of his brother. (Haggai 2:20-22)
God promises that He is going shake all of creation and destroy human kingdoms; the Persian kingdom will fall, the Romans will fall, the British Empire will fall…all are fragile and subject to God’s will. However, this is, ultimately, pointing to the advance of the Kingdom of God in the world and the ultimate overthrow of sin when Jesus comes again.
My signet ring - my ruler
“‘On that day,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘I will take you, my servant Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will make you like my signet ring, for I have chosen you,’ declares the Lord Almighty.” (Haggai 2:20-23)
This is an encouragement to Zerubbabel whose rule was far from glorious: he was not a true king; he was simply a governor of a Persian province. However, God reassures him that he is ‘chosen’ and is appointed by God. Likewise, no matter how you feel about the mediocrity of your life right now, God wants to encourage you. He is working in and through us.
However, this prophecy speaks far beyond Zerubbabel. It is speaking of Jesus. He is the true ‘signet ring’ who carries God’s absolute authority.
RESPONSE
God’s prophecy through Haggai encourages us that He has great plans for His people - His church. We may feel insignificant, but our God rules over the nation. We may feel weak but our Lord is the ‘signet ring’ - He rules as God Almighty. Let’s trust and let’s pray in light of who God is and what He has spoken.
COMMUNITY GROUP STUDY - IT'S TIME TO BUILD
Notices
It might be good to begin with notices. Please share from this week’s Church News.
Suggested opener/Ice-breaker
Have you got any funny DIY stories to share?
Recap of Sunday's message - please share in your group
Please read Haggai 1:1-15
God’s people had been taken into exile in Babylon because they had refused to listen to God about their sin. However, God had promised that after 70 years they would return to the Land. Having returned, they quickly become fearful and discouraged and the rebuilding of the house of God ceases for 15 years. God stirs them to start building through the prophets Haggai and Zechariah.
This is what the Lord Almighty says: “These people say, ‘The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord’s house.’” (Haggai 1:2)
This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways. Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build my house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honoured,” says the Lord .“ (Haggai 1:7-8)
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