Haggai 2:20-23 The End

The word of the Lord came a second time to Haggai on the twenty-fourth day of the month, “Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I am about to shake the heavens and the earth, and to overthrow the throne of kingdoms. I am about to destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the nations, and overthrow the chariots and their riders. And the horses and their riders shall go down, every one by the sword of his brother. On that day, declares the Lord of hosts, I will take you, O Zerubbabel my servant, the son of Shealtiel, declares the Lord, and make you like a signet ring, for I have chosen you, declares the Lord of hosts.” Haggai 2:20-23, ESV.
 
In Haggai 2:6-9, God speaks of a unique day. He addresses it again in today’s passage. On that day, God will shake the earth and the nations and see kingdoms brought down in violent warfare. The prophetic picture is of the day when the enemies of God’s people, who are also His enemies, will face judgment. Also on that day, God will bring great glory and peace to the temple and make Zerubbabel like a signet ring. God’s people will be abundantly blessed as He establishes His presence with them and sets His King on the throne of peace and righteousness.
 
God is confirming the devotion of His people as they return to the work of restoring the temple. The work they are doing in the place where He will dwell with them is labor in the right direction. Just as the temple itself is symbolic (God is not bound by temple walls), their work is symbolic of the change that has been wrought in their hearts. It will not be their work that actually brings about God’s kingdom and peace, but by giving themselves to Him they are testifying to their faith that He will bring it about. On the last day, God will bless them for it.
 
We cannot do anything to bring about the day of consummation when God will establish His Messianic King, Jesus, on the throne of His eternal Kingdom. In fact, what we deserve is a place with the enemies of God in death and defeat. Our good works do not change that. What we can do is have faith in our God to save us, a rescue mission He has accomplished in His Son. We can serve Him in ways that show we trust Him. Then one day there will be a shaking, a King’s coronation, and the blessing of God on His people, and we too will be among them.
 
I am praying that we will all walk by faith in the promises of God until that day! 
 
Pastor Don