Haggai 2:20

“And again the word of the LORD came unto Haggai in the four and twentieth day of the month, saying,”

Historical Background:Haggai was a prophet who lived during the time of the Jewish exiles’ return from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem. The people had initially shown enthusiasm in rebuilding the temple, but they became discouraged and neglected the work. Haggai’s prophecies were meant to encourage the people to prioritise the rebuilding of the temple.

Context of Haggai 2:20:

In the preceding verses, Haggai delivers a message from the Lord to Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, and Joshua, the high priest. God promised to shake the heavens and the earth, overthrowing the kingdoms of the nations and their military might. In verse 20, Haggai receives another word from the Lord.

God’s Word to Haggai:Though the verse itself doesn’t contain the content of God’s word to Haggai, the subsequent verses (Haggai 2:21-23) elaborate on the message. God instructs Haggai to speak to Zerubbabel, the governor, conveying a powerful promise and assurance.

The Message to Zerubbabel:Haggai 2:21-23 (KJV) says: “21 Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I will shake the heavens and the earth; And I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms, and I will destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the heathen; and I will overthrow the chariots, and those that ride in them; and the horses and their riders shall come down, everyone by the sword of his brother.: 23 In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith the LORD, and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the LORD of hosts.”

The Significance of the Message:a) Encouragement to Zerubbabel: God’s message reassured Zerubbabel, who was tasked with the responsibility of governing the people and overseeing the temple’s rebuilding. It was a promise of God’s intervention, His authority over the nations, and His assurance of victory.

b) Divine Authority: God declares His sovereignty over all kingdoms, indicating that He has the power to overthrow and establish rulers. This serves as a reminder that earthly powers are subject to God’s ultimate authority.

c) Zerubbabel as a Signet: God promises to make Zerubbabel like a signet ring, symbolising honour, authority, and favour. This implies that Zerubbabel would be chosen and used by God for a specific purpose, possibly alluding to his lineage as part of the Davidic line and the Messianic promise.

• Trust in God’s Promises:Just as God assured Zerubbabel of His presence and sovereignty, we can trust that God is with us in our endeavours and challenges. His promises are true and reliable.
• God’s Authority:This passage reminds us that God holds ultimate authority over all earthly powers. No matter the challenges we face, we can find hope and strength in knowing that God is in control.
• God’s Chosen Instruments:Like Zerubbabel, God chooses individuals for specific purposes in His plan. We should seek to discover and fulfil our God-given roles, trusting that He will equip and empower us to accomplish His purposes.

Remember to study the Bible in its entirety and seek a deeper understanding of God’s Word.