From Ashes to Glory - Haggai 2

From Ashes to Glory
Haggai 2

Context: With the Babylonian exile now history and a newly returned group of Jews back in the land, the work of rebuilding the temple can begin. But sixteen years after the process is begun, the people have yet to finish the project, for their personal affairs have interfered with God’s business. Haggai preaches a fiery series of sermonettes designed to stir up the nation to finish the temple. He calls the builders to renewed courage in the Lord, renewed holiness in life, and renewed faith in God who controls the future. (Talk thru the Bible, Kenneth Boa)

Main Idea: God’s unfolding plan will take individuals, nations, and the world from ashes to glory.

To go from ashes to glory…

Trust completely in God (vs. 1-9)
God tells the Israelites to “fear not,” (vs. 5) and says “I am with you,” (vs. 4) asking them to place their complete faith in Him.
You must place your faith completely in Christ for Him to work on rebuilding your life.

Turn away from all sin (vs. 10-19)
The people had been defiled through their sins, and God could not bless them. Since they chose to repent, God promises to bless. (vs. 19)
Repentance will always lead to the blessed presence of God.

Take your part in God’s unfolding plan (vs. 20-23)
Zerubbabel was God’s chosen instrument to rebuild the temple. He played a great role in the history of God’s redemptive plan.
If you are a Christian, you have been chosen by God to play a role in God’s redemptive plan.