HAGGAI
Author:
The prophet Haggai is referred to in Ezra 5:1-2; 6:14, but we know almost nothing about him. He was a contemporary of Zechariah.
Date:
About 520 BC, during the second year of the reign of King Darius.
Theme:
In his second year as king of Persia Cyrus permitted the Jews to return to Jerusalem (538 BC). Under the leadership of Zerubbabel they began the construction of the temple, but after completing the foundation they stopped the work. Haggai encouraged them to work and finish the temple, warning them of loss if they did not and promising God’s blessing if they did.
Contents:
The excuses the people gave for not finishing
the work, the loss their indifference brought 1:2-11
The people listen and show reverence for God 1:12
God’s promise, beginning the work again 1:13-15
God encourages the leaders 2:1-5
God will shake all nations,
but bring great glory to His temple 2:6-9
Sinful efforts produce uncleanness 2:10-14
The produce of the people had vanished 2:15-19
God’s judgment on the nations 2:20-22
A blessed promise to Zerubbabel 2:23