Haggai 1-2

Background: Solomon's great temple has been destroyed. A decree was given that would allow the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. However, disobedience and inactivity by the Jews led to the halt of all construction.

A Call to Build the House of the Lord

1. God notes that His people live in splendor while His house remains a ruin.

-Do we sometimes choose to retain the best for ourselves and hold back from giving to God? (For example, in your tithing...)

-What does this say about our view of God and His Blessings?

2. Review vs 5-7

-God tells the people that their work will not yield great results, because He is not blessing them anymore. Why would God choose to not bless His chosen people?

The first chapter closes with a response by the remnant in Jerusalem. Hearing the message, they began to work on the house of God.

Chapter 2

The Promised Glory of the New House

God begins this chapter encouraging His children.

1. God reminds His people of the covenant that He made with them when they left Egypt.

-Why does God continue to be faithful to His promises when His children often are not?

-What does this say about the character of God?

2. Review vs 6- 10

-Why would the future judgement of the nations encourage the remnant in Jerusalem?

-Does it encourage you?

Blessings for a Defiled People

When the temple was originally made, God let the people of Jerusalem know that with obedience there would be blessings and with disobedience- there would be curses. He presents this warning again.

1. What is the message that we should take from this book?

2. Are you aware of the consequences of your sin and disobey God anyway? 

3. What should God's response be to your disobedience?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Haggai 1-2