I. The Speaker- the covenant-keeping LORD, the LORD of hosts
II. The Addressees- Zerubbabel the governor, Joshua the high priest, and the remnant of Israel
III. The Good News
a. Questions- recall the temple’s former glory
b. Commands- be strong; work; do not fear
c. Promises- I am with you; my Spirit remains among you according to the covenant; I will shake heaven and earth; I will fill this temple with glory; glory shall be better than first; I will give peace
Main Point
In this passage, the author brings a message of hope to a remnant people of God living in the land which was once the promised glory of their inheritance but currently still shows evidence of it having been laid waste. God desires that His people work to rebuild the temple. The author richly displays the surety of God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises made to His people while they take up the task set before them. Moreover, the author demonstrates that it is not God’s desire to restore Israel to her former glory, but to bring them to a point of greater glory than they could ever imagine.
Pastoral Intent
To bring fresh hope and a renewed sense of belonging to a despairing and disenfranchised people because Jehovah God will remain with them and work in them a greater restoration than they previously understood.
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