"This is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Ask the priests for a ruling. This is what the LORD of Hosts says:The title "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, underscoring His authority and power. This title is frequently used in the prophetic books to remind the people of God's supreme control over all creation and His ability to fulfill His promises. It sets the tone for the divine message that follows, indicating that the instruction is not merely human wisdom but a directive from the Almighty. Ask the priests for a ruling: Persons / Places / Events 1. HaggaiA prophet who delivered messages from God to the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian exile. His primary focus was on encouraging the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. 2. The LORD of Hosts A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies. It underscores His authority and power in delivering His messages through the prophet Haggai. 3. The Priests Religious leaders in Israel responsible for teaching the Law and making judgments on religious matters. They played a crucial role in guiding the people in spiritual and ceremonial practices. 4. Jerusalem The city where the Temple was located, central to Jewish worship and identity. The rebuilding of the Temple was a significant event in the post-exilic period. 5. The Exile and Return The historical context of Haggai's prophecy, where the Jewish people had returned from Babylonian captivity and were tasked with rebuilding their community and religious life. Teaching Points The Importance of Seeking Godly WisdomJust as the people were instructed to seek a ruling from the priests, we are encouraged to seek wisdom from godly leaders and Scripture in our own lives. The Role of Spiritual Leaders Spiritual leaders are called to guide and instruct the community in accordance with God's Word. Their role is vital in helping believers discern God's will. Obedience to God's Commands The request for a ruling from the priests emphasizes the need for obedience to God's commands. We are reminded to align our actions with God's standards. Community and Accountability The communal aspect of seeking a ruling highlights the importance of accountability within the faith community. We are encouraged to support and hold each other accountable in our spiritual journeys. Rebuilding and Renewal The context of rebuilding the Temple serves as a metaphor for spiritual renewal. We are called to rebuild and renew our commitment to God, especially after periods of spiritual neglect or exile. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the role of the priests in Haggai 2:11 inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?2. In what ways can we seek godly wisdom and guidance in our daily decisions, similar to the Israelites seeking a ruling from the priests? 3. How does the concept of rebuilding the Temple in Haggai relate to personal spiritual renewal in our lives? 4. What are some practical ways we can hold each other accountable within our faith communities, as seen in the communal aspect of seeking a ruling? 5. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in our modern context, and what challenges might we face in doing so? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 10:10-11This passage highlights the role of priests in distinguishing between the holy and the common, and in teaching the Israelites all the decrees given by the LORD. It connects to Haggai 2:11 as the priests are asked for a ruling, emphasizing their role in interpreting the Law. Ezra 5:1-2 This passage describes the prophetic ministry of Haggai and Zechariah in encouraging the rebuilding of the Temple. It provides context for Haggai's message and the importance of the Temple in post-exilic Israel. Malachi 2:7 This verse underscores the role of priests as messengers of the LORD, responsible for preserving knowledge and teaching the people. It relates to Haggai 2:11 by highlighting the priests' duty to provide guidance and rulings.
People Darius, Haggai, Jehozadak, Josedech, Joshua, Shealtiel, ZerubbabelPlaces Egypt, JerusalemTopics Armies, Decide, Hosts, Instruction, Law, Point, Priests, Question, Ruling, Saying, Says, ThusDictionary of Bible Themes Haggai 2:11Library Brave Encouragements'In the seventh month, in the one and twentieth day of the month, came the word of the Lord by the prophet Haggai, saying, 2. Speak now to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and to the residue of the people, saying, 3. Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing? 4. Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; and be strong, O Joshua, … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Shaking of the Heavens and the Earth The Abiding of the Spirit the Glory of the Church The Desire of all Nations The Overturning which is visible on Every Hand. The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit. His Throat is Most Sweet, Yea, He is Altogether Lovely. This is My Beloved, and this is My Friend, O Daughters of Jerusalem. "Wash You, Make You Clean; Put Away the Evil of Your Doings from Before Mine Eyes; Cease to do Evil," The Christian Business World Fifthly, as this Revelation, to the Judgment of Right and Sober Reason, The Cities of the Levites. "All Our Righteousnesses are as Filthy Rags, and we all do Fade as a Leaf, and Our Iniquities, Like the Wind, have Taken us Away. " The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive. "For the Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus Hath Made Me Free from the Law of Sin and Death. " The Fourth Commandment Mount Zion. Questions. Haggai Links Haggai 2:11 NIVHaggai 2:11 NLT Haggai 2:11 ESV Haggai 2:11 NASB Haggai 2:11 KJV Haggai 2:11 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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