More Grace

Exodus 33:12-23 

 Might think, given the circumstances, Moses had come out of tense situation in pretty good shape. People paid dear price for their sin, yet could have been much worse. All but 29,000 survived, Moses and Joshua included. God promised to make sure they found the way to Canaan, would be able to actually take possession of it. God still on speaking terms with Moses, more than that… treated Moses as his friend. Would seem to be good time to quietly accept whatever God volunteered for a deal, smile and not and say thank you.

Moses not content to do that. Instead, kept pushing the boundaries… in a good way, one that got favorable response from God. Not what Moses asked for but still was blessed beyond words. Don’t know how much time passed between God’s command immediately following the plague and this conversation with God. Not a long delay, could have been later same day. Not told where took place, likely at the tent of meeting outside the camp. Moses acting in his role as mediator, bringing needs of people before God, tossed in a couple things for himself too.

A. if I have found grace  v.12-14

you say I have

begins in his “conversation” prayer with God by repeating what God had said… back to him, explaining his interpretation

you said this, I understand it to mean this, if that is true then… this is what I would expect to see / hear / experience, but…

Moses wrote God spoke with him “face to face, as a man speaks to his friend” yet believes God’s relationship with him goes far beyond friendship – includes measure of obligation on God’s’ part

God has given orders but not sufficient instruction, has indicated close and favorable relationship but not shown it… to Moses satisfaction – “know my name” = intimacy, “found grace” = good kind of intimacy

show me if I really have

Moses struggling to reconcile knowledge with experience – what he knew and believed to be true about God, how his current experience did / did not match up

if God is unchanging and cannot lie, has said that he had close and favorable relationship with Moses, why is he backing off

one likely explanation in Moses’ mind – somehow he had lost favor with God – God not abandoning him but… keeping distance

so… asks for clear reassurance, evidence that things still good between him and God – and btw, this people is your people

notice Moses big goal: “that I may know You and that I may find grace in Your sight” – continued and closer intimacy with God

had already found grace with God, wants to continue to find favor – iow, Moses wants more grace from God, more demonstrations of favor he does not deserve

here are two promises

once again God relents from his threatened consequence – ok, not just an angel that God would send, his very presence would continue to be with them

first declaration of incredible promise… repeated by Lord Jesus himself: “I will give you rest” – that generation would later forfeit it

yet promise endures – there is a rest that still remains for the people of God (Heb. 4:3, 9)… Moses has entered it, we will someday

not only would God himself go with them, promised rest meant they would certainly reach their destination, would be Free to Worship God as he directed them

B. you have found grace  v.15-17

that’s a given

kinda like Moses had rehearsed his speech, didn’t really register God had answered him before he finished – just keeps going while God smiles at him

strongly implied: if God would not go with them, Moses wasn’t moving – if they were to make it to Canaan, God would have to be present with them all the way

for Moses, nothing else mattered if God’s presence not with them – God present there at Sinai, would not leave his presence without some ironclad guarantees

by relenting in way God did, showed Moses that he had indeed found grace… for himself – but what about stiff-necked people

there must be more

Moses not content either for himself or for people he represented to be treated by God same as everyone else in the world

to Moses, God’s presence the distinguishing characteristic – that alone what set those people apart from all the rest

sure, was clear evidence of God’s special favor but… even that by itself not enough – Moses wanted something more concrete

Moses wanted self and people clearly identified as God’s people – wanted all the other “people who are upon the face of the earth” to know they were different

two questions to ask: Both individually and as church family, what evidence are we looking for that God is pleased with us?

Do we individually and as church family want to be distinguished from the world, and if so, how?

we still have a relationship

God responded graciously, gently, compassionately to Moses – yes, still on good terms; you are an effective mediator and friend of God in close relationship with him

because God is gracious, he would grant Moses’ request… both for himself and on behalf of entire people group

Moses an Old Testament type of Christ, mediator of old covenant as Christ is mediator of new covenant – yet Moses was mediator with limitations

could not plead any merit of his own when seeking favor from God – depended on God’s grace and mercy for results

could approach God only so closely, could only experience limited portion of God… and was not satisfied

Moses’ desire: to know he had found favor with God, that he was in covenant relationship with God, that God would be his friend, that God would continue to be gracious to him… and his people

C. I will be gracious  v.18-23

I want more of you

as if Moses thought: “I’ve come this far, I’m not turning back now, I’m going for the gold” – had 40 days face to face with God on the mountain, wanted more

could not care less for anything world offered, “esteemed the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt”

suffering for sake of God and his Gospel an incomparably greater treasure than all wealth of this world – if that is so, if reproach for Christ is great treasure, favor from God must be even more so

Moses wanted more of God’s favor but what he wanted most was more of God – greater intimacy, greater knowledge, closer friendship, more fellowship

yes, comes sort of with more time spent; more to it than that, requires that God display more of his Being in way we can see

I’ll give you more

on my terms – God did not rebuke or ridicule Moses, continued to respond graciously to Moses’ request, but on God’s terms

just like any other request – God answers in his way and time, always consistent with who He is, his character and nature

he would give Moses more of himself, but not exactly as Moses requested – would display and declare his goodness for Moses benefit… and countless generations since

good to remember: God is by nature gracious and compassionate but… his grace and compassion not automatically dispensed on everyone – is God who decides

for your good – God not being stingy, not negotiating with Moses, is truly being gracious and compassionate – to grant Moses’ request would harm him, would not be a good gift

even when we ask for what seems to be good thing, God always gives what is for our good… to limit of our capability

you must be sheltered by the Rock

God promised to give Moses as much of himself as he could, at same time protecting him – could be within arm’s reach of God… so long as he was sheltered

we, too, can come within arm’s reach of God so long as is the Rock, Jesus himself, who spans the gap between us

is also in and through Lord Jesus that we can… for now… experience God’s goodness, see God’s glory

When Moses confronted with depth of fellow Israelites’ depravity, what was his desired solution? To experience more of God, more of his grace, his glory. When Moses wanted evidence of God’s favor, identification as God’s people, was God’s presence with them that he craved. May we do likewise: seek to experience more of God and his presence with us.

33. How can you escape the condemnation of hell?

Matthew 23:33 Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?

Read: Matthew 23:29-36

 

Setting:

in the Temple area; probably Tuesday of Passion Week; scribes, Pharisees, crowds and the Twelve present

following verse (Matt. 24:1) “Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple”

cultural context: making a big deal out of honoring prophets and other righteous as heroes – keeping painted, grass mowed, fresh flowers, solar lights, ostentatious in their appearance of hero-worship

claiming they would never have treated their heroes disrespectfully as ancestors did – giving lip service to several right things: prophets genuineness, great value of their message, honorable character; shamefulness of how previous generation rejected them and their message

at same time: consider how these same individuals acted in general, had treated last of OT prophets, John the Baptist… and how they would treat even greater prophet, Jesus, in 48 hours

v.32 spoken with mix of emotions, at least firmness and sorrow (given v.37ff) – “go ahead, finish what your ancestors started; you are all bent on destruction, will not be persuaded to change course”

prefaces question with identification of their true character and family connections: Satan is liar and murderer (John 8:44), by their words and actions they follow in his pattern (liars, v.30; murderers, v.34)

Person(s) being questioned:

scribes (29), Pharisees – described as hypocrites, sons of those who murdered the prophets (31), serpents (33), brood of vipers

by implication / extension, everyone w/i hearing who shared their devotion to doctrinal precisionism, theological / political status quo

and… wake-up call to genuine seekers taken in by their deceptions

Question behind the question:

You rejected God’s plan A. What is your plan B?

What is the basis for your hope… and will it be sufficient?

more immediately, What hope is there you will repent?

Jesus’ commentary on any response they might give: you have no genuine hope – this generation will pay the penalty for all this sin… in 70AD

Expected response:

Jesus really didn’t expect one – other listeners might have thought of something either they or leaders could have said

“we’re children of Abraham” (see John 8:33, 39), iow, God’s chosen people – “we keep the law” (see Matt. 5:20) – “we’re not hopelessly unclean like Gentiles or Samaritans” (see John 4:9)

Jesus’ point:

were in long line (as they hinted, but not incl. Abraham!) of those who rejected God’s messengers… and their message – package deal, cannot separate one from the other – parable of vineyard, Mark 12:1-12 

even when confronted with what they knew to be truth, refused to be persuaded of it – repetitions of God’s truth hardened resistance

had totally rejected the only means God had supplied for reconciliation, in just few days would do their part to destroy God’s final “attempt”… his Son

since God only has one plan of redemption, when that is off the table what is left? God set his own terms, how can you hope to make your own?

NOTE: calling them serpents / vipers should have put Jewish people on high alert – only a fool “plays” with deadly venomous snakes

Modern Application:

those who practice doctrinal isolationism – Bible version, end-times sequence, evangelistic methods – trending strongly toward mindset of scribes and Pharisees

the intolerance of tolerance – as “understood” in our culture, tolerance for anything / everything apart from Biblical Christianity

those who have own version of faith while rejecting God’s message / messengers (incl. Bible)

what hope do they rest in for what comes after death… what authority do they base that hope on

A Call to Confidence for the Future

Haggai 2:20-23 

 Once again God spoke to and through Haggai on same day: December 18, 520, anniversary of day when foundation for Second Temple (also called Zerubbabel’s Temple) laid. Each of these words from God came with identification of recipient – person or group God intended to hear his word. First: Zerubbabel, Joshua (1:1); second: Zerubbabel, Joshua, remnant of the people (2:2); third: the priests (2:11); fourth: Zerubbabel (2:20).

Don’t hear too much about Zerubbabel, was more than simple bit player with 15 minutes of fame on world stage. Had been appointed by Cyrus, was governor of Judah and co-leader with Joshua the high priest… shared political and religious leadership. Was one whom God thought it important to address specifically with prophetic word (3 of 4 sermons), the man with sufficient rank and title to be in charge of Temple reconstruction. Apparently had sufficient leadership ability to be a good choice, yet… had become discouraged and lost focus. Apparently needed more than one dose of courage, being stirred up again to decisive action, something God graciously supplied through both Haggai and Zechariah.

Zerubbabel not just any leader, either. Was in a really hard spot – grandson of last king of Judah, direct descendant of David, in reality a royal prince. Circumstances required something else of him, and, God had something of profound significance in view. Zerubbabel would have descendant of far greater importance than even his ancestor David. Yes, was in the line coming from David, and he was in that line leading to Lord Jesus (Matt. 1:12; Luke 3:27). More on that in little while.

Is significant what God says he will do – without question the actions and achievements of God’s redemptive plan are essential to the plan. But… must guard against getting so caught up in the action we lose sight of who the Actor is. Any hope we have for the future cannot be limited to promised actions and events, no matter how iron-clad guarantee on promise is. If our focus is on events taking place, we will often be disheartened by what we see and what we don’t see – earthly powers acting while God delays. Our hope, our confidence must first be in God himself. Our hope is warranted because it is God, YHWH who rules. It is God who establishes his people. It is God who declares what He will do.

A. God rules  v.20-22

natural

God repeats what he declared earlier (2:6-7) and amps it up: “Once more… I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; and I will shake all nations”

when God shakes the universe, things happen – ultimately will be shaken and restored from results of the Fall and curse

the one who has power to do all that not inclined to leave natural world to its own devices in meantime – if rain falls on just/unjust according to his plan, calamities also under his sovereign rule

God’s good purpose in redemption extends to created natural order – looks like nature more out of control, reminds of what is wrong: everywhere we look with naked eye or assistance, see evidence of God’s creative genius and profound havoc sin caused

yet absolutely none of our universe (or any parallel universes) are beyond God’s wise governing… for his glory and ultimate good of his people

political

God committed to not only “shak[ing] all nations”, he will overthrow all earthly political systems that are contrary to his righteous rule… which on some level is all of them

national governments can implement all sorts of laws and policies designed to oppress and control and exploit, but God sets the boundaries, how far those practices can extend

rise and fall of governments throughout history used by God to advance his plan, to extend Christ’s kingdom – final overthrow when all Christ’s enemies are put under his feet, when all things are made subject to him (1 Cor. 15:26ff)

economic

remember… speaking to governor of Judah, not presently a nation, no currency, no military, no national leader, just a province subject to world power with impressive resources… by man’s measure

one important measure of nation’s strength: its economic clout – plenty of loud rhetoric going back and forth around world: US vs China, UK vs EU, economic sanctions against various rogue nations

then places like Venezuela where currency nearly worthless (prices double in 21 days); bitcoins and other cryptocurrencies of questionable speculative value

if prudent Christians shake their heads over money games, imagine what God thinks – especially since one day will be worthless

at time of God’s choosing, present measures of value and strength will lose all significance – only how things of economic value have been used to advance Kingdom that will endure

military

at that time, Persian empire was world superpower – controlled territory from Greece to India, Aral Sea to Arabian Sea, incl. Libya, Egypt, part of Ethiopia

whether their military or that of subsequent world powers, would be no match for the one God raises up to overthrow them

Assyrians noted for first military used for expansion, barbaric even by ISIS’ standard – gave way to Babylonians, then Medo-Persians, followed by Greeks and Romans… all under God’s direction

yet day will come when pattern will change, God brings about something similar to Gideon and Midianite army – turned on one another while were running away (Judg. 7)

on that Day, all military powers will be overthrown and rider on white horse, Lord Jesus himself will prevail over all

social

not just military action in view where most casualties from friendly fire – is upheaval of social order with everyone for himself

personal loyalty, family ties no longer sufficient to keep aggression and violence in check – will be move to total autonomy

in all this shaking, upheaval, overturning of powers and structures as we know them, one entity comes through changed yet unharmed – Christ’s church

truth is, purpose of all of this is the good of God’s people – enemies of God and his people will be subdued, God will be glorified and his people purified

everything world trusts in will be overthrown: availability of natural resources, political structures, economic might, military power, interpersonal fabric of society – as God orchestrates all that, will be moving his people toward his goal for them

B. God establishes his people  v.23

prince, yet only governor

Zerubbabel knew who he was, where he “should” be sitting, what he should be doing… yet, were strict limits to power / authority

God graciously sent prophet to him specifically with direct message – what God intended for his future – in spite of how it looked, God not done with line of David

had promised an enduring “dynasty” to David (2 Sam. 7:12ff), then to Solomon (1 Ki. 9:4-5) – God intended to work his plan… including Zerubbabel in it… to reestablish throne… a better one

a signet ring

even though Zerubbabel highly favored of God, he would not become king – he would point to the king, a symbol of future restored royal line

the one with the ring has significance because of who the ring represents – Zerubbabel in his role as God’s man governing remnant of his people would help to keep them mindful of God’s promise

also a key figure in Messiah’s story – responsible for overseeing restoration of Temple where that promised greater glory would someday be apparent

and viewed as significant in minds of Gospel writers – genealogies in Matt. & Luk. run together as far as David, then diverge until Shealtiel & Zerubbabel, diverge again until Joseph – Zerubbabel evidence of God’s intent to send Messiah

a chosen one

change of fortunes not going to be result of typical political processes – negotiations, treaties, even military action

will come about by God’s overruling choice and action – necessary because of who is ultimately in view… Messiah, his present and his eventual ultimate rule on that Day

C. hope in God

repeatedly, in this final message through Haggai, is God declaring what he will do – message of great promise and blessing for sure

yet only has value and meaning because of who is speaking – if only Haggai, pay no attention; if YHWH Sabaoth, take to bank

Psa. 42:5, 11; 43:5 

“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance.”

“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”  2x

if all we consider is condition of world, of church, of family, of government… no question – will be cast down. Looking only at promises, counting on promises, waiting….. for promises, will be disappointed

must look at promises as given by God, confident in God who keeps his promises, and remembering this: God does not keep his promises because we are such wonderful people – he keeps them for the sake of “His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things” (Heb. 1:2). We will share in those promises if and only if we are in Christ.

If that is all really true, and we really believe it, then… all those apart from Christ are as Paul described, Eph. 2:12 –

“without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.”

As we get closer to that Day, is more urgent we do all we can to bring others to understanding of genuine hope, saved and lost alike. 

I Will Not Go Up in Your Midst

Exodus 33:1-11  

Ever get some bad news… then have that sinking feeling that more bad news coming? And maybe haven’t heard worst news yet? Moses and Israelites in that boat – had gotten bad news of God’s just anger against them, had felt the pain of consequences – 6000 who died in first wave of punishment, 23000 who lost lives in plague God sent. As hard as all that was, God wasn’t finished, they hadn’t learned all the lessons yet. Ones still needed to learn more important still.

Would have been easy for Israelites to think problem was the gold thing they made, and ok, so they did get carried away in their antics. If they had not made the calf, if they had toned down their worship, they wouldn’t have gotten into trouble. Um, no, was whole lot more to their sin than just those things. God intended for them to understand world of difference between what they thought they wanted and needed, what God in his perfect wisdom had in mind for his people.

What comes next in text and following continue to demonstrate “the width and length and depth and height” of God’s love and grace and mercy toward his people. God did not abandon them even though would have been justified in doing so. Did not destroy them all and start over, ditto. Instead, God continued to work out his purpose of redemption, his plan to have a people devoted to worshiping him above all else. In process, Israelites would learn much about themselves and the God who declared he would be their God and they would be his people.

Three key points brought out in this passage:
first, we don’t realize how important or valuable something is until we lose it
second, man’s attempt to define worship only causes distance from the true God
and third, man was designed as a companion, not a consumer

A. We don’t realize how important or valuable something is until we lose it  v.1-6

next instruction

get up and go – God doesn’t leave them wondering… plague is over, will be no further “immediate” consequences for their sin

didn’t leave Moses in question… was his intercession successful – Moses still the one God would deal with, and was not intending to start over, make another nation starting with Moses

take possession of the land – God hasn’t forgotten his promise, still intends to fulfill it as he promised – another indication he has not abandoned people

follow the leader – will not leave them without guidance but… not the same Angel that has been with them so far – will be a good angel, a powerful angel, but not the angel

what’s included

point man – an Angel would show them the way – not going to be the pillar of cloud and fire that had led and protected them

protection – I will drive out – God still committed to protecting / defending his people from harm… but can feel distance growing

not same feeling of close relationship – “come this way” – more “go that way”, God will perhaps be in the neighborhood… some of the time

provision – land flowing – unlike after Adam and Eve’s sin, Israel’s sin against God has not yet brought curse on land promised to them – will still be sufficient for their needs

promise – no further immediate punishment for their rebellion – not left unspoken, God brings up their sinful tendencies

still at risk even though present danger is over – likely they will offend God again, further reminder of their ongoing need

what’s left out

“I will not go” – can feel pit in their stomach growing as they hear these words – in one sense for their good, survival for a while

at same time what kind of life will it be – prolonging life for the sake of more days… or would it be life worth living

and what about the tabernacle? – had given Moses plans, instructions for construction crew / materials / how to use

no mention of any of that now – simply “get up and go” – God said “I will not go up in your midst” but where would he be

and if he wasn’t among them and there were no defined place of worship, who could approach God, how would that ever happen, would Moses be the only privileged one?

their response

audible mourning – gave voice to their disappointment, grief, sadness – kind of response at death of close friend or loved one – what happens when you’ve lost something/someone you realize was really important

visible mourning – God required more than lip service, expected them to actively demonstrate repentance for their great sin and God’s response to it

God didn’t need to figure anything out about his further response to their actions – people needed to see direct connection between action and consequence

yes, God is loving and gracious but… does not mean they or we get to do whatever we want, then somehow make it right

“it’s easier to ask forgiveness than ask permission” doesn’t work with God, shouldn’t with us if repentance is truly sincere

B. Man’s attempt to define worship only causes distance from the true God  v.7-10

what they wanted

a god they could see and touch – one who was within reach… and really one they could control – would have been happy with Alexa, virtual assistant developed by Amazon, responding to voice command

a god who would gratify their desires… not expect them to control them or, God forbid, change them – resisted any attempts at control (v.25, running wild)

what they got

a lifeless, powerless lump – did nothing on its own, never said a word or moved a muscle, could not resist Moses’ work to destroy it

a real God who withdrew – real living breathing God came to meet with Moses at tent of meeting he pitched outside the camp

teacher in 5th grade, unique method of discipline – misbehaving in class, stand on threshold… facing out of the room – not part of the class, not part of anything in the hall

God not part of the group, not meeting / dwelling with his people as had once promised – outside, they could watch from a distance while Moses met with God

regular reminders – any time person needed something from God, had to leave the camp… like going outside the city / wall

every time Moses needed to approach God, had to leave the camp… and was watched by everyone; every time pillar of cloud appeared, people worshiped… from a distance… not as God intended it

what they needed

God greater than they could make – no way they could make a god adequate to their need, not even enough for their desires

present in their midst – to really be their God and them to really be his people could not happen effectively with them living in the camp, God living outside the camp – needed to live together

approachable… through a mediator – one who would actually see, hear, speak and act… for their good

C. Man was designed as a companion, not a consumer  v.11

speaking

pictures may be worth 1000 words but… must be sure have the right words to go with the picture – vital that we do when talking about God and salvation

God didn’t rely solely on pictures – did give pictures, words to accompany ref. Ps. 19, natural and special revelation; Lord’s Table, baptism – clear explanation given of what’s in the picture

words are essential to complete communication – some things simply cannot be communicated with pictures, need the words – try explaining full significance of the cross with just pictures

face to face

even with words, good communication requires more – body language… facial expression, tone of voice, gestures communicate more than the words do

words are no substitute for fellowship – 2 John 12; 3 John 13-14 — even inspired apostle didn’t rely on texting to make his point

unspoken communication also significant – two people present in same space can minister to one another without words

things achieved through touch and no other way – babies who aren’t held, touched, even if all other needs are met can die – send all the hugs you want on social media, it’s not the same

as to a friend

degree of intimacy – things you talk about with friend but not with neighbor, coworker, cashier… even more so with God

shared experience – conscious awareness of his presence… right here, not… over there, and not just in corporate worship: think Enoch, walking together side by side

common goal / purpose – those who walk together as friends going in same direction, at same pace, constant updates

what Moses experienced first-hand, Joshua came really close, everyone else at a distance, not face to face in personal space

Perhaps have heard, maybe even have said “Christianity is a relationship, not a religion”. If religion = an institutionalized system of faith and worship, then Christianity is a religion centered on a personal relationship with Lord Jesus lived out in relationship with fellow believers. Heaven an empty goal, worthless pursuit if Jesus isn’t there… but don’t wait till heaven to desire him, fellowship with him, to walk with him.

A Call to Holiness of Life

Haggai 2:10-19 

Brief timeline to catch up: first message September 21, 520, people repented and got to work; second message of encouragement October 17; now third message, December 18 with further cautions and exhortations. This particular date, 24th day of 9th month not associated with festival but… is most important date in all of Haggai – repeated 3 times (v.10, 18, 20), significance identified in v.18

“from the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, from the day that the foundation of the Lord’s temple was laid;”

A day of great significance / importance to Jews living in Jerusalem and surrounding area, the date when the Temple destroyed by Babylonians was refounded. 3 months after work started up again – ok, we’re doing the right thing but we’re still poor; what’s up with that? Had the outward marks of obedience, conformity to God’s expectations, but little had changed for the workers personally.

Would appear was not only construction crew that needed help, Temple staff hadn’t been doing all their job either. Got out of practice during time in captivity, had not recovered all their skills during 15 years back in Jerusalem. Were at least covering basics of religious rituals – regular sacrifice, observance of at least some of the feasts… no record of Passover being observed from time Solomon’s temple destroyed until after Zerubbabel’s completed. One thing lacking in interim: regular pastoral instruction designed to teach God’s people how to live pleasing to him. Haggai’s questions (supplied by God) help point that out to priests. Haggai’s dialogue carried on between him and priests but had people as whole in view.

Important part of work belonging to priests and Levites – Neh 8:8 “So they read distinctly from the book, in the Law of God; and they gave the sense, and helped them to understand the reading.” At least in matter of holy living, had not given adequate teaching and application of God’s Word. Haggai begins with holiness – where does it come from, how do you get it, why do you need it. Then he moves ot how the past relates to the future in relation to their way of life and their circumstances. Finally, addresses the possibility of change in the present bringing about change in the future.

A. what about holiness?  v.10-14

where it comes from

holiness is not contagious – not airborne, not transmitted by contact – something holy cannot make something else holy

holiness cannot be self-acquired or self-administered – no action can give it, no place can make person or thing in it holy

any ritual that is carried out may signify that something is holy, set apart for God’s use, but does not make it intrinsically so

holiness must ultimately come from the one who is perfectly holy – God alone meets that condition, he alone has authority to define terms of holiness

how you get it

holiness is not something you do, it is a condition of who you are – no one has the ability to change their nature or status before God

is something that God supplies, most powerfully by the presence and action of his Spirit – is what God does in us that also has external evidence

individual can make choices, engage in behaviors and ways of thinking to encourage growth in holiness – one who is genuinely holy (converted) will do so in some measure

e.g., regular sacrifice, attendance / participation in stated feasts, instruction from Law of God, close association with others who feared God and kept his laws, pattern of daily life consistent with godly principles

why you need it

God’s desire and intention that his work be done by holy people – according to his standard unholy people cannot offer satisfactory gifts to God

principle articulated earlier still applies: 1 Sam. 16:7 “the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

external appearance of person and gift might appear to meet God’s requirements but… without changed heart dedicated to pleasing God out of love for him, will not receive God’s approval

so… here’s starting place: if work on temple since restart to be acceptable to God and receive his blessing, people must be God’s kind of people doing it God’s way… in all respects – right work done right way by people living right and desiring what is right

B. how does the past relate to the future?  v.15-17

3x – “consider it” (v.15, 18, 19), looking forward – if you want a different future, you need to take these things into account

what you were doing

situation perhaps best expressed in way we can all relate to: the faster I go the behinder I get – harder I try to get ahead, more ground I lose – exactly what Haggai described in 1:6, summarized in 2:16-17

were doing right things, probably many of them good things – problem was they were not the “first” things, most important

God expected that his work would have first priority, then they could attend to own needs – in that order, would be adequate resources for both

putting personal needs / goals first, failing to meet them, adding more time and energy but with no positive change in results

what your circumstances were

didn’t matter how hard they tried, was never quite enough – more effort actually resulted in them losing ground, further behind

once again, God takes direct credit for their hardship – God caused their calamity… on purpose… to give  reason to turn to him

and yet… persisted in pursuing own solution… to their great disappointment – good reminder: if our way isn’t working, stop and check.. is it God’s way

does this sound familiar? anyone you know that might fit same pattern? a good set of principles here to challenge saved / unsaved family or friends

if God thought was good idea to remind both saved & unsaved of what he expected, what he was doing to get their attention, we shouldn’t be shy about using same reminders

C. how does the present potentially change the future?  v.18-19

what changed

people had changed in response to Haggai’s message – they obeyed God, they came and worked on the house as they were challenged

construction began again, serious enough effort that got Tattenai and Shethar-Boznai’s attention – correspondence w/Darius

apparently from God’s perspective: was a change but… was an outward / external change prompted by fear of God’s presence

same kind of motivation that keeps (at least for now) majority of citizens law-abiding – fear of consequences motivates compliance

what didn’t change

had returned to Jerusalem expecting certain things: basically smooth sailing in spheres of life… home, church, public arena

encountered opposition to their efforts – had material help, supplies and money, but… were opposed in their work by enemies and then (after they had changed focus) by God

from soon after first work on temple stopped, life got hard and stayed that way – everything came at great sacrifice w/ little joy

by God’s design, since in face of hardship they continued to do same thing same way for same reasons but maybe with more energy and greater effort, results did not change

what needs to change

was all about what they could see, what they could achieve or acquire… but see what God said he wanted, v.17 – he made life hard and they turned back to the work – God wanted them to turn back to Him

at beginning they had a desire for the temple, needed a desire for the God of the temple – lots of nostalgia for the way things were… sights, sounds, rituals of a religious culture, longing for the good ol’ days

God’s desire was for something different – he wanted hearts of his people first, then the work of their hands – he wanted them to want him first and most

desire for God is soon followed by desire to please God which then leads to desire for God’s benefits… as evidence of his favor

what will change

when all God had done – sent calamity and then sent prophets – brought about his desired result, then he promises to bless them

does require trust – that when we devote time and energy to God first, what we have left will be enough to meet our own needs

would actually be the reverse of their experience – more work brought less results, when God is first less work brings more results

means they had to trust God to provide results of his choosing when they lived and acted his way

Simply doing work of ministry guarantees only one thing – you’ll be tired at end of day. If we are to experience God’s blessing, must be committed to doing all of life his way… at home, at work, in community, in church.

What is “real” goal – that lots of people would show up, or that God would be present? The real goal as in what comes first and without it nothing else matters. That we would have this that or the other, or that God would bless the work of our hands as he sees fit?

Have opportunities each day to engage people who are just like Haggai’s neighbors. We know the principles to tell them, something else can have even greater influence – our own story, when/how God has blessed our devotion and obedience. And… let’s be sure we have right desires and attitudes about ministry work.

Who Is On the Lord’s Side?

Exodus 32:19-35

Hard to wrap minds around what Moses experienced there on the mountain. We talk about mountain-top experiences, those exhilarating times – opportunities for great spiritual encouragement and growth, gaining new insights into God’s word and character. Rewarding times of fellowship and joy, then comes time when must leave mountain-top, head down into valley, try to pick up threads of life where we left it. Sometimes take with us commitment to some sort of change, may or may not have lasting effect.

Moses had time of his life up there, unlike anything experienced after Adam and Eve’s first days in Garden. Kind of thing Moses didn’t even try to describe. And then… God, with gracious understatement, warned Moses about what awaited him at foot of mountain – read v.7-8. God told Moses enough… but not everything – what people were doing but not how outrageous behavior really was. God rightly called them “a stiff-necked people”, obstinate and rebellious.

Joshua, meanwhile, had no idea what was happening. Moses hoping for best, thinking worst had fears confirmed closer he got. No wonder he couldn’t bear to tell Joshua entire truth, what noise was really all about. Than as scene unfolded before eyes and ears, Moses knew had to act in decisive way. Like bucket of ice water in face of hysterical person, had to bring stampede to halt, then deal with horribly sinful behavior immediately. To deal with anything else first would minimize the outrageousness of their conduct.

And remember… could just as easily be written about us: 1 Cor. 10:6-7 “Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. And do not become idolaters as were some of them.” No need for the warning if there is no risk!

A. confrontation  v.19-21

by the Law of God

given previous aggressive behavior at Massah and Meribah (ch. 17), disregard for God’s presence on the mountain, bullying Aaron, mob mentality – Moses’ authority nowhere near sufficient to turn tide of thought and act

only tangible thing he had… really the best thing he had… in his hands – very word of God, his Law, his standard, his expectations

was summary of what Moses read Ex. 24:7, people agreed to: “All that the LORD has said we will do, and be obedient.”

shattering tablets in sight of all the people simply displayed their breaking of God’s covenant by their sinful idolatry

by the futility of their idol

if god they were worshiping in place of YHWH really deserved their loyalty, how in world could he stand idly by while Moses single-handedly ground his image to powder?

if their substitute god could not resist Moses’ action, no way would ever lead them anywhere, at least not anywhere safe

even though talking about powdered gold, after people ate it nobody was ever going to try gathering pieces to reassemble

by the righteous displeasure of Moses

some had quieted down, were catching on to just how seriously angry Moses was, at that moment did not give any push-back

then… goes after his big brother – basically asking how the people sinned against Aaron in forcing Aaron to sin so greatly

Aaron catches on real fast that he’s in big trouble for facilitating such a big sin (his own and people’s) while standing in for Moses

B. excuses  v.22-24

not a big deal

“don’t get so upset” basically Aaron’s words as he shields face from heat of Moses’ anger – “Moses, you’re overreacting, not really that serious”

always one of first steps when confronted with sin – tone it down, try to make less weighty than really is; truth is, all sin is fatal

their fault

took page from Adam and Eve’s playbook – did speak truth, people were indeed set on evil; recognizing that should have made Aaron more vigilant instead of giving him excuse for weakness

second step in dealing with sin – “the devil made me do it” – blame-shifting, trying to lay blame on circumstances, companions

didn’t expect this

willingness of people to give up things of great value to Aaron might have surprised Aaron – certainly not a prudent order to give

ends with really ridiculous justification – claiming if God could speak from a burning bush, could make image from burning gold

C. separation  v.25-29

NOTE: task of leaders God gives to his people… restrain the people, keep them from running wild, refusing to enable their sin

this sad event in Israel’s history strong evidence for need to follow closely qualifications given for shepherds in local church

pick a side

talk about choosing sides as if more than one – really is only one worth considering: the Lord’s side – two options, the Lord’s side, not the Lord’s side… any other distinctions far less important

choosing to be on the Lord’s side requires: public action, public identification – acting to confirm choice and identity, clearly identified before watching world

given how out of control people were, taking stand like Moses required had great personal risk – not waiting for emotions to cool off, instead confronting sin at its peak and stopping in its tracks – man, tank, Tienanmen Square

take a weapon

only men from Moses’ tribe who stood with him… against tribesman Aaron… and took up arms… against neighbors and family

before you call God harsh in allowing this, think again – God declared his sentence up on the mountain, they all deserved to die

in this case, immediate consequences, at least for some, for their sin – clear picture for everyone else present just how seriously God takes idol worship

enjoy the reward

v. 29 – “Today you have been ordained for the service of the LORD, each one at the cost of his son and of his brother, so that he might bestow a blessing upon you this day.”

a hard stand for Levites to take but… any blessing God gives for obedience far surpasses any benefit from worshiping false god

blessing for Levites: because they took stand, confirmed by decisive action that they were serious, God gave priestly responsibilities

D. intercession  v.30-34b

a great sin

serious enough that even 3,000 lives not enough to cover the debt for this kind of sin against God – Moses could easily compare glory / holiness / purity of God he had just seen to blackness of people’s sin

at this point Moses could have agreed with God: as bad as these people are, you better start over – instead, acts with compassion

since Moses had spent weeks in presence of God, had ample opportunity to know his own heart, how on his own just as prone to sin as people were – so… commits to carrying on role as mediator

a great need… for forgiveness

seems impossible to come up with greater sin against God – thinking coud make better substitute than living creator God already was

no way would be possible for people to pay price for their sin by other than death – only source of hope… that God could / would somehow be inclined to forgive, not hold their sin against them

a great cost – disinherited

here Moses’ heart of compassion really shows – if you can forgive them…., if not, punish me in their place; take away my inheritance, take away my life instead of theirs

carries even greater weight because of God’s earlier statement about starting over with Moses – giving all of that up for the people

a great promise – the Angel

Moses cannot atone for even his own sin, much less that of Hebrew children – was also unable, on his own, to rightly lead them

so God graciously gives Moses assurance: can’t accept Moses’ terms, but will send his Angel, his presence to lead in right way

and… when God does punish, he will be merciful – he will not give them what they deserve, even though will be consequences

E. consequences  v.34c-35

plague

judgment would be certain, not told explicitly what it was – some sort of plague that God sent, took 23,000 additional lives on that day (1 Cor. 10:8)

likely the ones who paid with their lives those who persisted in rebellion, who used idol worship as excuse for other immorality

punishment

once again God makes plain: sin must be punished, sin will be punished – because God is holy and just, no escaping that reality

Moses, most clearly of anyone in Bible up to this point, demonstrates principle of a substitute – Moses had the heart but not other necessities to fill that role… and he pictures that one for us… the Lord Jesus

What made Moses different? What helped him avoid sin of idolatry? Remember where he was – in presence of true God. So long as we drink crystal clear cool refreshing spring water, tap water will never satisfy no matter how thirsty we get. So long as we are satisfying our desires with God himself, no false god will have attraction for us. Safest place for us is at foot of the cross, constantly mindful that our hope must be in Christ alone, our trust in Christ alone, our satisfaction in Christ alone.

32. Which is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold….the gift or the altar that sanctifies the gift?

Matthew 23:17, 19 Fools and blind! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold? Fools and blind! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that sanctifies the gift?

Read: Matthew 23:16-22

similarities to Lk 11:37-54 occurring earlier in Jesus’ ministry; one “harmony” looks for way to have Matthew’s account be out of place, better suited to small dinner setting; the rest take chronological placement as indicating 2 separate occasions when Jesus denounced religious leaders blindness and hypocrisy

Setting:

in the Temple area; probably Tuesday of Passion Week; scribes, Pharisees, crowds and the Twelve present

Person(s) being questioned:

Matt. 23:1 “Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples”

“woe to you, scribes and Pharisees” – v.13, 14, 15, 23, 25, 27, 29; “woe to you, blind guides” – v.16

highlighting erroneous teaching of religious leaders, questioning them directly, encouraging all w/i earshot to think critically

Question behind the question:

What is the purpose of the temple?

What / who should be the focus of activities at the temple?

How does this teaching promote truth and justice?

Expected response:

should have responded – temple and altar – both have use and significance regardless of gold or specific gift

their teaching about oaths and vows implied just the opposite – apparently they couldn’t “see” the contradiction

description of Matt. 22:46 carried on even in face of Jesus calling down curses on them – “no one was able to answer Him a word”

Jesus’ point:

truth / integrity

what’s the use of an oath or vow if you can get out of it on a technicality?

how does it advance the truth if you say one thing and mean another?

how can you claim to lead others to the truth when your “rules” encourage deception?

worship

think about why you go to church – to worship the things you bring… or the one who makes the church holy?

if the gold and the gift rank higher than anything else in their surroundings, what is the real focus of worship?

bottom line

nothing you are swearing by can hold you accountable and you know that… only God can – and where is he in the picture?

Modern Application:

effect of lack of trust on culture

society / community disintegrates, becomes radical individualism if there is no interpersonal trust – destroys relationships, paralyzes commerce, worship becomes self-focused

must be those known for commitment to truth and integrity – people of our word and the Word, upholding the truth: John 14:6; 1 Tim. 3:15

keeping right focus / emphasis in worship

what we call worship

shouldn’t call something worship that isn’t just because it happens at church, with Christians

how we do worship

each element of a worship service should intentionally draw attention to the proper object of worship, God

anything that encourages undue attention elsewhere should be avoided or eliminated

where we go to worship

whatever there is about the worship space that draws attention away from the proper object should be altered or removed

in all things, whatever does attract the attention of worshipers should focus it on a true representation of God

 

A Call to Find Courage in God’s Promises

Haggai 2:1-9

Entire time of “serious” building approx. 4-1/2 years:

Hag. 1:14-15 they came and worked on the house of the LORD of hosts, their God, on the twenty-fourth day of the sixth month, in the second year of King Darius. (Sept. 21, 520 BC)

Ezr. 6:15 Now the temple was finished on the third day of the month of Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of King Darius. (Mar. 12, 515 BC)

Wasn’t all smooth sailing. Tattenai, Shethar-Boznai and allies challenged Zerubbabel and Joshua – who gave permission for this? (Ezr. 5:3ff) Gave straight answer, was Cyrus who issued decree, etc. Persians, of course, had to verify – sent to Darius, check the archives, tell us what to do. Darius took situation seriously, work on temple had first begun during his lifetime before his time as king with access to royal archives. Commissioned a search, decree of Cyrus found. Darius responded; gave partial quote of Cyrus’ decree, then gave his own orders:

Ezra 6:6-7 “Now therefore, Tattenai, governor of the region beyond the River, and Shethar-Boznai, and your companions the Persians who are beyond the River, keep yourselves far from there. Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God on its site.”

Doesn’t take long to tell the story, took much longer for it all to play out – mail back and forth, extended search (first at Babylon, then Achmetha 300 miles away). Meanwhile, Jews back at Jerusalem wondering how would all turn out, continuing to work and look over their shoulders. Several things that could certainly cause discouragement:

almost immediate opposition… again; left-over shame from prophet’s rebuke in first sermon; perhaps questioning by those who had not heard message (you sure about this?); and then the whole thing about comparisons… this worship center compared to that worship center.

7 weeks after first sermon… time for another – this to be a one-two from Haggai and then Zechariah a couple weeks later. Not meant to beat God’s people down, rather to build them up. Yes, there are elements of rebuke in last three prophets, but far outweighed by focus on glories yet to come. Even though intended to incite people to “labor for the kingdom”, prophets made it clear would be God’s power, God’s plan, God himself working his purpose through his people. Also keep in mind: prophetic lens doesn’t always give clear indications of perspective… how near or distant events in view are.

A. expanded audience v.1-2

cp. 1:1 and 2:2 – ” the word of the LORD came by Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest” vs “Speak now to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and to the remnant of the people“

first message to political and religious leaders

would need their leadership if work was to get started again – and could not be half-hearted or people wouldn’t get on board

first sermon focused on principle, need to make God and his work the prioirity… even for those in ministry – simply being busy about church work doesn’t guarantee right / best things are being done

included ones leaders were directly responsible for

expected that Zerubbabel would call together government workers, declare to them what prophet had said, make sure they all knew what right response would be

similar scenario for Joshua and all religious workers associated with Temple (priests and Levites) – would hear from Joshua if not directly from Haggai

both groups of leaders needed to be on-board, committed to the work – in face of opposition, any weakness from leaders would spread like wildfire through the people

second message directed to same plus the remnant (2)

reinforcing message to leaders, one of encouragement to leaders and people – Haggai spoke as if they were all present and all on same page

was next to last day of third pilgrimage festival, excellent time for addressing crowd and drawing attention to work yet to be done

B. encouraging message v.3-5

doesn’t look like much (3)

real need for encouragement – seventh month the busiest one on calendar… three feasts: Feast of Trumpets (1), Day of Atonement (10), Feast of Tabernacles (15-22)

all taking place in middle of construction zone – “competing” interests… keeping the feasts, getting the work done, hard to do both

foundation had been laid, walls started, opposition halted progress but… obvious from what was done would never rival Solomon’s

be strong (4a)

is easy to hurry through verse 4, shouldn’t do that – those words were spoken by Haggai face-to-face with intended hearers

looking directly at Zerubbabel, making eye contact, maybe even up close and personal, given God’s personally directed exhortation

same for Joshua, the high priest, given God’s individual message to them in sight and hearing of crowd gathered for festival

then was crowd’s turn to hear same words – “be strong, all you people of the land” – some powerful associations: “be strong” 3x, the land… end of the Exodus / beginning of Entrance to Canaan, Josh. 1:6-9

almost a given: big promise coming up – just as God did big things in giving them land he promised, would again do big things

work (4b)

but… for promise to be fulfilled, God’s people needed to do their part – go back to work, complete assignment while trusting God

reminder that God’s presence is not always obvious – looked like God had left the job site, why progress halted… not true

could / should begin work again… even though nothing obvious had changed… yet there was change: two prophets on site, tangible representations of God’s presence and care

do not fear (5)

and… no need for fear if they move forward in his strength and directed / accompanied by his Spirit – after all, it’s God’s project

God who kept promises 1000 years before has not forgotten – God’s purpose to redeem his people from both slavery and sin still very much in force… and moving forward

C. expectant future v.6-9

God has the power (6-7a)

entire universe will be shaken up – heaven and earth – and all the inhabitants – sea and dry land and all nations

not something that could be mistaken for “forces of nature” at work, even in response to mankind’s presence and meddling

this the kind of response of earth in particular to immediate presence of God – Haggai’s listeners would make quick connections

during Feast of Tabernacles, time established by God for them to remember Lev. 23:43 “that I made the children of Israel dwell in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.”

at beginning of wilderness time Ex. 19:18 “Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly.”

Sinai was preliminary example, Calvary another, will be final shaking when current order of things totally upended, restored

NOTE: don’t forget – people were being called to work, to do job God had assigned but… would be God exercising his power that changed the world

God has the Person (7b, 9a)

this poor substitute temple will be filled with glory, glory that far exceeds any associated with former (Solomon’s) temple

the place where this remnant were laboring would be place where desire of all nations would be met, would satisfy them

on that spot God would worship God – the Son worshiping the Father, the place where effect of Christ’s atonement first displayed… the rent veil, signifying free access to Father through Son

God has the provision (8)

God declares he owns all the resources, that statement the “filling” between “I will fill this temple with glory” and “The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former”

yet God never states his intention to make gold and silver the glory of the temple – people needed to look for glory in something other than construction materials

whatever God provided for materials would satisfy him, should satisfy them – glory would come from who was there, who was worshiped there – Person greater than Solomon (Matt. 12:42) would give greater glory to Temple

God will perform (9b)

God, YHWH Sabaoth, repeatedly declares what he will do – their future and future of Temple entirely in God’s hands

their responsibility to do the work, God is responsible for outcome/results – not to be distsracted by appearances… either potential hindrances or humble building

God could give the world a king from a stable; a savior from a criminal’s cross and borrowed tomb in city governed by pagans

Should not be either distracted or discouraged by appearances… if is clear God is at work. Is presence and power of God that gives glory to individuals as temple of Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19), a place of worship whether dedicated sanctuary or simply place where God’s people gather (Acts 16:13). Our responsibility to trust in God and his promises, work diligently at task he has assigned, count on God to bring about results according to his eternal plan.

Moses Stands in the Gap

Exodus 32:11-18

No clearer picture, no louder statement could be made than the worship of a golden calf – God’s covenant by itself is powerless to save. That is true of every covenant God has made in the history of mankind. Whether a covenant is in force or not, only the sovereign gracious act of God saves lost sinners. The same is true for all other forms of human effort – no preached message, no Gospel tract, no revival meeting altar call, no sinner’s prayer will convert a lost soul. Only the power of God can give life to someone dead in trespasses and sins. Without question, God uses Gospel preaching and tracts and the like as means that lead to salvation. But for there to be genuine conversion, God by his power must change a person from inside out,

Something else God has deemed necessary to relate to his people – a mediator. Job understood that – Job 9:32-33“For He is not a man, as I am, that I may answer Him, and that we should go to court together. Nor is there any mediator between us, who may lay his hand on us both.” There must be someone to stand in the gap, to bridge the chasm between a holy God and sinful man, to bring them together on friendly terms.

There on the mountain, hearing righteous anger in God’s voice, understanding what it signified for his fellow Israelites, Moses acted.

A. Moses pleads with God v.11-13

questions God – “Why?”

more than simple desire to hear God explain and defend why he is so angry with the people – YHWH already told Moses what they had done… and Moses knew what that meant: rejected/abandoned God, broken covenant, etc

is asking how it can possibly be in God’s best interest to destroy people he did so much to deliver from slavery – how would that ever make God look good?

and… why would God do something that could so easily be “misunderstood”, that would make YHWH appear just like other gods

“corrects” God – “your people”

God said to Moses “your people… you brought” – Moses says “wait a minute, they’re not my people, they’re your people”

way more weight of responsibility than Moses would accept… and rightly so – really are not his people, are truly God’s people

Moses could only take credit for bringing people out of Egypt if Noah could take credit for rounding up animals and putting 2 x 2 in the ark – Noah and Moses both instruments God used, but… was God’s power, God’s mighty hand at work

confronts God – “remember”

no way that God forgot what he promised, did not need anyone to bring something back to his memory – Moses is changing the subject, shifting focus

takes as given that if God only looks at what people have done, if he judges based on their performance… they are goners

as if Moses said to God “let’s not talk about them, let’s talk about you – consider your character, your faithfulness, your promises”

is just as true for every lost sinner in need of salvation: if all we do is talk about the sinner and his sin, situation is absolutely hopeless

good news of Gospel – someone who stands in the gap to change the subject: salvation comes about solely by power of God, action of God

Moses’ changed character

Psa. 106:23 “Therefore He said that He would destroy them, Had not Moses His chosen one stood before Him in the breach, To turn away His wrath, lest He destroy them.”

Moses volunteered to stand in the gap – God didn’t ask him to do it, in fact offered Moses huge bonus if he did nothing – “I will make of you a great nation.”

Moses not only considered treasures of Egypt as having little or no personal value, had come to value the lives of Israelites

Moses freely refused the gift, put himself personally at great risk… for sake of rebellious obstinate idolatrous people… who deserved to die – does that sound familiar??

B. God responds to Moses v.14

teaches value / power of intercession

was in response to Moses’ pleading that God changed course – God would not bring destruction on his people as he threatened

from our perspective God changed direction, changed his mind – from God’s POV, was all going precisely according to plan

God teaching Moses, Israelites, and us vital lesson – prayer, in particular prayers of intercession matter: should be regular part of our prayer life to intercede for others expecting God to change course of events and expected outcome

let’s make relevant application: see what’s happening in our country, with our friends/neighbors/fellow citizens – don’t give up and pray for Second Coming – instead pray like Moses for God to be merciful

came time later on in Israel’s history when God said:“I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.” Eze. 22:30

may we not give God opportunity to say that about us, our nation

shows greatness of his mercy

consider what is taking place: God is furious, threatens to utterly destroy his people and start over with Moses, then draws back

remember how paragraph ends in v.18 – people haven’t changed, still engaged in worship of idol, while they were doing that God turned away his wrath… because of the mediator

Ex. 34:6-7 “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth,keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin”

Rom. 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Tit. 3:4-5 “But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared,not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us”

goal is repentance

God takes no pleasure in destruction of his enemies – wasn’t secretly hoping to carry out his threat, then got talked out of it

true of threats of disaster, even when God does bring calamity – his intention is that people will repent of sinfulness, turn to Him

Jeremiah 18:6-10 “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?” says the LORD. “Look, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!The instant I speak concerning a nation and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, to pull down, and to destroy it,if that nation against whom I have spoken turns from its evil, I will relent of the disaster that I thought to bring upon it.And the instant I speak concerning a nation and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it,if it does evil in My sight so that it does not obey My voice, then I will relent concerning the good with which I said I would benefit it.”

God is committed to doing whatever it takes to have a people who worship him in spirit and truth, a people he calls his own

in the process, God blesses obedience… because he is loving and gracious and merciful; he brings consequences for disobedience because he is just and righteous

and in all of this… Israelites would have been destroyed if there were no mediator – same is true for us… if no Mediator to reconcile us to God… to stand in the gap between us and God

C. Moses prepares to confront the people v.15-18

carries the work and words of God

the one who is effective mediator doesn’t make up his own script – in this case, script of covenant written down directly by God

gives confidence in both content of message and the one bringing it – since Moses is acting as God’s messenger, can be trusted

shows depth of God’s love for his people – he wrote out terms of covenant himself, didn’t dictate, communicated personally

intended there to be no doubt about who was source of message, what the actual content and meaning was

cautions Joshua – don’t misunderstand

Joshua thought one kind of music, Moses knew it to be another: not the sound of singing victory, not the sound of singing defeat, but the sound of singing I hear

regularly sing hymns with familiar tunes… different words – happens often in human communication… sounds familiar but has significantly different meaning from what we expect

and remember what Moses had in his hands… word of God – what he and Joshua heard must be in line with words on tablets or God would be displeased

clarifies the condition of the people

isn’t victory, isn’t defeat, is another kind of singing – was Moses too grieved to even identify out loud to Joshua what kind?

encounter with God up the mountain all behind Moses, God already relented… yet people still celebrating their sin and rebellion

would definitely be consequences for their sin, not the utter destruction God had threatened… because of the mediator who stood in the gap

Moses, mediator of Old Covenant, pictures for us nature of work that must be done. His is accurate but incomplete picture – Moses effective in interceding, representing God and people, could only go so far. New Covenant better than Old, its Mediator a better one too. Moses turned away God’s righteous anger over sin of people. Lord Jesus, mediator of New Covenant took full fury of God’s righteous anger over sin of his people.

Israelites were singing in their rebellion – we can sing in our redemption and so we should at every possible opportunity. Declaring the praises of God who sent his own Son to stand in the gap, put his hand on both God and his people. Didn’t simply make reconciliation possible:

2 Cor. 5:19-20 “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.

A Call to Rebuild the Temple

Haggai 1:1-15

Big Theme: Redeemed from Ruin. Was God’s intent in 6th century BC, still is today to redeem a people from ruin (and not just the Jewish people). Zephaniah ended with Jewish people headed for exile (Josiah, prior to 612 BC, last good king of Judah), Haggai picks up the story 100 years later after return to Jerusalem (Darius, 520 BC). Zechariah was called into service two months later.

Small Theme: “the power of God’s redemptive purposes in overcoming the half-heartedness of His people. …The Lord will work with divine power to overcome the half-heartedness of His people in fulfilling His eternal worldwide redemptive purposes in Christ.” Parker

Post-exilic prophets much different tone from pre-exilic

Pre-exilic Prophets

Jonah — Joel — Isaiah — Amos — Hosea — Micah — Nahum — Habakkuk — Zephaniah — Obadiah

aExilic Prophets

Jeremiah — Ezekiel — Daniel

Post-exilic Prophets

Haggai — Zechariah — Malachi

Pre: warning, exhortation to come to their senses while still time; mostly about gloom and doom and destruction with bright spots here and there. No prophet from any period entirely without hope. During: focused on explanation and hope; here’s why it happened, not the end of the world… yet. More content dealing with what is still future than pre-exilic prophets. Post: encouraging God’s people to renewed faithfulness, focusing hope more explicitly on coming Messiah.

Important to remember: Haggai and Zechariah ministering to a “remnant of the people” (1:12, 1:14; 2:2), small portion of entire people group. Were the ones who expressed desire to return to homeland, rebuild a community there after Babylonian exile. Would be by means of that remnant that God would pursue his redemptive plan by sending a Redeemer. In fact, that Redeemer would bring an unsurpassed glory to God’s temple, even greater than that of Solomon’s temple (2:9). That in itself should stir God’s’ people to action!

A. setting v.1

immediate context: Ezra 4:24-5:1

after Babylonian captivity, Cyrus decreed return

set up altar, reinstituted worship, laid foundation for temple

opposed by enemies, stopped by Artaxerxes; languished for ~15 years

four “sermons” in four months

A Call to Rebuild the Temple1:1–15;A Call to Find Courage in God’s Promises2:1–9; A Call to Cleanness of Life2:10–19; A Call to Confidence in the Future2:20–23

not intended to beat the saints down, rather build them up – needed to understand God intended to use them in his long-term plan of redemption

their work to rebuild worship place and worshiping community essential for Jesus’ life and ministry

they didn’t need to fully grasp all the details (when, how, why) in order to carry out task immediately before them

Cyrus’ decree strongly implied he intended those who returned to Jerusalem would rebuild and start using the Temple

B. rebuke v.2-6

people express their inaction (2)

at time of first return 16 years earlier, had abundant resources – government support, many of furnishings/utensils returned, contributions given by themselves and those who stayed behind

ordered supplies, arranged contracts with craftsmen, then hit a wall – opposition by local enemies who manipulated political allies and halted work

simplest, least confrontational position to take: must be message from God, not right time to be working on Temple project

God asks about their indifference (3-4)

God through prophet Haggai challenges way of thinking about work of ministry – really amounted to choice for them how to use available resources

could use time / treasure / talents to further their own ends or use same things to further God’s kingdom… at that time by working on Temple project

laboring to feather their own nests equivalent to showing indifference to God’s work, progress of his redemptive plan

God notes their impoverishment (5-6)

were in fact missing one obvious and important detail – as hard as they were working, they were not getting ahead

work overtime to put money into hat only to find out hat has a hole – something must be wrong, not how God said it would be

was what God promised, for disobedience: Dt. 28:38-40“You shall carry much seed out to the field but gather little in, for the locust shall consume it. You shall plant vineyards and tend them, but you shall neither drink of the wine nor gather the grapes”

C. resume v.7-8

think about it (7)

can picture someone, head down, feet in gear, headed for certain disaster – whoa, whoa, hold up, think about what you’re doing

happens often, get so focused on putting one foot ahead of the other just to try and keep up, can’t see the big picture

brother, stopped for gas, back on interstate… thought it odd which way mile markers were counting – figured out 50 miles later was going the wrong way

get going (8a)

need to turn around, refocus, go back to original plan… building the Temple – go get the stuff and go back to work like before

God told them that knowing all about the politics, knowing what his plan was to deal with it – expected them to act in faith

that was really the root problem – had been acting based on what they could see, not what God intended them to do

for God’s glory (8b)

their first priority needed to be God’s first priority… his glory – had put something else first for last 16 years, to no avail

now God sent prophets to encourage change – God could have gotten job done another way, didn’t choose to do so

all we need to know is that this way God used would bring greatest pleasure and glory to him while achieving his good purpose

D. reason v.9-11

impoverished because they let the temple lie in ruins (9)

great evidence here of God’s mercy – he sent messengers to his people to instruct them what was going on – didn’t leave them to stumble around in the dark

God puts it right out there, in plain language – life is tough for you because I made it that way; I did that because you didn’t put me first like you should have

God withheld His provision (10-11)

don’t blame it on climate change, untreated bird flu, trade war with China, GMO tinkering by Monsanto, weather control by Russia

was because God himself intervened and created their calamity (Isa. 45:7) – altering expected behavior of natural world, outcome of human and animal labor

God used means at his disposal to remove profit from disobedience… and can still do same and more today… and probably does

E. response v.12-15

leaders and people respond in fear and obedience (12)

certain level of indifference / complacency reached all the way to the top – Zerubbabel, godly governor of Judah and Joshua, high priest content with status quo

faithfully doing routine part of daily job, managing best they could “under the circumstances”, at least temporarily abandoned big goal of completing Temple

Haggai (and Zechariah) coming on scene with “YHWH’s message” a wake-up call – their normal not even close to God’s normal

nothing else mattered: recognized God’s messenger with God’s message… only one option: respect (fear) and obey

God reassures them of His presence (13)

had not only lost sight of goal, also lost sense of God’s presence – needed reminder: political opponents they could see did not outrank God they couldn’t see

God was present with his people even though no pillar of cloud / fire, other dramatic visible signs of his presence and availability

people are stirred up to begin work (14-15)

seeing and hearing from God necessary means to rouse people… but wait, there’s more that is absolutely essential

in order for everyone, leaders and people, to respond well, God had to “stir up the[ir] spirit” – energize and encourage (NET)

God not only sent the message by his messengers, God made the message effectual by His Spirit working with their spirits

Two things: pray that God will stir up the hearts of his people to do his work. Pray that God’s people will respond in fear and obedience when they hear his call. And remember – we are included in the group. To pray sincerely requires we be committed to obedience also, not content with status quo either in own immediate circle of influence or larger community of believers and the world.