Previously, we noticed that Haggai called out on the Jewish returnees about the temple. The Scripture before us was the outcome of that call. The Lord stirred up the people and they came in unison to face the task. Those who have been mandated to lead or speak for God must never be weary in doing so. It is God’s Spirit that takes over once the word has been faithfully delivered. Until the word is spoken the Spirit has nothing to work with. The Spirit hovers over the spoken word and causes the effect; it may be of conviction or motivation to duty.
“Until the word is spoken the Spirit has nothing to work with. The Spirit hovers over the spoken word and causes the effect; it may be of conviction or motivation to duty.”
Something else is drawing attention in this verse. Look at the array of people whose spirits were stirred by the Lord. It mentioned Zerubbabel, the governor, and Joshua the high priest. These two were singled out first before the generality of the people. Zerubbabel represented the leadership or the political class; while Joshua stood for the religious entity. We often draw an imaginary line between the political and the church, as if they are mutually exclusive. When God wanted the people to build the temple, he stirred both groups. The lesson from this is that the work of God and His scheme for the end time will require that all hands be on deck. Those who have flair for politics must realise that God can use them for His purpose just the same way He is using those on the pulpit. Believers at this time must know the importance of harmonizing all areas until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our God and of Christ.