Introduction to the Books Haggai & Zachariah

After discussing the books of Esther, Ezra, and Nehemiah, our next few reflections will be on the messages of the Prophets Haggai and Zachariah.

Israel’s historical background provides the context of the messages of both the prophets. When King Cyrus of Persia permitted the exiles to return to their homeland, a group of Jews returned to Jerusalem. Though under the overall control of Persia, the Jews were allowed to establish their leadership in Jerusalem. Their early leaders were the governor Zerubbabel and the high priest Joshua (or Jeshua). These were still the leaders when Haggai and Zechariah began their ministry.

Upon arriving in Jerusalem, the Jews wanted to rebuild the temple. They established an altar for sacrifice and laid the temple's foundation in the second year. However, local opposition halted the construction progress. Haggai and Zachariah, both post-exilic prophets, were chosen by God to challenge the exile to complete the temple rebuilding, which had halted.

The people attributed their failure to opposition from local enemies and difficulties caused by famine. However, the prophets could see the actual reasons for their failure. To both prophets, the issue lay with the people themselves. They were energetic, working for their interests, but lacked the willingness to work for God. The root of the problem was spiritual rather than political or material.

The prophets’ foresight of the situation was quickly validated. When the people resumed work and encountered renewed opposition, the Persian king stepped in to support the Jews. He issued a second decree to affirm King Cyrus’ initial decree and provided financial assistance to ensure the successful completion of the project.

The initial teachings of Haggai and Zechariah were meant to inspire, encourage, and uplift the Jews during their early challenges. Haggai delivered four messages, and Zechariah delivered two for six months. Zechariah shared his third message two years later, and his final two messages were given later in his life. Haggai’s straightforward preaching and Zechariah’s visionary storytelling provided thought-provoking experiences for their listeners, leaving a lasting impact.

Haggai focused on rousing the people from their spiritual slumber and urging them to recommence rebuilding the temple without delay. Zechariah, in harmony with Haggai’s urgent ministry, offered additional guidance. He aimed to spark a lasting spiritual renewal in the people, preparing them to serve God more effectively in the future.

Through Zechariah, God was further preparing his people for the purpose for which he had chosen them. That purpose would find its fulfillment in the coming of the Messiah, the establishment of his kingdom, and the salvation of people worldwide.

The latter half of Zechariah’s book, which consists of two messages delivered probably later in his life, shows that the Jews’ task would not be easy. There would be bitter conflicts with the forces of evil, but the Jews, with their unwavering faith, would ultimately see God’s kingdom triumph.

Let's brace up and be ready to dig in.