HAGGAI STUDY GUIDE AND QUESTIONS

Transcription

1 HAGGAI STUDY GUIDE AND QUESTIONS The Man, The Book and Its Message Little is known about Haggai personally. He was possibly one of those who had been alive when the former temple existed before being sent into exile. He is sometimes referred to as the successful prophet because there is a direct response of obedience to the God s Word spoken through him. The main theme of Haggai can be summed up as, First things first or Consider Your Ways. There are recurring sub-themes throughout the book of messages from the Lord, through Haggai to the people who were in Israel. These messages were given to the earliest returning exiles under Zerubbabel. Historical Time and Background This book of prophecy was sent through Haggai to the first group of exiles returning to their promised homeland of Israel after the 70 year Captivity. His four message were given during a four month period in 520 BC. This captivity was a judgement upon Israel s Southern Kingdom (tribes of Judah and Benjamin) for not giving the land its Sabbath rest, and violating the covenant Law. See the following Scriptures for some basic insight into the Captivity Leviticus 25:1-7 / 2 Chronicles 36:20-23 / Jeremiah 25:11-12; 29:10-14; 30:3 / Daniel 9:1-3. Haggai was a contemporary prophet with Zechariah, before the completion of the Temple, and before Malachi s ministry. He ministered and wrote during the time recorded in Ezra chapters 1 6. The Temple s foundation was laid in 536 BC, but work stopped (because of opposition) until God s Word came through Haggai in 520 BC. It would also be helpful to read Zechariah, along with Ezra 1 6, to have a better understanding of the messages of Haggai. Familiarity with the Old Covenant Law and the history of Israel is also very helpful. Important Contemporary People to Haggai The influential leaders of Israel were Zerubbabel, Ezra and Nehemiah. Zerubbabel was the leader of the first wave of exiles returning from captivity (about 537 BC). He is spoken to directly in two of the Lord s messages through Haggai. Ezra was a scribe (and teacher) who returned with a second wave of returning exiles in 458 BC). Nehemiah came to Jerusalem as a governor in about 444 BC with another wave of returning exiles. These three waves of returning exiles roughly correspond this way 1 st captives exiled in 605 BC and included the prophet Daniel and his three faithful companions. The 1 st return of exiles (roughly 70 years later) begins in 537/536 BC. There was a 2 nd wave of captives taken in 597 BC. The 3 rd wave of captivity took place in 586 BC when both the temple and the city of Jerusalem were destroyed. This is recorded by and during the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah. This corresponds to the completion of the temple in 516 BC, which was begun under Zerubbabel s leadership in 520 BC, and corresponds to Haggai s prophecies. The kings of Persia who had ruled over the Jews (a world empire) would be Cyrus ( BC), Cambyses ( BC), Darius I ( BC), Xerxes I or Ahasuerus ( BC), Artaxerxes I ( BC), Possibly Xerxes II (424 BC), and Darius II ( BC). [See the NIV Study Bible time-line chart within the book of Ezra] OT Biblical Prophecy Studying OT prophecy requires an understanding of some basic, yet important things. The Bible is full of prophecy. The word prophecy simply means to speak forth. The one giving the prophecy is speaking out or towards someone, that is, giving a message that is intended for those hearing it. Biblical prophecy is speaking forth God s counsel and mind, His will and purposes. Prophecies are found throughout the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Prophecy is usually thought of in a more specific way being related to future fulfillment of a prediction. The foretelling of some event, person or thing to come in the future. This type of prophecy actually occupies a small part of Old Testament (OT) prophecy. Less than 1% of prophetic writings concern events still to come in the future. Less than 2% of OT prophecy concerns the coming of the Messiah. Less than 5% of prophecy is focused on the New Covenant or Kingdom Age when Messiah reigns. [See How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth; by Fee & Stuart] Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 1

2 OT prophecy includes many events which were predicted to come, and most of these prophecies were addressed to Judah, Israel and other nations. These predictions usually involved the immediate future of these nations, and have come to pass already, that is, they have been fulfilled. There are two primary types of prophecy. They are didactic and predictive. Didactic is prophecy that is giving some teaching or instruction. This term is taken from a Greek word, didasko, which means to teach. This is where God is giving His people some moral, ethical or theological truth through the prophets. The role of OT prophets was being a spokesperson for God to His people. The primary focus of didactic prophecy is the Law, the Old Covenant (Old Testament and Old Covenant are equivalent terms). Didactic prophecy is spoken in the present tense about current situations or circumstances involving His people, the Jews. It is truth to live by then and now. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:17, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them (NIV). Instruction given in didactic prophecy is based on the commands given in the Law. It can be described as forthtelling, or speaking out towards others with a specific purpose. Didactic prophecy is to be interpreted in the same way as any other Scripture text. Predictive prophecy has to do with speaking of something before it takes place. This is prophecy which is for future fulfillment, truth that will be known in a later time. Often it is given as a promise of opportunity, or a blessing, or a warning of judgment to come. It can be described as fore-telling, speaking of things yet to come. Many prophecies have both didactic and predictive prophecy within the same segment of verses. Predictive prophecy is actually a small percentage of all prophetic writings in the OT. Much of what was predictive has been fulfilled already. These prophecies would include judgments upon the Northern and Southern Kingdoms (Israel and Judah respectively), and other nations like Egypt, Babylon, and Assyria, among others. Although these are already fulfilled, you would still need to see them as predictive. When they were given, they were predicting what was to come for Israel in that time. They are simply not future or unfulfilled for our present time. Time, History, Language and Style Time is an important element to watch for when interpreting biblical prophecy time sequence or chronology the timing within the text and messages. It is often difficult to know what time period the prophecy is speaking about. This can be very confusing! One prophecy may involve the past, present and even the future. Within a segment or section, the time period may change several times. There may be no indication of change in time within the wording of the verse or segment. Verb tenses in the text may be misleading. For example, in... Historical context is very important. This is the time within history when the prophecy was actually spoken. You need to know and understand the historical time of the prophet and his message. You need to know when the prophecy was actually spoken and to whom it was spoken. It is very helpful to know the history of the prophet, as well as the history directly before and after their ministry. You need to know the history of Israel and other nations that are spoken of in prophecy. 1 Kings through 2 Chronicles give the historical context for Isaiah through Zephaniah. Ezra through Nehemiah give the historical context for Haggai through Malachi. Ezra Chapters 1 though 6 are directly related to Malachi. It is always important to know the historical background for understanding any prophecy, both OT and NT. This can usually be found in good reference books, especially those providing time-lines. Language is also very important since the prophetic message is given in words. Special attention and handling is needed for understanding figurative language, or what may be called picture language. Make a point to define all important words, especially those that seem like key words, within the context of the prophecy itself. You can use a concordance to see how words are used in another context or biblical reference. Look for words or phrases expressing ideas differently than their usual meaning. Again, this is called figurative or picture language. Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 2

3 For example, in Haggai 1:6 it says, And he who earns wages, earns wages to put into a bag with holes. This is referring to a loss or minimizing of what ever income they receive. How can this be known? The context of the segment, verses 3-6, give this insight. There are several similar phrases expressing a similar thought. (This is also an example of Hebrew Parallelism a repetition of thought noted below). The Lord was telling Israel that their priorities were not right. They were neglecting the very reason they were brought back to their homeland. There are many other examples of figurative language found in Haggai, and once again, historical context is very helpful. Poetic styles and symbolic language are often used in biblical prophecy. You need to pay close attention to what kind of language is being used the actual words and how they are used. Different words and phrases may express similar ideas, so careful reading and observation is very important. Hebrew Parallelism is another element often used in prophecy. There are 3 common types of parallelism used synonymous, antithetic and synthetic. Parallelism is where a phrase or thought is repeated as a means of emphasis. Although it is repeated, it may be expressed in either similar, opposite, or progressive ways. Also, look for other patterns or forms of repetition of words and phrases. Many times a recurring theme or idea will be seen where the prophet uses words or phrases repeatedly, done for the sake of emphasis or reinforcement. As you study through Haggai, look for what prophecies, or oracles, are speaking to Israel s present situation. This would be didactic prophecy. Look also for messages that speak of something coming in the future, which would be predictive prophecy. Also, there may be times when both types of prophecy are found in one segment of verses. When you look at a segment of verses (refer to the outline given later), look for the primary focus of the message or oracle an oracle is a divine announcement or revelation a direct message from God. Look for who the message is spoken to and what it is speaking about. Each author (prophet) has a particular style of speaking (writing) or presenting their messages. Notice how Haggai uses rhetorical questions as a dialogue between God and His people. There are many uses of figurative language to be aware of, and many repeated words and phrases that need to be considered. It will be helpful to read the text of Haggai in whatever Bible version you normally use and another reliable version or paraphrase such as NIV, NLT, NASB, ESV. Avoid using Study Bible notes or commentaries until reading through the text yourself several times. Guidelines for Interpreting Prophecy First of all, assume the prophecy is literal, that what it actually says is what is intended by the author. Interpret it as with any other Scripture text as far as grammar, looking for the simple, direct meaning. However, see if there is any figurative language where figures of speech are used. This can often be seen when a literal interpretation would contradict other Scripture or sound judgment. Remember, figurative language is the use of non-literal or symbolic words, which are giving some type of picture to see. You need to understand things from the author s point of view, not your own. You need to understand the literal meaning of this figurative language, that is, what the author intended for it to mean. The context is very important! Note any references about time where there is any change in time, especially any dramatic changes in historical time periods, generations or centuries. There may be no clear or obvious expression of change from past to present or future tense. Observe verb tenses, but do not rely on them completely. Know the historical setting of the prophecy itself. You will need to be a student of Bible history and familiar with world history that is connected to Biblical history. You will need to do some reading of Israel s own history in the Bible, as well as look at simple, but good reference books. Above all, understand the original purpose of the prophecy for the original hearers, those to whom it was originally spoken. Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 3

4 Doing an Inductive Study of Haggai First of all, read the entire book of Haggai (it s short!). Read it through several times to get the overall flow of the book. Then read it more carefully, making notes of important things you observe (either in the margins of your Bible or, better, in a notebook). Look for repeated words and phrases and any figurative language. Go through the text of Haggai segment by segment, but keeping the whole book in view. Utilize the study questions that begin on the following page. These will help you observe what you re reading more carefully, and hopefully help you understand and see how to apply its truth. Also read Ezra Chapters 1 6. Keep in mind the situation these Jewish people were living in, which can be understood from these first six chapters of Ezra. They were formerly exiled, or their ancestors were, and they were returning to a homeland that was foreign to them. You can also read through the prophetic book of Zechariah. Remember to be aware of parallelism, repetitive thoughts that are reinforcing, contrasting or extending the idea or thought being repeated. This will help you see what is being emphasized as most important and critical to understand. Remember to try understanding figurative (picture) language within the context it is found, and from the view point of God and Haggai. Trust the Holy Spirit to reveal what He wants you to understand, and how He wants to speak into your life. He is the One who spoke to, or through, Haggai, and He wants to speak to you. This was God s personal message to His people then, but it is also His word to those who seek Him now. There are many relevant issues addressed in Haggai that are equally applicable nowadays. Even the underlying theme Consider Your Ways it s just as relevant today as it was then. SIMPLE OUTLINE OF HAGGAI Theme of Haggai Putting First things First Consider Your Ways Haggai contains 4 Messages (oracles) in 2 Chapters God s Word through Haggai, Build my Temple and I will Bless You, is given in 4 parts, or 4 messages, given at different times (although the third and fourth messages are given on the same day). The first and third messages correspond to each other, as do the second and fourth. A. 1:1-15 Rebuild! & the People s Response B. 2:1-9 Glory of the first and future Temple C. 2:10-19 Blessings of Obedience (present) D. 2:20-23 Promise of Blessings (future) Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 4

5 INDUCTIVE STUDY QUESTIONS FOR HAGGAI Chapter 1 For vss Who does God speak His word through to the people of Israel? a. When does this take place? Who is directly addressed and what is their significance? 2. What is the primary message given by the Lord to His people (the returned exiles)? a. In what way is it expressed or declared? 3. What does the Lord exhort the people to do in speaking about their present situation? a. What phrase is repeated that makes this point clear, and how is it used here? 4. What is the message of this second part of the word? a. What is the underlying lesson that can be learned so far? 5. What is the next exhortation seen in verse 8? a. How is this related to the first exhortation in verses 2 4? 6. How is the current situation of the returned exiles in Judah related to this further exhortation? a. How has this situation come about according to the Lord s word? Why did it happen? 7. What is the primary lesson that can be learned through this first message of the Lord in Haggai? a. How is this emphasized and made clear? 8. What practical application can you make from this lesson and message? a. How do you see this personally relevant and useful in your own life? For vss In verses 12-15, what is the response of the returned exiles to Haggai s message from the Lord? a. Who are the specific people named as those who are responding? 10. What is the status or condition of the people as described at the end of verse 12? a. What do you think this means? What does it mean to you personally? 11. What was the Lord s response to the people through Haggai? a. Why would this be especially important to them? (Refer to Ezra 1 6) 12. What takes place following this further word from the Lord? a. What does it say the Lord did with the people? What do you think this means? b. What was the result of this action of the Lord in the people? 13. Has the Lord ever spoken to you in any way? If so, how? How would you describe it to someone else? a. How did this effect you (your life) personally, or did it? b. Did it result in any actual change in or for your life? 14. What specific, spiritual lesson can be drawn from verses 12-15? a. What application can you make of this lesson personally? Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 5

6 INDUCTIVE STUDY QUESTIONS FOR HAGGAI Chapter 2 For vss When does the second Word of the Lord come through Haggai the prophet? a. Approximately how much time seems to have gone by since the first message was given? 2. Who is this message specifically addressed to? What is the primary purpose for this message? a. What question does the Lord ask the leaders of Israel? b. What do you think this question is intended to do? 3. What is the Lord s exhortation to those He speaks to in verses 4 and 5? a. How is this exhortation directly related to what is written (told) in Ezra Chapter 3? 4. In verses 6 9, does it seem there is a second part to this second message? a. What do you think this second part of the message is referring to? What helps you see this? 5. What or who do you think the Desire of all Nations is referring to? Why? a. What do you think is meant by the glory of this latter temple? Why? 6. How do verses 6 9 seem similar to what the Lord Jesus says about His returning to earth? a. When do you think this shaking will take place? 7. What specific encouragement or exhortation speaks to you personally? a. Why does this encourage or exhort you? 8. How do you see any or all of this second message being relevant to you and the church today? a. What specific application do you see that can be made from this? For vss When is this third message through Haggai given? a. How much time do you think has gone past since the second message? 10. Who is specifically spoken to in this message? How is the first part of this message communicated? 11. What is the main point of the first part of this third message? a. Do you see any similarity between this message (verses 10 14) and the first message by Haggai? 12. Do you understand what the Lord is saying to these priests? a. Why do you think the Lord is saying this to them? What is this based upon? 13. What is the rest of the message speaking about in verses 15 19? a. How is this part of the message similar to the first message (in Chap 1)? b. What is clearly different from the first message? 14. How is the promise given in this message directly related to the people s obedience to the first message? a. What specific and personally relevant lesson can you draw from these messages so far? 15. If the Lord has spoken to you about priorities in your life, what life application can you make from this? a. In what way(s) do you see how you can do this now or relatively soon? Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 6

7 INDUCTIVE STUDY QUESTIONS FOR HAGGAI For vss When is this final (of four) messages given? How is it different than the third one? a. How is it similar to any of the earlier messages in Haggai? b. What, specifically, is different or similar from the earlier messages? 17. Who is directly spoken to in this message? What are the things directly spoken to him? a. When does it say this will take place? 18. Is it possible that some of this prophetic message will take place later than Zerubbabel s time? a. If no, why not? If yes, what indicates this? 19. How do you see this message to Zerubbabel being relevant to this present time? a. In what sense is it as relevant to you or the church, as it was to Zerubbabel? 20. How does this final message speak to you personally, with either a specific or general insight of truth? a. How can you take this insight and apply it practically and usefully in your own life? Haggai Study Notes and Questions July 2010 (Trip Kimball) page 7