God doesn't give up. In the face of the rebuilt temple - those who remembered the splendor of what was before, wept. It didn't compare. They were undone. But where the people saw decline and despair - God was at work. Haggai 2:9. It's pointing to Jesus.

On This Very Spot

Temple 2.0

Ezra 3, Haggai, Zechariah

I've made a mess of things.

The Point of the Message:

Even when you've made a mess of things - God is not done!

#1) God Works in the Mess and Distress

v3, "Even though the people were afraid of the local residents, they rebuild the altar..."

"Change only happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change."

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

My Confession: I've made a mess of things.

#2) God Works to Restore and Renew

Ezra 3:1-3, they rebuild the altar. Ezra 3:4, they begin to build the temple.

Haggai 1:8, "Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the Lord."

Make no mistake about it, there will be Tears and Joy (see Ezra 3:12-13)

Isaiah 43:18-19, "...For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?..."

My Confession: I can't. God can. I think I'll let Him.

#3) God Works HIs plan to Bring you into His Glory

Haggai 2:9, "The future glory of this Temple will be greater than its past glory..."

2 Corinthians 3:18, (ESV) "...from one degree of glory to another..."

My Response: Come to Jesus.

"Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin..." Zechariah 4:10