Encouragement to Build

Aim: To be encouraged to build the church for the glory of Christ, and the good of the world.

Doctrine: God's encouragement to build is always focused on the person of Christ, who is the centerpiece of history, and who makes all our aspirations worthwhile.

Exegesis: The three tenses of encouragement to build: past glory lost should not discourage us (vv. 1-3); future gospel prospects strengthen us (v. 4); present divine company comforts us (v. 5).

Further application: How to benefit from God's encouragement to build: first, believe His promises, in Christ; then, act on His provision, in Christ.

Key verse: v. 4 '''Yet now be strong, Zerubbabel,' says the LORD; 'and be strong, Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest; and be strong, all you people of the land,' says the LORD, 'and work; for I am with you,' says the LORD of hosts.''