TIMELINE to the Book of Haggai

I have created this timeline especially for our FRONT PORCH BIBLE STUDY. This timeline will be used to teach the book of Haggai.  We will be observing this timeline from past history, to the present and also our future.  The chart gives you an idea about God, Man, Satan, Heaven, Hell, Covenants of Israel, Dispensations and End Time Prophecy.  However, where does the book of Haggai fit in chronologically and/or historically?  Study the chart.  It will provide a bird’s eye view.  

Israel engaged in a cycle of sin.  She would serve God.  She would soon forget and sin against Him.  She would be taken captive and enslaved.  She would cry out in repentance.  Then, God would raise us a Judge, Prophet or King to deliver her.  She would be forgiven, restored and at peace as a nation.    Sadly, Israel would repeat this cycle.  Isn't it peculiar how history repeats itself and nations still do this?  

The book of Haggai takes place right in one of those moments.  Israel had been taken captive by the Babylonians.  King Darius (of the Persian Empire) granted permission for Israel to return to Jerusalem.  He even decreed and endorsed the rebuilding of the Temple. Yet, Israel delayed.  Here, we discover a nation who had been exiled, taken captive and held in bondage finally free...only to be walking in loose shackles.  Their hearts had become complacent and their convictions compromised.  Haggai was sent to inspire and encourage the rebuilding of the Second Temple.  He was simply pointing the nation to the coming Messiah.

How does this relate today? Are you like Israel?  Are you walking in loose shackles even though the Lord has freed you from bondage?  Are you caught up in the moment you are living?  Are you idle? Complacent? Convictions compromised?  Or, are you inspired and left encouraged?  Are you rebuilding?  Are you pointing people and nations to the coming Messiah?  Are you experiencing His GLORY?