In what ways can our church reflect the "greater glory" mentioned in Haggai 2:9? Setting the Stage: God’s Promise of Greater Glory “Haggai 2:9 — ‘The glory of this latter house will be greater than the former,’ says the LORD of Hosts. ‘And in this place I will provide peace,’ declares the LORD of Hosts.” • God promised a future temple whose splendor would surpass Solomon’s. • In Christ, that promise expands beyond a physical building to a living, Spirit-filled people (John 2:19-21; 1 Corinthians 3:16). Christ: The Fulfillment of the Greater Glory • John 1:14 — “The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us. We have seen His glory…” • Hebrews 3:3 — “Jesus has been counted worthy of greater glory than Moses…” • Our church reflects glory as we keep Jesus central: – Preach and teach the whole counsel of God. – Celebrate the Lord’s Supper and baptism regularly, spotlighting His redemptive work. – Elevate Christ above personalities, programs, and preferences. Becoming His Living Temple • 1 Peter 2:4-5 — “you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house…” • Ephesians 2:19-22 — “In Him the whole building… grows into a holy temple in the Lord.” Practical steps: – Encourage every believer to discover and use spiritual gifts. – Foster relationships that “fit together” diverse members into one dwelling for God’s Spirit. Worship That Radiates Glory • John 4:23-24 — “true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth.” • Psalm 96 calls all creation to declare His glory. Ways to reflect glory: – Scripture-saturated songs that exalt God’s character. – Congregational participation—voices, prayers, testimonies. – Awe and reverence balanced with joyful celebration. Holiness That Mirrors His Character • 1 Peter 1:15-16 — “Be holy, because I am holy.” • 2 Corinthians 7:1 — “cleanse ourselves… perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Action points: – Clear teaching on biblical ethics. – Accountability groups for transparent confession and encouragement. – Pursuit of purity in speech, media, relationships, and finances. Unity and Love That Display His Presence • John 13:34-35 — “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” • Ephesians 4:1-3 urges humility, patience, and the bond of peace. Practices: – Regular fellowship meals that cross generational and cultural lines. – Quick reconciliation when conflicts arise. – Visible care for the hurting within the body. Service and Sacrifice That Reveal His Heart • Mark 10:45 — “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • Romans 12:1 — “offer your bodies as living sacrifices.” Cultivating service: – Ministry teams meeting tangible needs (meals, repairs, childcare). – Annual service days that bless the community. – Celebrate unseen acts of kindness, not just platform roles. Generosity That Demonstrates His Provision • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 — “God loves a cheerful giver.” • Acts 4:32-35 models open-handed sharing. Expressions: – Teach stewardship as worship, not obligation. – Transparent budgeting that channels funds to missions and mercy. – Emergency benevolence fund for members and neighbors in crisis. Spirit-Empowered Life That Magnifies His Power • Acts 1:8 — “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” • Galatians 5:22-23 lists fruit that mark Spirit-filled people. Ways to cultivate: – Corporate prayer gatherings that seek fresh filling. – Testimonies of answered prayer and transformed lives. – Training to discern and biblically exercise spiritual gifts. Evangelism and Discipleship That Multiply His Glory • Matthew 28:18-20—Great Commission. • 2 Timothy 2:2—pass the gospel to faithful people. Rhythms: – Personal evangelism training with real-life practice. – Small-group discipleship that equips new believers to disciple others. – Global missions partnerships, sending members short- and long-term. Peace That Marks His Dwelling Place • Ephesians 2:14 — “He Himself is our peace.” • Colossians 3:15 — “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” Signals of peace: – Multi-ethnic fellowship that transcends social barriers. – Counseling ministries resolving marital and personal conflicts through biblical truth. – Worship gatherings characterized by quiet confidence, not anxiety. Confidence in God’s Provision • Philippians 4:19 — “My God will supply all your needs…” • Zechariah 4:6 — “‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of Hosts.” Encouragements: – Cast visionary plans on God’s faithfulness, not human resources. – Celebrate past provisions to fuel future faith. – Pray expectantly, work diligently, and rest in His promise: “The glory of this latter house will be greater than the former.” |
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