In what ways can we "fill this house with glory" in our community? Seeing the Original Promise “I will shake all the nations, and they will come with all their treasure, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of Hosts.” (Haggai 2:7) The LORD’s declaration to post-exilic Judah was literal—He would again make His dwelling radiant. That glory, ultimately revealed in Christ (John 1:14), now resides in and among His people (1 Corinthians 3:16). The mandate remains: welcome His presence and display His splendor where we gather and serve. Recognizing the House Today • The local congregation: every meeting place dedicated to Christ (Ephesians 2:21-22). • Individual believers: “living stones” being built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5). • The wider community touched by the gospel: cities become stages for His glory (Matthew 5:14-16). Ways We Can Fill the House with Glory in Our Community 1. Lift High the Name of Jesus • Christ-centered preaching that handles Scripture faithfully (2 Timothy 4:2). • Congregational worship that exalts His character and works—singing “with grace in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16). 2. Pursue Holy Living • Personal repentance and obedience, because “holiness befits Your house” (Psalm 93:5). • Corporate accountability that restores the wandering (Galatians 6:1-2). 3. Nurture Unbreakable Unity • Guard against gossip and division; embrace “one Spirit…one hope” (Ephesians 4:3-6). • Celebrate diverse gifts working together so “the parts of the body should have equal concern for each other” (1 Corinthians 12:25). 4. Overflow in Sacrificial Love • Meet practical needs—food, clothing, shelter—so neighbors glimpse Christ’s compassion (James 2:15-16). • Extend hospitality to strangers; invite them to belong before they believe (Hebrews 13:2). 5. Proclaim the Gospel Boldly • Personal witness: share how Jesus saved you (Acts 1:8). • Community outreach: Bible studies in homes, workplace prayer groups, public events centered on the cross (1 Corinthians 2:2). 6. Pray Without Ceasing • Regular corporate prayer meetings, echoing early-church devotion (Acts 2:42). • Neighborhood prayer-walks, claiming streets for the Kingdom (Jeremiah 29:7). 7. Steward Resources Generously • Joyful giving that funds gospel work and mercy ministries (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Talents and time invested so the church excels in every good work (Titus 3:14). 8. Cultivate a Culture of Discipleship • Older believers mentor the young (Titus 2:3-6). • Small groups where Scripture is applied and burdens are shared (Hebrews 10:24-25). 9. Demonstrate God’s Justice and Mercy • Stand for the unborn, the widow, the orphan, the oppressed (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Partner with local agencies to combat poverty and addiction, while pointing to the ultimate Deliverer (Isaiah 58:6-7). 10. Expect the Supernatural • Seek the Spirit’s empowerment for healing, deliverance, and boldness (Acts 4:29-31). • Celebrate testimonies that spotlight His ongoing works (Psalm 66:16). Living Stones on Display When hearts burn with holiness, mouths overflow with praise, hands extend in love, and voices herald the gospel, the promise of Haggai 2:7 is tasted anew. The Lord still delights to “fill this house with glory,” and a watching community cannot help but notice (2 Corinthians 4:6-7). |
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