The resumption of construction, particularly in the context of the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, is a significant event in biblical history. This event is primarily documented in the books of Ezra, Haggai, and Zechariah, which detail the challenges and divine interventions that led to the continuation and completion of the Second Temple.

Historical Context

After the Babylonian exile, a remnant of the Jewish people returned to Jerusalem under the decree of Cyrus, the king of Persia. Cyrus's edict, as recorded in Ezra 1:2-4, allowed the exiles to return and rebuild the house of the Lord in Jerusalem. The initial efforts to rebuild the Temple began with enthusiasm, as described in Ezra 3:10-11, where the foundation of the Temple was laid amid great rejoicing.

Opposition and Halt

However, the construction faced significant opposition from the surrounding peoples, including the Samaritans, who sought to frustrate the plans of the returning exiles. This opposition is detailed in Ezra 4:1-5, where adversaries discouraged the people and hired counselors against them to thwart their efforts. The opposition was successful in halting the construction, as the work ceased until the second year of the reign of Darius, king of Persia (Ezra 4:24).

Prophetic Encouragement

The resumption of construction was catalyzed by the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah. Haggai, in particular, delivered a series of messages urging the people to prioritize the rebuilding of the Temple over their personal affairs. In Haggai 1:4-8, the prophet challenges the people for dwelling in paneled houses while the house of the Lord lay in ruins, urging them to "consider your ways" and resume the work.

Zechariah also played a crucial role in encouraging the people, offering visions and messages of hope and divine support. Zechariah 4:6-9 emphasizes that the work would be accomplished "not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit," assuring Zerubbabel, the governor, that the hands that laid the foundation would also complete it.

Divine Intervention and Completion

The prophetic encouragement led to the resumption of construction in the second year of Darius's reign. Ezra 5:1-2 records that the prophets Haggai and Zechariah prophesied to the Jews, and Zerubbabel and Jeshua rose to begin building the house of God again. Despite renewed opposition, the work continued under the watchful eye of God and the support of the Persian authorities, as detailed in Ezra 6:14.

The Temple was finally completed in the sixth year of Darius's reign, as recorded in Ezra 6:15. The dedication of the Temple was marked by great celebration and the offering of sacrifices, as the people of Israel rejoiced in the restoration of their central place of worship.

Theological Significance

The resumption of construction and completion of the Second Temple hold deep theological significance. It represents God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His sovereign ability to fulfill His purposes despite human opposition. The prophetic encouragement and divine intervention underscore the importance of obedience and reliance on God's Spirit in accomplishing His work. The rebuilt Temple served as a symbol of God's presence among His people and a foreshadowing of the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, who referred to His body as the true Temple (John 2:19-21).