The Temple Motif in the Book of Haggai: A Call for Theocentric Perspective and Priorities in the Post Modern and Technological World

Abstract

The temple of motif in the Book of Haggai offers timeless truths that remain relevant to every generation of its readers. Coming from their exile, the Jews initially did fairly well in rebuilding their city and their temple in Jerusalem. However, things turned from good to bad when the experience of perennial hardships, economic considerations, and self-centeredness affected the lives of the Jewish returnees. Not only did the Jews lost their interest in rebuilding the temple, but their theocentric perspective had been lost and was replaced by misdirected priorities. It was in this setting that Haggai delivered his message. 
 Similarly the contemporary period that is characterized by moral, political, and economic chaos seems to diminish Christian’s sense of the sovereignty and presence of God who is able to provide during difficult times. On the other side is the continuous resurgence of post modernism, secularism, human-centered ideology, and rapid advance in technology that leads the present generation to a paradigm shift from God-centered way of life to self-centeredness. Generations belonging to the “Millennials,” “Generation X,” and “Generation Z,” that dominate the present era appear to share some basic commonalities - they are digital natives, immersed in technology , internet enthusiasts, and rigorously preoccupied by personal achievements. These mindset appear to place religion at the backseat.
 The temple motif in the Book of Haggai assures every Christians that God does not leave His people during difficult time. However there is a call for decisive action to make God the center of their life and their priorities. Positive response to the message of Haggai has a far reaching repercussion - God’s blessings in the present life and the eschatological hope in the coming Kingdom of God.