Rebuilding the Temple

Building projects can be hazardous to church leaders! The danger doesn’t come from falling bricks or loose boards but from discouragement. About 20 percent of pastors who lead their church through a construction program leave within two years of its completion. There may be good reasons for this. New circumstances in the church may require a different kind of leader. But it is also possible that the pastor has just grown weary in well doing.

As God continued to answer the question posed by the delegation from Bethel, He painted a picture of a restored city and renewed zeal for the rebuilding of the temple. The book of Zechariah began with this invitation: “‘Return to me,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty” (Zech. 1:3). In today’s passage, the Lord assures that He will make good on this promise (v. 3). God not only set the conditions of return but also promised to change the hearts of His people so they would respond to His invitation.

One of the greatest challenges God’s people faced was the size of the task. The exiles were scattered and often marginalized. Resources were limited. Their surrounding neighbors were hostile. These problems looked very different to God. In verse 6 the Lord asks, “It may seem marvelous to the remnant of this people at that time, but will it seem marvelous to me?” The implied answer is “No!” The Hebrew word “marvelous” expresses the idea of something beyond one’s ability. What seemed beyond their capabilities was not beyond God’s. The same is true for us. God’s power is far greater than our problems. His plans for us exceed our greatest longings.

Pray with Us

Again, Moody Publishers marketing staff is the focus of our prayers. Thank God today for the service of Jeremy Slager, Zack Williamson, and Kathryn Eastham, as they bring information about Moody’s publishing ministry to the public.

BY Dr. John Koessler

John Koessler is Professor Emeritus of Applied Theology and Church Ministries at Moody Bible Institute. John authors the “Practical Theology” column for Today in the Word of which he is also a contributing writer and theological editor. An award-winning author, John’s newest title is When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray (Kirkdale). Prior to joining the Moody faculty, he served as a pastor of Valley Chapel in Green Valley, Illinois, for nine years. He and his wife, Jane, now enjoy living in a lakeside town in Michigan.