God Gives Peace

I. Introduction: The Peace We Long For

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, have you ever worked hard yet felt empty inside? This was the experience of Israel after the exile. They rebuilt the temple, but it seemed insignificant compared to the past. God revealed Himself not to shame them, but to restore them with His peace.

Epiphany reminds us that God reveals His glory so that His people may live in His peace.

II. Background of the Text

Haggai prophesied in 520 BC. The people had returned from Babylon, but discouragement and spiritual fatigue filled their lives. God spoke into this broken situation with a promise of peace rooted in His presence.

III. Sermon Outline

I. God Is Present in the Midst of Disappointment (Haggai 2:1b–5)

Transition: From past sorrow, God directs His people to His present presence.

• “Be strong” – the Hebrew chazaq means strengthened by God Himself. Peace is not produced by circumstances but by God’s presence.
• The unbroken covenant – God remains faithful even when people struggle.
• “My Spirit remains among you” – God’s Spirit is the source of peace.

Cross reference: Isaiah 41:10 – God strengthens and upholds His people.

II. God Shakes the World to Establish His Peace (Haggai 2:6–7)

Transition: From quiet presence to powerful divine action.

• God shakes heaven and earth to remove what is temporary.
• The coming glory points to the Messianic fulfillment in Christ.
• Shaking is not destruction, but purification that leads to peace.

Cross reference: Hebrews 12:26–28 – the unshakable kingdom.

III. God Promises a Greater and Lasting Peace (Haggai 2:8–10)

Transition: From shaking to the promise of greater glory.

• God owns all silver and gold—peace is His gift, not our achievement.
• The latter glory points to Christ, the Prince of Peace.
• Shalom means wholeness, restoration, and harmony in God.

Cross reference: John 14:27 – Christ’s peace, unlike the world’s.

IV. Conclusion: Living in God’s Peace

God does not only rebuild structures; He rebuilds hearts. Today, God invites us to receive His peace and to live as witnesses of His revealed glory.

Call to response: Lay down your fears, and receive the peace God freely gives.

Closing Poem:
The road may shake, the night be long,
Yet God’s peace makes spirits strong.
Where He dwells, our hearts find rest,
In His peace, we are truly blessed.