Haggai 1

1-15 Command to Build the Temple

1-4 In the 2nd year of Darius, 6th month, 1st day, Haggai comes to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, speaking for God: Though the people say it is not yet time to rebuild the temple, God says it’s not right for them to live in good houses while the house is in ruins.

5-6 That is why they don’t prosper; they work but don’t progress.

7-11 God has not allowed them to prosper, has even caused a drought because they have not tended to his house.

12-15 Zerubbabel, Joshua and a remnant of the people obey and begin work on the 24th day of the 6th month.

Note: Chronologically, this prophecy of Haggai can be inserted right after Ezra 5:1, which begins, “Now the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and Jerusalem….”