Haggai 2:6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In Agg. 2:5-8, there is a message directed toward the Gentile church, pertaining to the arrival of our Savior. It is then proclaimed that He will upheave the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all nations, as stated: ‘I will shake the heavens and the earth, and the sea also, and besides all nations.’ It appears reasonable to interpret this as follows: When Israel, having worshiped idols and been raised in the customs of Egypt, was to be liberated by God, He intended to draw them into the truth. In this moment, it seems He would indeed shake everything, as evidenced by waters turning into blood, hail raining down from the sky, the sea parting with its waves standing firm like a wall, and the heavens providing manna (Ex. 6, Ex. 7, Ex. 14, Ex. 16).

Haggai prophesied with profound insight regarding Christ and the Church, stating: ‘Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Once more - and it shall be soon - I will shake heaven and earth, sea and dry land, and will shake all nations - and he that is desired by all nations shall come’ (Haggai 2:6-7). We observe that this prophecy has been partially realized and we anticipate its complete fulfillment at the end of time. Through the testimony of angels and celestial bodies at Christ’s incarnation, God stirred the heavens. The earth trembled through the miraculous virgin birth. The heavens and terrestrial realms were moved by Christ’s preaching, which extended to distant lands and the entire globe. Consequently, we have witnessed nations drawn to faith. The declaration, ‘He who is desired by all nations shall come,’ continues to evoke anticipation regarding His return. Surely, to be longed for by those who await Him, He must first be cherished by those who have faith.

Throughout history, there have been two significant transformations in human existence, known as the two covenants, and as Scripture aptly states, the tremors of the earth. One transition moved humanity from idolatry to the law, while the other transitioned from the law to the gospel. I also proclaim a third great transformation, the change from earthly matters to eternal realities: steadfast and unchangeable.

And now, the Lord declares, lend strength to Zerubbabel and to Jesus, the son of Josedech, O great high priest. Let all the inhabitants of the earth be empowered and act, for I am with you, says the Lord Almighty. My covenant, which I established with you when you left the land of Egypt, remains; my Spirit shall dwell among you. Cast aside all lethargy and fear; embrace the strength bestowed upon you, trusting that I am present among you in righteousness and that the grace of the Holy Spirit is at work for your benefit.

He who stirs the very elements with His coming, before whom both the heavens and the earth tremble. Thus, He declares through the prophet, "I will shake all nations, and the Desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts" (Haggai 2:7). All of humanity stands before His judgment; angels, archangels, thrones, principalities, and dominions attend Him as He delivers justice to the wicked and rewards the righteous. Consider, dear brothers and sisters, the dread that will fill our hearts when faced with such a Judge on that day when no remedy for punishment remains! What shame for those who, burdened by their guilt, must bear their disgrace in the presence of all angels and men! What terror it will be to witness the fury of Him whom the human mind struggles to fully grasp!