The Message of Haggai – Then and Now
Instructor: Ernst Wendland
Description:
**Hebrew recommended but not required**
Whoever preaches or teaches on the book of Haggai? By the end of this course, it is hoped that you will have some reasons to do so. To accomplish this, we will review some of the main poetic features of biblical Hebrew poetry with special reference to Haggai’s prophetic style and his closely related contextual setting. A group reading of the entire book in Hebrew will include a detailed exegetical analysis along with a comparative review of popular Bible translations. Our mutual aim is to better understand the prophet’s dramatic message in the original language with a view towards effectively communicating its meaning and relevance to a contemporary audience or readership. A course workbook has been prepared to guide our way through the text, and participants will be assigned specific verses to serve as discussion leaders. Special attention will be devoted to passages that are similar to those found elsewhere in the OT or NT as well as those of theological importance or which may have a significant practical application in today’s multifaceted pastoral ministry.