(Chapter 2:10-19).
The fourth message conveys a deeply important truth that we do well to lay to heart. It clearly shows that the root of all failure with the remnant of that day, as with the people of God in this day, can be traced to a low moral condition. In other words we are warned that outward activity in the service of the Lord will not prosper unless accompanied with a right moral condition.
Further we learn that this moral condition can only be maintained by separation from that which we know to be contrary to the Word. In that day the remnant could only rightly take up the work of the Lord as they kept apart from that which was unclean according to the law. Today, in the midst of the corruptions of Christendom the believer that calls upon the Name of the Lord is to withdraw from iniquity, and purge himself from every vessel to dishonor if he is to be "meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work."
(Vss. 11-13). The question that the Lord addresses to the priests brings into prominence two important truths that should govern the practice of those who desire to answer to His mind in a day of ruin. On the one hand, we learn that that which is holy cannot cleanse by association; on the other hand, that which is unclean can defile by association. It follows that the common notion that we can cleanse the world by association with it, or help the people of God by association with the corrupt systems in which they may be found, is a fallacy, and worse, for to act thus, is not only no help to others, but we ourselves become defiled—for that which is unclean defiles by association.
(Vss. 14-17). Alas! the remnant of Haggai had been acting on this false principle with the result that the work of their hands was, in the sight of the Lord, unclean. In consequence the Lord had dealt with them in governmental discipline and smitten them "with blasting and with mildew."
(Vss. 18-19). Nevertheless, we are permitted to see, that, however great the failure of God's people, if they repent and act in obedience to the word, they will be blessed. Thus, directly the remnant take up the work of the house, the Lord can say, "from this day I will bless you."
Has this solemn warning, and yet deep encouragement, no voice for the Lord's people today? On the one hand are we not warned that any departure in practice from the light that God has given us as to the principles of His house will bring upon us the discipline of God; while, on the other hand, if in obedience to the Word we act in the light of the truth we shall at once be blessed?