2:1–9 The Lord again spoke to the people, this time encouraging them to continue building. Reports about the magnificence of the now-destroyed temple of Solomon were apparently a source of discouragement (v. 3). The Lord first assured them of His continued presence with them—a promise for the present (vv. 4, 5). Second, He assured them about the future goal of their project (vv. 6–9). Though it appeared humble in comparison, the glory of this temple would finally far outstrip Solomon’s temple because it would be graced by the presence of the Messiah Himself (v. 9 note).