Although the nations are constantly in rebellion against the Lord, he has established his Son as King over the whole world.
Jesus told more parables to show that the kingdom of God is free to enter but demands everything.
Although the Kingdom of God started imperceptibly small, it will cover and fill the whole earth.
After noting how little the people had accomplished, in Haggai 2:1-9 God told them to be strong because of his presence with them.