Zerubbabel and Joshua, the governor and the high priest, the leaders of the people, were addressed directly in the first eleven verses of the chapter. And now they lead the way in the nation’s obedience. That was their responsibility. Zerubbabel was a descendant of David. It was the task of the royal son of David, and the Aaronic priesthood for that matter, to lead God’s people in covenantal obedience.1 This is now done by the governor and high priest, those called and anointed to office by the Lord to lead the nation well.
12 Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, with all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the LORD their God, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him. And the people feared the LORD.