Zechariah (Zech)

Book 38 of the OT, having 14 chapters. Zechariah was the author of this minor, prophetic book containing many visions. It was written to the Jews in Jerusalem with the purpose of giving hope to those who had returned from the captivity in Babylon, by revealing future deliverance through the Messiah. The first 8 chapters were written about 520 BC (when Haggai was also a prophet), the remaining 6 about 480 BC. Time to read: 35 mins.

Key people: Zechariah, Zerubbabel (the governor of Judah).

Outline. In the first section, he confronts and encourages the Jews who had returned from Babylon to rebuild the temple. His message went beyond the physical temple walls, pointing out a right relationship with God is based on obedience from the heart, not legalistic observance of the law. The rebuilding was a first step in God’s restoration program – for those who were “the apple of His eye” (Zech 2:8). In the second section he focuses on the Messiah who God would send to rescue His people and who is yet to reign supreme over the earth – numerous prophesies speak about Jesus and when the nations gather together to battle against Jerusalem the Israelites will be victorious and recognize “Him who they have pierced” (Zech 12:10). All nations will ultimately come to Jerusalem to worship the Lord of Hosts.

Main lesson. Rebuilding the temple was only the first stage of what God had in mind to do. However, this had to be done before the next stage could be commenced. Be careful to fully obey His voice so there can be an ongoing and unfailing working out of His purposes for our lives. God limits Himself to our response and co-operation – we determine our level of intimacy with Him and effectiveness in His Kingdom.

Key verses and thoughts. * “Not by might, nor by power [human effort], but by my Spirit, says the Lord” (Zech 4:6). The returned exiles were few in number, discouraged and poor. We, too, are not to dwell on our lack rather than looking to His resources, realizing what He Has called us to do can only effectively be accomplished by His grace and Spirit working in and through us. We are not exempt from doing our part as God works through human vessels. However, we are not to operate independently, or in our own ability, for it is only by the Spirit that a divine work is effected (Mk 16:20).

* “This will happen if you diligently obey the Lord your God” (Zech 6:15). Another promise made by God to the Israelites who, by their actions, determined if it would be fulfilled or not. Half-hearted or divided commitment would result in causal or inconsistent obedience and this would not bring the blessing. Spasmodic or occasional obedience and devotion can’t produce consistent blessing or the close relationship with God that He longs to have with us.

* "The Lord will be King over all the earth" (Zech 14:9). All opposition will be overcome and His rule will be supreme and eternal (Rev 11:15). Currently He is not enforcing His authority in the affairs of man but giving us the opportunity to choose to follow Him in love and obedience, to be committed to His purposes. Am I actively assisting in helping to bring about His eternal Kingdom?