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Reading Zechariah
Reading Zechariah
This book is often labeled as the most difficult book of the OT (or of the whole Bible by some). Yet, the overall message is not difficult. Many of the same prophetic themes are here, but they are dressed in pictures and images. The people have returned to rebuild their land and have been given great hopes of how grand and great this would be. Reality sets in as they are oppressed by enemies, ruled and taxed by the Persian king, and even face natural difficulties like famine and drought.
Zechariah reminds them that God still rules, His appointed watchmen are at work. God has plans: He will yet punish those countries that have done evil.
Zechariah begins be giving the explanation that the people are themselves at least partly to blame as they have returned to the land but NOT to the LORD. IF they would return to the LORD, the LORD would return to them. Some of their problems are, as in the past, brought about by God’s discipline to try to teach and admonish them.
They came to build the temple but it has been over 15 years and only the foundation is there. This is partly due to outside opposition. However, we will also see that this is partly due to inside fighting. Bottom line is that it is also because the people have NOT built it; rather, they have chased after their own dreams and desires.
If they return to God with all their heart, God will return to them (1:1-6). God’s ‘horsemen’ are on duty (vision 1, 1:7-17), and God plans on punishing the oppressors and blessing the oppressed (vision 2, 1:18-21). Jerusalem then can be an unwalled city for there will be no need of such a protecting wall as God will subdue all enemies (vision 3, 2:1-13). The priesthood, which has been defiled, will be restored and their service again restored and blessed (vision 4, 3:1-10, and vision 5, 4:1-14). The wickedness of the people can be forgiven [the 6th vision – wickedness judged 5:1-4, and the 7th vision – wickedness removed 5:5-11). Vision eight shows that God’s army is already on the move (6:1- ). In this, God’s wrath against the oppressors will be appeased (6:8). His promises are true and faithful; BUT, so are His conditions and warnings! "… And it will take place if you completely obey the Lord your God” (Zech. 6:15).
Trusting God is to obey Him. Are you trusting God?
Hugh DeLong
