ZECHARIAH CHAPTER 1:7-17
Chapter Outline:
Verses 1-6 Call of the prophet
Verses 7-17 Horseman Among the Myrtles (Vision 1)
Verses 18-21 Four Craftsmen (Vision 2)
Focus: A little bit of context
The previous generations had been sinful and had suffered at the hand of YHWH because of their faithlessness. He sent them to Babylon in exile and now it was time to build a temple and rebuild their faith and their lives focused on Him.
Focus: How does this draw us to God?
This is not only a vision, but an angel is there giving weight and meaning to this for the prophet (and us). The angel of the Lord is there to help him sort and see and understand everything laid out for him. The heavenly visions crash against humanity and we need understanding. The angel of the lord is the mouthpiece direct messenger from YHWH. He is God’s mouth.
When God is upset, He is indeed upset! God is angry over sin. He does what is necessary to iron out the brokenness He sees among His people. He will bring about His will and plan among His people which may include suffering and exile. He in many ways says to them, “as a people, learn the lesson or you will be left behind.” He wants them to be different and not like their forefathers.
The message is “get out of sinfulness” because God is returning to Jerusalem. There is purpose even though there is uprooting going on. He will show mercy. Rebuilding will happen. God promises to heal and give power to Zion (a theological promise-laden name for Jerusalem).
Focus: The OT to the cross
The overflowing of prosperity and comfort in Zion is ultimately found in Christ. This is a devotional thought as nothing here directly relates to the cross. In Zechariah, some passages are clearly Messianic, but this is not one of those passages. This is still chapter 1 and is preparation. God is preparing the people for His way. He will come in and make changes. He invites them to participate in the building of His Kingdom.
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Dwelling In Scripture 