“And those who are far off shall come and help to build the temple of the LORD. And you shall know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you. And this shall come to pass, if you will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” Zechariah 6:15
I continue my study of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah, Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book. For today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Zechariah 6:1-15, which the commentary outlines as the third of three divisions for the text 5:1-6:15 (5:1-4, 5-11, 6:1-15). The commentary describes the eighth vision from the Lord given to Zechariah and that this vision "indicates that God’s justice was brought to the wicked nations that have oppressed Israel. Following this last vision, God acts to give hope to His people." It discusses how God's judgement over those who oppressed His people, in this instance specifically Babylonia (to the north), is complete and satisfied (at rest - v8). The commentary then describes how the text offers renewed hope and encouragement for God's people to continue their efforts to rebuild the temple. God will work through Joshua and Joshua will lead God's people. The commentary shares how vv12-13 provide a messianic prophecy referred to as "the Branch" where:
- "He will build the temple of the Lord (v12)
- He will be clothed with majesty and glory (v13)
- He will sit and rule on his throne as a priest (v13)
- He will unite the role of priest and king, creating “peaceful counsel between the two of them” (v 13)"
The commentary concludes by sharing how the text offers both a reminder and emphasizes a promise from God in v15 how we will be blessed if we "diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God." We are referred to Deuteronomy 28:1 where this same promise is made.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who will never leave or forsake me and You offer mercies that are new every morning that never cease! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings and of my salvation. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa from her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
