S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Author: Zechariah 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Zechariah as the Prophet Zechariah.Date of Writing: The Book of Zechariah was likely written in two primary segments, between 520 and 470 ...

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November 15 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

John Appelt

The book of Zechariah is one of the prophetic writings given when the Babylonian captivity had ended, and people of Israel had returned to the land. Zechariah who was of the priestly line, had for his mission to encourage the people with the word from the Lord. His messages were at the same time as Haggai who also called for the resumption of the building of the temple which had been halted, Ezra 5:1, 6:14, Zechariah 8:9.

Zechariah’s name means “Yahweh (the LORD) remembers.” The root word, “zakar” also means “to think on,” “be mindful,” “burn incense,” “bring to remembrance,” “to record,” or “make a memorial.” This word is used in Zechariah 10:9, 13:2.

Zechariah’s message contains many references to God remembering His covenant, His city, and His people, Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:5, 2:10-13, 8:3-6, 8:11-13, 9:16-17, 13:1, 14:16. Many times the book has “the LORD declares” or “the LORD says,” as speaking for His people. God reveals much of Himself, the Messiah and His plan for the future, “in that day,” which speaks of when the Lord comes in judgment and power. Frequently, He is called “the LORD of hosts,” as the ruler over all the armies. 

Also, God, through Zechariah, called on the people to remember Him and return to Him, Zechariah 1:2-4. To help stir their minds, Zechariah was given a series of eight visions, Zechariah 1:1-6:15, some of which he saw “raising his eyes,” Zechariah 1:18, 2:1, 5:1-9, 6:1.
1. A man and horses among myrtle trees, Zechariah 1:7-17, peoples reviewed.
2. Four horns, Zechariah 1:18-21, powers removed.
3. Measuring line, Zechariah 2, place revived.
4. Cleansing of Joshua, the High Priest, Zechariah 3, priesthood restored. 
5. Golden candlestick and two olive trees, Zechariah 4, power rendered.
6. Flying scroll, Zechariah 5:1-4, perversion revealed.
7. Woman in the basket, Zechariah 5:5-11, perverseness removed.
8. Four chariots, Zechariah 6:1-15, punishment rendered. In this section, the Messiah is mentioned as the Branch, Zechariah 6:12-13. 

Zechariah was also given messages about fasting in light of the future of Jerusalem, Zechariah 7:1-8:23. 

Furthermore, Zechariah was given two burdens or oracles, Zechariah 9:1-14:21. 
The first burden predicted the judgment of the nations, and the coming of the suffering Messiah, Zechariah 9-11.
The second burden predicted Israel’s final victory and salvation through the victorious conquering Messiah, Zechariah 12-14. Chapter 14 is a vivid description of the devastation that happens at the Lord’s second coming. 

Zechariah’s words are echoed in the New Testament: 
Zechariah 9:9 compared to Matthew 21:5, John 12:15, about Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
Zechariah 11:13 compared to Matthew 27:9, concerning Judas casting down pieces of silver.
Zechariah 12:10 compared to John 19:37, Revelation 1:7, about people looking on Christ who they had pierced. 
Zechariah 13:7 compared to Matthew 26:31, Mark 14:27, concerning the disciples forsaking Christ the night He was betrayed, Mark 14:50.

Zechariah vividly demonstrated how the Lord has not forgotten His people but remembers them. The glories of the future will include the Messiah King and the temple.

July 16 2023 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report