Zecharaiah 1 & 2

by Katrina

LINK: Zechariah 1-2

BACKGROUND
Zechariah joined Haggai in Jerusalem two months into Haggai's four-month ministry there. So, for at least two months, they were together there, urging the people to finish the temple. Zechariah had a series of eight night visions from God, recorded in the first six chapters.

Zechariah has more prophecies about the coming Messiah than any other prophet except Isaiah. So, although it begins with a call to repentance, there is a great deal of hope and consolation in this book.

First Vision - Horses and Riders (Zech 1:7-17)
These horsemen were God's angelic army that patrols the earth and carries out God's orders. God also brought comfort to the people saying He would return to Jerusalem with compassion and the temple will be built. He would also punish the nations who tried to annihilate Israel.

Second Vision - Four Horns and Four Craftsmen (Zech 1:18-21)
The horn represents the power of a ruler or a nation. In this case the four horns are the enemies that have tried to destroy the Jews. The craftsmen are nations that God will use to defeat these enemies of the Jews

Third Vision - The Surveyor (Zech 2)
In this vision, God assured the people that He had a plan for their future. He would protect them and destroy their enemies. One day the city would burst at its seams with people and livestock. Ultimately, Jesus Himself will dwell in the midst of the people, and everyone will know that God has sent Him.

REFLECTION/APPLICATION
These chapters remind us once again that God is sovereign over all the nations. He is paying attention to what they do, especially to how they treat Israel, and will judge them. Also, one day there will be a glorious restoration of Jerusalem and Israel. The Messiah will come to cleanse the Jews. Jesus will one day sit on the throne in Jerusalem and rule as the Prince of Peace. Imagine the day when Jesus reigns in glory and there is truly peace in Jerusalem!

PRAYER
Lord, you are sovereign over all nations, all rulers, all peoples on this earth. Nothing goes unnoticed from your eyes. Thank you for providing cleansing through Jesus. We long for the day when Jesus will return. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen.