A Forever King is Coming!

O. T. #2268  " A Forever King is Coming!"

August 20, 2022

Introduction to Zechariah

Zechariah was a Jewish priest. He was one of the first returnees to Jerusalem after the 70 year Babylonian exile. He was born in that foreign land. He was a member of the Great synagogue, a council of 120 originated by Nehemiah and presided over by Ezra. Those ruling elders later became the Sanhedrin. 

The prophet identifies his name, which means "Jehovah remembers."  He was younger than Haggai, yet a contemporary. He prophesied during the reign of Xerxes as king and Esther as queen of Persia. His words were quoted more than any other in the Old Testament by the New Testament writers. So they were not forgotten nor unimportant.

Zechariah was given a prophecy in November, the month Haggai missed. (J. V. McGee) So He filled in as God's messenger with His message.

Background

It had been 16 years since the rebuilding of the Temple took place. (Ezra 6:15) Then Haggai encouraged them and it began again. It took around 4 years for its completion. As an outline, Zephariah called for repentance, then he had 8 night visions, followed by 4 messages, then 2 burdens. (John MacArthur)

Verse 1 identifies who the prophet is. Then he jumps in and gives a warning which was from God-He was displease with their fathers. (verse 2) Here, God is identified as Lord of Hosts, over 50 times. The phrase thus saith the Lord is used 62 times. Zechariah has more prophesies of the Messiah than any other minor prophet. thus he dwells more on the person and work of Christ than any of the prophetic writings. 

Theme and Purpose

His purpose was to encourage the builders of the second Temple. He announced prophesy to the Gentiles, and the blessings of the Millennial Age for Israel with the events leading up to it. (The time when Jesus Christ will serve and reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.) Then God will display His glory through the nation.

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary, The MacArthur Bible Commentary, J. Vernon McGee's "Zechariah"]

Our King is coming! Are you ready? Will you be one of His children who meet Christ in the air and be with Him forever and ever? If you have trusted Him as your Savior and asked forgiveness of your sins, you are.

Keep the faith, dear one. Let Jesus reign in your heart today as King.