Welcome to the next Bible Study of the book of Zechariah, Chapter 3:

Verse 1: “And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and satan standing at his right hand to resist him.”

This verse sets the scene for a heavenly vision. Joshua, the high priest, represents the people of Israel, and the presence of satan signifies opposition and accusation against GOD’S people. The imagery emphasizes the spiritual warfare that exists, where satan seeks to thwart GOD’S plans.

Verse 2: “And the LORD said unto satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?”

Here, the LORD almighty directly confronts satan, rebuking him. The phrase “plucked out of the fire” symbolizes GOD’S grace in saving Jerusalem (and by extension, His people) from destruction and judgment. It highlights GOD’S sovereignty in protecting His chosen ones.

Verse 3: “Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel.”

Joshua’s filthy garments symbolize the sin and unworthiness of the people of Israel. This imagery reflects their need for cleansing and redemption. It emphasizes the state of their sinfulness in contrast to GOD’S holiness.

Verse 4: “And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.”

The angel of the LORD commands that Joshua’s filthy garments be removed, signifying the forgiveness of sins. The act of dressing him in new clothes represents GOD’S grace and the gift of righteousness. It speaks of restoration and a new identity.

Verse 5: “And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the LORD stood by.”

The command to place a fair mitre (or crown) on Joshua symbolizes authority and dignity. It represents the role of the high priest and the new covenant GOD establishes with His people. The angel’s presence reinforces the divine affirmation of Joshua’s new state.

Verse 6: “And the angel of the LORD protested unto Joshua, saying,”

This signals a declaration or a serious message from the angel of the LORD. The focus is on what follows, which sets the stage for Joshua’s responsibilities and the blessings from GOD.

Verse 7: “Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.”

GOD outlines conditional promises and responsibilities. To receive GOD’S blessings, Joshua (and Israel) must remain faithful and obedient. The promise of authority and favor indicates a restoration of position and duty before GOD.

Verse 8: “Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the Branch.”

This verse introduces “the Branch,” a Messianic reference to JESUS CHRIST. Joshua and his companions represent a remnant of faithful servants, and GOD promises reconstruction and future hope through the coming Messiah. It emphasizes GOD’S long term plan of redemption.

Verse 9: “For behold the stone that I have laid before Joshua; upon one stone shall be seven eyes: behold, I will engrave the graving thereof, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day.”

The stone with seven eyes symbolizes omniscience and GOD’S complete awareness. The engraving can indicate a permanent record or a unique covenant. “Removing the iniquity in one day” hints at the sudden and complete forgiveness that GOD will provide in the future.

Verse 10: “In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall ye call every man his neighbor under the vine and under the fig tree.”

This final verse points to a time of peace and security, symbolized by the vine and fig tree, which represent prosperity and rest. It signifies a future where GOD’S people will enjoy intimate fellowship and security, reflecting the restored relationship between GOD and His people.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD, Almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, We come before You with humble hearts, grateful for the reminder of Your mercy, grace, and the assurance that through JESUS, our sins are forgiven. We are reminded of our need for Your cleansing touch, just as Joshua needed his filthy garments removed. Thank You for calling us Your own and for preparing a place for us, allowing us to walk in Your ways and to serve in Your courts. Help us to remain faithful to Your calling and to fulfill the responsibilities You have set before us. May we always strive to live in a way that honors You, walking in righteousness and truth. We also pray for a spirit of unity among our neighbors and this world, that we may enjoy the peace and security You promise us. Thank you dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER. We pray all these things throughout the mighty, glorious, fulfilling name of JESUS CHRIST. Amen!

Much LoVe, JoY, Peace and Blessings to You, through JESUS CHRIST, our LORD, SAVIOUR and REDEEMER!