Welcome to the next Bible Study of the book of Zechariah, Chapter 4:

Verse 1: “And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep.”

This verse introduces a new revelation. The angel is re-engaging Zechariah, indicating that what follows is of great importance. The imagery of waking from sleep suggests that Zechariah is being brought to a state of alertness to receive a significant vision.

Verse 2: “And said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof.”

Zechariah sees a golden candlestick with a bowl and seven lamps. The candlestick symbolizes GOD’S mighty presence and light among His people, while the seven lamps represent completeness, as they are often associated with the seven churches in Revelation. This imagery conveys the idea of divine illumination and guidance.

Verse 3: “And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof.”

The two olive trees represent two anointed ones or two leaders commonly interpreted as Joshua the high priest and Zerubbabel the governor. Olive trees symbolize abundance and peace, reflecting the sustenance provided by the Holy Spirit.

Verse 4: “So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these, my LORD?”

Zechariah shows curiosity and humility; he seeks clarification about the vision. This demonstrates a willingness to understand messages from GOD.

Verse 5: “Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my LORD.”

The angel’s response implies that these symbols should be recognizable. However, Zechariah admits his ignorance, showcasing his need for divine revelation. This highlights the importance of relying on GOD for understanding.

Verse 6: “Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.”

This foundational verse teaches that human efforts alone are insufficient; it is the Spirit of GOD that empowers and accomplishes His purposes. It encourages reliance on divine strength rather than human capability.

Verse 7: “Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.”

Zerubbabel is reassured that obstacles (the great mountain) will be overcome. The imagery signifies that GOD can level challenges, and Zerubbabel will succeed in rebuilding the temple, marking the restoration of true worship.

Verse 8: “Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,”

This indicates a continuation of the divine message, reinforcing the significance of what has been revealed.

Verse 9: “The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.”

This verse emphasizes GOD’S sovereignty in guiding Zerubbabel’s efforts. The completion of the temple is a sign of GOD’S faithfulness and divine commissioning.

Verse 10: “For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”

This emphasizes that even small beginnings matter, encouraging those who might underestimate GOD’S mighty, glorious work. GOD’S omniscience (the eyes of the LORD) assures His people that He is observing and actively involved in their situation.

Verse 11: “Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof?”

Zechariah continues to seek clarity about the significance of the olive trees. This persistence represents openness to understanding GOD’S divine plan.

Verse 12: “And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves?”

The olive branches symbolize the sources of the Spirit. The oil represents anointing and empowerment from GOD, underscoring the theme of divine assistance.

Verse 13: “And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my LORD.”

Again, Zechariah admits his lack of understanding. This back and forth shows the complexity of divine messages and the depths of GOD’S divine revelations.

Verse 14: “Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the LORD of the whole earth.”

The two anointed ones represent leadership in Israel; Joshua and Zerubbabe, highlighting their roles and the divine authority behind their actions. It emphasizes GOD’S ongoing mighty work and support for His people.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, We thank You for the words of Zechariah and the powerful truths they reveal. Help us to understand that it is by Your Spirit that we are empowered to accomplish Your mighty fulfilling work. May we have strong faith to face our obstacles, knowing that You are with us and that small beginnings hold great significance in Your divine plan. Illuminate our hearts and minds with Your wisdom as we strive to follow Your guidance. In times of uncertainty, may we always seek Your mighty presence and find strength in Your true fulfilling promises. Thank you for hearing our prayers, dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER. We pray this 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!