Welcome to the next Bible Study of the book of Zechariah, Chapter 6:

Verse 1: “And I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold, there came four chariots out from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass.”

The prophet Zechariah is experiencing a vision. The four chariots represent significant forces in GOD’S divine plan. The “two mountains” symbolize strength and stability, with “brass” indicating strength and perhaps judgment.

Verse 2: “In the first chariot were red horses; and in the second chariot black horses;”

The colors of the horses suggest different aspects of GOD’S judgment and the activities in the world. Red typically denotes war and bloodshed, while black can symbolize famine or judgment.

Verse 3: “And in the third chariot white horses; and in the fourth chariot grizzled and bay horses.”

The white horses often represent victory and conquest, while the grizzled and bay may symbolize strength or varied outcomes, suggesting different phases of GOD’S providential rule.

Verse 4: “Then I answered and said unto the angel that talked with me, What are these, my Lord?”

Here, Zechariah is seeking understanding from the angel, emphasizing the importance of divine revelation. This reflects our desire for clarity from GOD regarding His divine plans.

Verse 5: “And the angel answered and said unto me, These are the four spirits of the heavens, which go forth from standing before the LORD of all the earth.”

The “four spirits” represent divine agents or forces acting under GOD’S authority. They show GOD’S sovereignty and how He governs the earth.

Verse 6: “The black horses which are therein go forth into the north country; and the white go forth after them; and the grizzled go forth toward the south country.”

This indicates a geographical focus of GOD’S judgment. The north often is associated with impending judgment (often Babylon), while the south may represent other nations or territories.

Verse 7: “And the bay went forth, and sought to go that they might walk to and fro through the earth: and he said, Get you hence, walk to and fro through the earth. So they walked to and fro through the earth.”

This implies a survey of the earth. The angels are performing GOD’S missions, and this movement suggests a thorough investigation of conditions among the nations.

Verse 8: “Then cried he upon me, and spake unto me, saying, Behold, these that go toward the north country have quieted my spirit in the north country.”

GOD’S judgment brings a sense of resolution or peace. The “quieted my spirit” might imply that GOD’S just actions in dealing with nations fulfill His divine plans and bring about truth and justice.

Verse 9: “And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,”

This introduction marks a transition to GOD giving specific instructions or messages to Zechariah.

Verse 10: “Take of them of the captivity, even of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah, which are come from Babylon; and come thou the same day, and go into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah;”

GOD instructs Zechariah to take certain individuals from among the exiles. This indicates a restoration process, as GOD is focusing on returning His people.

Verse 11: “Then take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set them upon the head of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest;”

The act of crowning Joshua signifies a dual role for him as both a religious and a political leader. This foreshadows the coming of our mighty, glorious, fulfilling King, JESUS CHRIST.

Verse 12: “And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD:”

“The BRANCH” refers to the MESSIAH (often interpreted as JESUS CHRIST). This highlights the hope of restoration and the building of GOD’S temple, emphasizing the coming of our SAVIOUR and REDEEMER JESUS CHRIST in His role of restoration.

Verse 13: “Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.”

This verse emphasizes the unity of priestly and kingly roles in CHRIST. The “counsel of peace” suggests harmony between two offices that were historically separate, uniting them in the MESSIAH.

Verse 14: “And the crowns shall be to Helem, and to Tobijah, and to Jedaiah, and to Hen the son of Zephaniah, for a memorial in the temple of the LORD.”

Crowns for specific individuals symbolize their significant roles in GOD’S plan. It is a reminder of GOD’S faithfulness to His people and His truth fulfilling promises.

Verse 15: “And they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the LORD; and ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you. And this shall come to pass, if ye will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your GOD.”

This verse presents the promise of restoration not only for those present but also for those distant from Zion. It underscores the condition of obedience to GOD, essential for realizing the fulfillment of His wonderful promises.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, We come before You with gratitude for the insights we have gained from the book of Zechariah. Thank You for the assurance of Your sovereignty and for the hope found in the promise of the BRANCH, our SAVIOUR and REDEEMER JESUS CHRIST. Help us to understand and apply Your marvelous righteous Word as we seek to walk in obedience to You. May our lives reflect the peace and unity found in JESUS CHRIST, our King and High Priest. Guide us as we diligently follow Your voice and share the hope of restoration with others. Thank you 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!