From Humility to Glory

The King Is Coming

A Call to Prepare

The Messiah in Zechariah

Rejoice, Your King Comes to You

The Reign of Christ - Past, Present, and Future

Zechariah’s Vision - The Servant and the Sovereign King

Introduction

The book of Zechariah is a masterpiece of prophetic vision, offering profound insights into the coming of the Messiah. It reveals a Savior who comes both as a suffering servant and as a triumphant King. Zechariah’s prophecy declares the Messiah’s dual mission: to rescue His people from sin and to reign as King, establishing a Kingdom of peace, justice, and righteousness. This dual reality—Christ’s first coming in humility and His second coming in glory—calls us to respond with faith, repentance, and readiness.

The Messiah’s Mission: Humble and Victorious

“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

— Zechariah 9:9

Zechariah 9:9 beautifully captures the dual nature of the Messiah’s mission, combining humility with victory. Matthew Henry observes, “This prophecy, so exactly fulfilled, reminds us of Christ’s perfect humility and divine authority. He is both meek and mighty, a King who serves yet reigns.” The choice of a donkey instead of a warhorse disrupts conventional notions of power and kingship. In ancient times, rulers entering cities on horses signified conquest, while riding a donkey symbolized peace and servanthood. By riding a colt, Jesus demonstrated that His Kingdom was unlike any earthly kingdom, rooted in love and humility.

Charles Spurgeon calls this prophecy “the keynote of gospel joy,” pointing to Christ’s intentional humility as a profound expression of His peaceable reign and His approachability. His righteousness confirms His worthiness to rule, while His meekness endears Him to our hearts.

Eugene Peterson reflects, “God’s way of ruling defies the world’s expectations of power and domination.” In this single act, Christ redefined the meaning of true power—not through force but through self-sacrificial love. His triumphal entry invites us to rethink authority, leadership, and victory in light of the cross.

This King, righteous yet lowly, mighty yet gentle, beckons us to rejoice in the hope He brings. His entry into Jerusalem is not just a historical moment but a living call to place our trust in a Savior who reigns with grace and truth. As we celebrate His peaceable rule, let us embrace the joy of being part of His eternal Kingdom.

The Messiah’s Suffering and Victory

“They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child.”

— Zechariah 12:10

Zechariah 12:10 is a profound prophecy pointing directly to Christ’s crucifixion, where He bore the sins of humanity. The phrase “pierced One” reminds us of the deep cost of our salvation—a sacrifice that reconciles us to God. N.T. Wright reflects, “Zechariah’s vision of the pierced One shows the paradox of the Messiah—His suffering brings salvation; His death brings victory.” At the cross, justice and mercy meet as Christ willingly takes upon Himself the punishment we deserved.

Alexander Maclaren emphasizes the transformative power of mourning over the pierced Savior: “Our mourning over the pierced One leads us to repentance, which opens the door to His Kingdom.” This godly sorrow is not despair but a grief that compels us to turn from sin and embrace the grace of Christ.

The victory of the cross lies in the truth that through His wounds, we are healed (Isaiah 53:5). His suffering was not an end but the means through which the Kingdom of God was inaugurated. As Henri Nouwen writes, “The pierced heart of Jesus is the clearest expression of divine love.”

This prophecy invites us to respond in two ways: with repentance, as we recognize our role in His suffering, and with hope, as we rejoice in the victory His death accomplished. Christ’s pierced body speaks of both the weight of sin and the glory of redemption, leading us to worship a Savior who triumphs through sacrifice.

The King’s Return: Triumphant and Just

“The LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD, and his name the only name.”

— Zechariah 14:9

Zechariah 14:9 captures the glorious promise of Christ’s ultimate reign, where His Kingdom will extend over the entire earth, unifying all under His sovereign authority. This prophecy reminds us that history is moving toward a climactic fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. John Calvin observed, “God’s rule is not partial but universal. The vision of one Lord over all reminds us of the unity and peace His Kingdom will bring.” Christ’s return will establish a Kingdom of righteousness, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess Him as Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

Walter Brueggemann calls this a vision of a “new world order” under God’s perfect justice, where oppression, division, and sin will no longer reign. Derek Kidner highlights the cosmic scale of this transformation: “Christ’s reign will restore harmony not just among nations but throughout creation itself.” This is a Kingdom where peace flows like a river and the glory of the Lord covers the earth as the waters cover the sea (Isaiah 11:9, Habakkuk 2:14).

The triumphant return of the King is also a day of reckoning. It signals the end of rebellion and the establishment of God’s authority in fullness. As Martin Lloyd-Jones writes, “Christ will return not to deal with sin again but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.”

This prophecy calls us to live in readiness and hope. As Rick Warren reflects, “When we live with the end in view, it changes how we live in the present.” Christ’s victorious return invites us to align our lives with His purposes, eagerly anticipating the day when His name will be the only name, and His reign will bring everlasting peace and justice.

The Importance of Submission to the King

Zechariah’s prophetic vision compels us to submit to the Messiah’s leadership now, preparing our hearts for His return as the victorious King. Submission is not merely an act of obedience but a recognition of Christ’s rightful authority over all creation. John Wesley exhorts us, “Let us yield our hearts to Christ as King today, so we may rejoice in His reign tomorrow.” To submit now is to embrace the joy, peace, and purpose of living under His rule.

C.S. Lewis captures the urgency of this call in Mere Christianity: “When the author walks onto the stage, the play is over.” His imagery reminds us that the return of Christ will mark the end of this age and the beginning of His eternal Kingdom. There will be no opportunity for repentance after that moment; thus, the time to turn to Him is now.

Timothy Keller highlights the transformative power of submission: “The gospel teaches us that we do not earn our way into Christ’s Kingdom; we are brought in by His grace. But this grace transforms us into loyal citizens who long for His return.” Submission to Christ begins with accepting His grace—a surrender that leads to transformation.

Zechariah’s message is clear: submitting to Christ is not just preparation for His return, but a daily surrender that aligns us with His Kingdom here and now. As Dallas Willard reflects, “To live in the Kingdom of God is to live in willing obedience to the King.” True submission brings freedom and joy as we learn to trust His wisdom and love. By yielding to Christ, we experience a foretaste of His coming Kingdom and the hope of eternal life under His perfect reign.

The King Will Establish Peace

“He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.”

— Zechariah 9:10

Zechariah 9:10 portrays the Messiah as the ultimate peacemaker, whose Kingdom will bring harmony and restoration to all creation. His proclamation of peace extends beyond mere political agreements or the cessation of war. Instead, it ushers in a comprehensive shalom—spiritual, relational, and cosmic harmony. Henri Nouwen captures this truth: “Peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God.” Under the Messiah’s reign, God’s presence will fill the earth, replacing chaos and division with His divine order.

Richard Foster emphasizes that this peace begins now in the hearts of believers: “As we live under the reign of Christ now, we become peacemakers, bearing witness to the future reality of His Kingdom.” Christ’s followers are called to reflect His peace in a broken world, serving as ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).

This peace extends across all nations and creation itself. Derek Kidner observes, “The Messiah’s reign will bring harmony not only to humanity but to the natural order, fulfilling God’s original design for the world.” Isaiah 11:6-9 describes this reality vividly, where even natural enemies coexist peacefully under Christ’s rule.

Ultimately, the King’s peace is rooted in the cross. Through His sacrifice, Jesus reconciled humanity to God, breaking the power of sin and enabling true peace (Colossians 1:20). As Dallas Willard reminds us, “Living in God’s peace requires surrendering to His will and embracing the Kingdom’s priorities.”

Zechariah’s vision calls us to anticipate the day when Christ’s peace will cover the earth, uniting nations, healing wounds, and restoring all things under His loving rule. Until then, we live as witnesses to this peace, embodying the hope of the Kingdom to come.

Lessons Learned and Daily Application

1. Live under Christ’s reign today: Dallas Willard reminds us that the Kingdom of God is not just a future reality but a present calling. We are to submit to Christ’s authority in our daily decisions, letting His teachings shape our attitudes, actions, and relationships. This means pursuing holiness, forgiving others, and loving sacrificially as Jesus did.

2. Prepare for the King’s return: Zechariah urges us to live in anticipation of Christ’s second coming. This involves not only waiting but actively preparing by aligning our lives with His will. We are called to live with integrity, sharing the gospel, and being a light in a world that desperately needs hope.

3. Align your life with God’s eternal purpose: Rick Warren reminds us that history is moving toward the return of Jesus. Our lives find meaning and purpose when we prioritize God’s Kingdom over earthly ambitions. By dedicating ourselves to His mission, we become part of the grand story of redemption.

These lessons challenge us to live intentionally, with a focus on the eternal. Each day is an opportunity to reflect Christ’s reign in our lives, pointing others toward the hope of His coming Kingdom.

A Prayer for Readiness

Lord Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords,

We rejoice in the promise of Your return. Thank You for coming first as a humble servant to save us from sin. Help us to submit to Your reign in our hearts today and to live as faithful citizens of Your Kingdom. Strengthen us to proclaim Your gospel, pursue Your peace, and long for Your glorious appearing. Come quickly, Lord Jesus, and establish Your eternal Kingdom. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Rebuilding the Temple

Empowered by the Spirit

God’s Call, Spirit, and Purpose

Not by Might, Nor by Power

Zechariah’s Vision and Our Mission

Zechariah’s Encouragement for Discouraged Builders

 

The Book of Zechariah unfolds during a time of profound discouragement. The Jews had returned from Babylonian exile, but their hope of a restored Temple—a symbol of God’s presence — remained unfulfilled. They faced opposition, exhaustion, and fear. Yet, through Zechariah, God spoke hope and encouragement, calling His people to rebuild the Temple. This wasn’t just about bricks and mortar; it was a significant moment in God’s redemptive plan.

Zechariah’s message is not only for ancient Israel it speaks to all believers. Like the Israelites, we are called to build God’s kingdom in a world full of challenges. To fulfill this calling, we must rely on the Spirit of God. As Zechariah 4:6 proclaims:

“Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”

Zechariah’s Call to Rebuild

Alexander Maclaren beautifully observed, “Every stone laid on the Temple was a prophecy. Every blow of the hammer on the unfinished building rang with the promise of a better covenant.” This reconstruction signified far more than the physical rebuilding of a structure—it was a profound act of spiritual renewal, reminding the people that God’s purposes surpass human understanding.

Zechariah’s call to rebuild wasn’t merely about restoring a physical temple; it was a summons to rekindle faith, renew obedience, and restore hope. The Temple, as a symbol of God’s presence, declared that God had not forsaken His people, even after the exile. Undertaking this work was an act of trust, requiring perseverance amidst opposition and discouragement. Yet Zechariah’s visions reassured the people that the task was ultimately God’s mission, carried out through their obedience.

Rebuilding God’s work has never been easy, but it is always sustained by His power. Matthew Henry noted, “God’s work shall go forward, and His interests be preserved, in spite of all opposition, and the unbelief of those who should be forwarding it.” The rebuilding of the Temple was a pivotal step in God’s unfolding plan, pointing ahead to Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

As David Guzik explains, “God’s plans are bigger than our setbacks, and His purposes extend beyond what we see.” Each stone placed in the Temple bore witness to God’s faithfulness and His promise to dwell among His people. Ultimately, the Temple’s rebuilding foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who would fulfill the law and establish a new covenant. Today, this call reminds us that even our smallest acts of obedience are part of God’s grand, eternal plan.

The Spirit’s Empowerment

The rebuilding of the Temple was entirely dependent on the power of God’s Spirit. Zechariah 4:6 captures this truth: “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,” shifting the focus from human capability to divine strength. This verse underscores that God’s work is accomplished not through human ingenuity or resources, but through His Spirit. As Eugene Peterson insightfully noted, “Zechariah redirects the weary builders’ vision from their own weakness to the infinite power of God’s Spirit.” That same power, available to all who trust in Him, remains just as relevant today.

Charles Spurgeon observed, “The Spirit of God can work mightily where all human effort fails. If we are to see the glory of God in our time, it must be by the Spirit of the Lord.” It is precisely in moments of limitation and weakness that God’s Spirit displays His power most clearly. The Israelites, faced with opposition and discouragement, found strength and perseverance in the Spirit, just as we must rely on Him in advancing God’s kingdom.

Derek Prince explained that the Spirit does more than empower; He brings clarity, guidance, and alignment with God’s purposes. Whether we are proclaiming the gospel, leading a ministry, or walking faithfully in daily life, it is the Holy Spirit who equips, sustains, and strengthens us for the task. Without Him, we would falter in the face of challenges or lose sight of God’s mission.

The Spirit’s empowerment remains as vital for us as it was for the Israelites. God’s work cannot be accomplished by human effort alone, but through the Spirit’s unceasing presence and power, we are equipped to persevere and bring glory to His name.

God Protects His Builders

Zechariah’s message to the Israelites emphasized not only God’s call to rebuild but also His promise of protection for those engaged in His work. In Zechariah 2:5, the Lord proclaims, “I will be to her a wall of fire all around…and I will be the glory in her midst.” This vivid imagery reassured the people that God’s presence would guard them from harm and that He would dwell among them, bringing divine protection and peace. This promise gave them the courage to persevere despite external opposition and internal doubts.

N.T. Wright insightfully observes, “God’s protection is not a distant shield but an active presence that surrounds and sustains His people.” This assurance reminded the Israelites—and reminds us—that God’s care is personal and dynamic. His presence is both our defense against external threats and the source of inward strength.

John Calvin reinforced this truth by highlighting God’s sovereignty: “God holds the reins of the whole world in His hands, and He overrules all opposition to the building of His kingdom.” God’s ultimate authority guarantees the success of His purposes, no matter the challenges faced by His people.

This divine assurance is a powerful encouragement for us today. Whether we are confronting personal trials or opposition in advancing God’s kingdom, we can trust in His unshakable protection. He not only guards His work but ensures that His glory will shine through it.

Building for the Future

The rebuilding of the Temple was about far more than restoring a physical structure—it was a pivotal step in God’s unfolding plan of redemption, culminating in the coming of Christ. Every stone placed symbolized a larger story of salvation, as Derek Prince observed: “Zechariah’s visions are glimpses into God’s grand design, showing that even our seemingly small acts of obedience are part of an eternal story.” The Israelites’ labor was not merely for their generation; it pointed forward to the ultimate Temple, Jesus Christ, through whom God’s presence would dwell with humanity.

Patrick Miller expands on this, emphasizing, “To rebuild is to participate in God’s unfolding drama, where our faithfulness today paves the way for His glory tomorrow.” Their obedience to God’s call served as an act of faith that reverberated through history, paving the way for God’s greater work. This is true for us as well—our faithful efforts in service to God may seem small, but they carry eternal significance.

Rick Warren reminds us, “What we build for God will outlast us if it is done in obedience and reliance on Him.” When we labor for God, guided by His Spirit, we become part of a work that transcends time. Just as the Israelites’ rebuilding effort prepared the way for Christ, our faithful service today lays the foundation for God’s kingdom work in the future.

A Call to Us Today

Zechariah’s message is timeless, reminding believers that God’s call to rebuild is not confined to the past but continues in our lives today. The work of rebuilding is as much spiritual as it is physical. Henri Nouwen insightfully wrote, “Spiritual building begins with surrender. It is the Spirit of God who forms the house of God within us and through us.” This surrender involves yielding our plans, ambitions, and fears to God, trusting Him to work through us as we labor for His kingdom.

Dallas Willard further expands this idea, stating, “The true Temple is not found in a place but in a people—a people who are yielded to the Spirit and devoted to the mission of God.” As believers, we are now the living stones of God’s spiritual temple (1 Peter 2:5), called to reflect His presence in our lives and communities.

This call requires faithfulness, humility, and a commitment to God’s purposes. Each act of service, however small, becomes part of the greater story of God’s redemption. Just as the Israelites rebuilt the physical Temple in obedience, we are called to build God’s kingdom by proclaiming the gospel, making disciples, and living as His faithful witnesses. Through surrender and reliance on the Holy Spirit, we become active participants in God’s ongoing mission to renew and restore the world.

Key Lessons for Today

1. Faith Over Fear: Trust that God is with you in the work He calls you to do (Zechariah 2:5).

2. Empowerment by the Spirit: Rely on God’s Spirit, not your own strength (Zechariah 4:6).

3. Eternal Perspective: Remember that our work for God is part of His eternal plan (Zechariah 8:9-13).

Building God’s Kingdom Together

Zechariah’s encouragement to rebuild the Temple points us to a larger truth: God calls His people to participate in His redemptive plan. We may face opposition, discouragement, and exhaustion, but the Spirit of God equips us with strength, protection, and vision. Let us rebuild with courage and trust, knowing that the work we do for Him will endure.

A Prayer for Rebuilding

Lord,

Thank You for calling us to be part of Your redemptive work. When we feel discouraged, remind us that Your Spirit empowers us. Help us to rely not on our strength but on Your might. Protect us as we labor for Your glory, and give us a vision of the eternal purposes You are unfolding. May our work bring honor to Your name and hope to the world. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

God’s Jealous Love

A Call to Faithful Devotion

Return to Me

Holy Zeal

Jealous for His People

The Passionate Heart of God in Zechariah

Understanding God’s Jealousy and Our Response

Introduction

The book of Zechariah reveals a God who is profoundly invested in His people. God’s jealousy, often misunderstood, reflects His holy love and rightful claim to the devotion of His children. Zechariah records how God was angry with His people for ignoring His prophets and disobeying His commands. Yet, in His anger, we see His deep longing for their faithfulness and flourishing. God’s jealousy is not a petty or insecure emotion but a protective zeal for His people to live fully in their covenant relationship with Him.

God’s Jealousy: Holy and Protective

Zechariah 1:14 declares:

“Thus says the Lord of hosts: I am exceedingly jealous for Jerusalem and for Zion.”

God’s jealousy, as revealed in Zechariah 1:14, is a profound expression of His holy character and His unyielding commitment to His people. It is not driven by insecurity or selfishness but by His covenantal love, which burns with a passion for their wholeness and flourishing. Matthew Henry describes God’s jealousy as “a flame of holy love”—a desire for His people’s exclusive devotion, free from the destructive influences of sin and idolatry.

Eugene Peterson further emphasizes this, likening God’s jealousy to a protective force that says, “I won’t share you with anything that destroys you.” This jealousy is fiercely loyal, ensuring that His people remain in relationship with Him, the source of all life and goodness.

C. S. Lewis and John Calvin both point to the purposeful nature of God’s jealousy. C. S. Lewis reflects this in The Problem of Pain: “God’s love is relentless in its pursuit, demanding nothing less than all of us because He knows that anything less leaves us incomplete.” Calvin ties this jealousy to God’s glory and His desire for our ultimate good, reminding us that God’s ways are always aimed at bringing us into deeper joy and peace in Him.

God’s jealousy is, therefore, both protective and restorative. It calls us away from the paths that lead to destruction and draws us back into the light of His love, where we find true freedom and purpose.

The Consequences of Disobedience

God’s anger in Zechariah is tied to His people’s disobedience and rejection of His messengers. As Zechariah 1:4 warns:

“Do not be like your ancestors, to whom the earlier prophets proclaimed, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: Turn from your evil ways and your evil practices.’ But they would not listen or pay attention to me, declares the Lord.”

This rebellion, deeply rooted in the hardness of their hearts, blinded them to God’s truth and left them vulnerable to false leaders who exploited them. Charles Spurgeon aptly warns, “Disobedience blinds the heart to truth, leaving people vulnerable to false leaders and destructive paths.” It disconnects people from the protective guidance of God’s Word, exposing them to spiritual and moral ruin.

Derek Prince calls rebellion “the root of ruin,” emphasizing that disobedience disrupts the harmony between the Creator and creation. This rebellion is not only a personal failure but a communal one. 

Walter Brueggemann reminds us of the communal consequences of disobedience: “The failure of leaders to follow God results in exploitation and harm to the vulnerable.” The consequences of disobedience, as revealed in Zechariah, are both individual and communal, with far-reaching effects. God’s anger in Zechariah 1:4 stems from His people’s repeated rejection of His prophets and their refusal to turn from evil practices. Leaders who stray from God’s ways lead their people into spiritual decay, creating systems of injustice and oppression.

Zechariah’s warnings are a call to repentance for both leaders and individuals. They remind us that obedience to God is essential not only for personal restoration but for the health of the community as a whole. Only by aligning with God’s will can His people flourish and fulfill their purpose.

God’s Call to Repentance and Renewal

God’s jealousy is not merely about judgment but about restoration. God’s call to repentance and renewal in Zechariah is a profound expression of His holy love and desire to restore His people. While His jealousy and wrath address sin with uncompromising justice, they also pave the way for healing and reconciliation.  Zechariah 8:2 reveals God’s heart:

“Thus says the Lord of hosts: I am jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I am jealous for her with great wrath.”

Zechariah 8:2 reveals God’s passionate commitment to Zion, where His wrath against sin clears the barriers that separate His people from His love. Timothy Keller insightfully explains, “God’s wrath and jealousy work hand in hand to clear away the sin that separates us from His love.” God’s wrath and jealousy are not contradictory but complementary, working together to bring us back into His embrace.

Richard Foster echoes this, stating, “God’s holy jealousy moves us toward renewal, calling us back to the intimacy we were created for.” This holy pursuit is not merely punitive but deeply redemptive, designed to realign our hearts with His.

In Zechariah 1:3, God extends a gracious invitation: “Return to me, and I will return to you.” This promise embodies the hope of restoration, as Martin Lloyd-Jones reminds us: “Repentance is the gateway to restoration, the path back to God’s fatherly embrace.” Repentance is not just an acknowledgment of sin but a turning toward God, a reorientation of life to His will.

Through repentance, God’s people can experience renewal, stepping back into the covenant relationship He longs to share with them. This call is a testament to God’s unfailing love, a holy pursuit that transforms judgment into renewal and wrath into a pathway of grace.

Lessons for Today

Zechariah’s message is timeless. It reminds us of the danger of rejecting God, following false leaders, or leading others astray. Instead, we are called to:

1. Turn to God: N. T. Wright emphasizes, “Turning to God is not a one-time event but a continual practice of reorienting our hearts toward Him.”

2. Obey His Commands: John Wesley teaches, “Obedience is the outward evidence of an inward trust.”

3. Lead Others Faithfully: Rick Warren warns, “Leaders are accountable for the spiritual well-being of those they influence.” Dallas Willard underscores this responsibility: “The greatest gift you can give to others is to be fully surrendered to God yourself.”

Conclusion: God’s Jealous Love

God’s jealousy is a profound expression of His unwavering love—a love that will not settle for half-hearted devotion or anything less than our full flourishing in Him. This divine jealousy is not possessive but protective, seeking to shield us from the dangers of sin and idolatry that separate us from Him. Henri Nouwen beautifully captures this truth: “God’s love is not a passive feeling but an active pursuit, drawing us back to His heart.”

It is a love that relentlessly pursues, not out of need, but out of His desire for our ultimate good. God’s jealousy is a call to wholehearted devotion and a reminder that He alone is the source of life, joy, and peace. Faithfully walking in His ways is not a burden but a reflection of our trust in His perfect love and care.

When we reject what leads us astray and surrender to God, we step into the fullness of His grace. Moreover, by encouraging others to follow Him, we participate in His redemptive plan, pointing them to the love that seeks their good.

God’s jealous love is both a warning and a comfort—a holy passion that calls us back to Him and invites us into a deeper, more intimate relationship. Let us respond by faithfully walking in His ways, rejecting what leads us astray, and encouraging others to do the same.

A Short Prayer

Gracious Father, thank You for Your holy jealousy that seeks our good and draws us back to You. Forgive us for the times we have strayed and disobeyed. Help us to live in faithful devotion to You, leading others to Your truth and love. May our lives reflect Your glory and honor. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria