Zacarías

1. STATISTICS: Writer, Zechariah (Zec 1:1) whose name means "GOD is Renown," was of the priestly tribe, possibly born in Babylon. He returned with the first expedition; called to encourage the builders with a view of the glorious future; time, 520-518 B.C.; key thought, GOD is in this work; key verse, Zec 14:9.

2. THEME: The first returning group of exiles was 50,000 strong, but had been hindered and finally stopped building. GOD spoke through Zechariah (and Haggai) to stir up their hearts and renew their labors. While Haggai’s burden seemed to be the religious life of the people, Zechariah’s was to concentrate on the national and political. His ministry extended over two years and he was used to bring to completion the restoration of the temple. His main ministry looked far into the future envisioning both the first coming of the Messiah and His return in power and great glory.

3. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Book is divided: eight visions (given in a single night) dealing with a large variety of subjects (Zech 1:1-21 through Zec 6:1-15); four given directly to a questioning company from Babylon (Zec 7:2, 3) answering their problems; two burdens (Zec 7:1-14 and Zec 8:1-23) concerning future oppression and eventual triumph (Zec 9:1-17 through Zec14:1-21).

The expression "Thus saith the Lord" is found 89 times; the term "The Lord of hosts" 36 times. Zechariah contains more specific promises relative to the crucifixion than any other Old Testament book except Psalms (Zec 9:9; 11:12, 13; 13:6, 7).

4. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: In spite of meager circumstances and coming opposition for the chosen people, GOD is still to

triumph and with Him, His people. A detail to remember is the intermingling of the work of the MESSIAH, first as suffering SAVIOUR, then as resistless Sovereign. GOD’s watchful interest in other nations is clearly demonstrated both in relation to their sin and idolatry, and with reference to their treatment of Israel. A delightful picture of the future is presented in the coming happiness of Zion with streets full of children (8:3-5) and all nations of the world coming to the Jews to learn of their GOD (Zec 8:22, 23).

5. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Life is not concerned with time alone. There is an overruling power which works in time to prepare for eternity. The Jewish nation is but an example of the great passion of the heart of GOD for the sons of men.