Zechariah 8:6

This is what the LORD of Hosts says: "If this is impossible in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days, should it also be impossible in My eyes?" declares the LORD of Hosts.

Study Bible

This is what the LORD of Hosts says
The phrase "LORD of Hosts" is a translation of the Hebrew "Yahweh Sabaoth," which emphasizes God's supreme command over the heavenly armies and all creation. This title underscores His omnipotence and authority, reminding the people of Israel that their God is not only a personal deity but also the sovereign ruler of the universe. Historically, this title reassures the Israelites of divine protection and power, especially significant during the post-exilic period when they were rebuilding their community and temple amidst opposition.

If it is impossible in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days
The "remnant" refers to the small group of Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. This term carries a rich theological significance, often used to describe those who remain faithful to God despite widespread unfaithfulness. The phrase "in these days" situates the prophecy in a specific historical context, a time of discouragement and seemingly insurmountable challenges. The "impossible" tasks likely refer to the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple, which seemed beyond human capability given their limited resources and opposition.

should it also be impossible in My eyes?
This rhetorical question challenges the people's perception of impossibility by contrasting it with God's limitless power. The Hebrew root for "impossible" (פָּלָא, pala) often denotes something extraordinary or miraculous. By questioning whether what seems impossible to humans is also impossible for Him, God invites His people to trust in His ability to perform miracles and fulfill His promises. This reflects a consistent biblical theme where God's perspective and capabilities far exceed human limitations.

declares the LORD of Hosts
The repetition of "LORD of Hosts" at the end of the verse reinforces the authority and reliability of the message. It serves as a divine seal, assuring the people that the promise comes from the highest authority. This declaration is meant to inspire faith and confidence in God's promises, encouraging the remnant to look beyond their immediate circumstances and trust in God's sovereign plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD of Hosts
A title emphasizing God's sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, highlighting His power and authority.

2. The Remnant of This People
Refers to the Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile, representing those who remained faithful and were preserved by God.

3. Those Days
The period of restoration and rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple after the Babylonian exile.

4. Zechariah
A prophet who conveyed God's messages to the Israelites, encouraging them during the rebuilding process.

5. Jerusalem
The city central to Jewish identity and worship, undergoing restoration in the context of this prophecy.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
Trust in God's ability to accomplish His purposes, even when circumstances seem insurmountable.

Faith in God's Promises
Encourage believers to hold fast to God's promises, knowing that He is faithful and able to fulfill them.

Perspective on Impossibilities
Challenge believers to view their challenges through the lens of God's power rather than human limitations.

Encouragement in Times of Restoration
Offer hope to those in a season of rebuilding or restoration, reminding them of God's past faithfulness and future promises.

Community and Remnant
Highlight the importance of being part of the faithful remnant, committed to God's purposes and plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's title as "LORD of Hosts" influence your view of His power in your life?

2. In what ways can you relate to the "remnant" in your current spiritual journey or community?

3. Reflect on a situation in your life that seems impossible. How does Zechariah 8:6 encourage you to trust God in that situation?

4. How can you apply the principle of God's sovereignty over impossibilities to your daily decision-making and faith walk?

5. What other biblical accounts or characters demonstrate God's ability to accomplish what seems impossible, and how do they inspire your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 32:17
This verse speaks of God's omnipotence, affirming that nothing is too hard for Him, which parallels the message in Zechariah 8:6 about God's ability to accomplish what seems impossible.

Matthew 19:26
Jesus' teaching that with God all things are possible echoes the assurance given in Zechariah 8:6.

Isaiah 55:8-9
These verses remind us that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours, reinforcing the idea that what seems impossible to humans is not so for God.