"The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent me to you. The hands of ZerubbabelThe phrase "The hands of Zerubbabel" emphasizes the personal involvement and leadership of Zerubbabel in the rebuilding of the temple. Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, was the governor of Judah during the return from Babylonian exile. His role is significant as it connects the restoration of the temple with the Davidic line, symbolizing the continuation of God's promises to David. The Hebrew word for "hands" (יָדַיִם, yadayim) often signifies power and action, indicating that Zerubbabel's efforts are divinely empowered. have laid the foundation of this house
This phrase refers to the initial work of rebuilding the temple, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians. The "foundation" (יְסוֹד, yesod) is crucial as it represents the beginning of a new era for the Jewish people, a physical and spiritual renewal. Historically, laying the foundation was a significant event, marking the commitment to restore worship and the community's identity centered around the temple. and his hands will complete it
The assurance that "his hands will complete it" underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Despite opposition and challenges, the completion of the temple is guaranteed by divine decree. This promise would have been a source of encouragement to the people, affirming that what God starts, He finishes. The Hebrew verb for "complete" (כָּלָה, kalah) conveys the idea of bringing to perfection, indicating that the work will not only be finished but will fulfill its intended purpose. Then you will know
This phrase points to the realization and recognition of God's hand in the events. The Hebrew word for "know" (יָדַע, yada) implies an experiential understanding, not just intellectual acknowledgment. It suggests that through the completion of the temple, the people will have a deeper awareness of God's presence and sovereignty. that the LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת, Yahweh Tseva'ot) emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It reassures the people that the God who commands the hosts of heaven is actively involved in their restoration. This title is often used in contexts of divine intervention and deliverance, highlighting God's ability to accomplish His purposes against all odds. has sent me to you
This phrase indicates the divine commissioning of the prophet Zechariah. The assurance that God "has sent me" (שְׁלָחַנִי, shelachani) underscores the authenticity and authority of the prophetic message. It serves as a reminder that the words spoken are not merely human encouragement but are backed by the authority of God Himself, providing a foundation for faith and action. Persons / Places / Events 1. ZerubbabelA governor of Judah, a descendant of David, and a leader in the rebuilding of the temple after the Babylonian exile. His role is significant as he is chosen by God to lead the restoration efforts. 2. The TempleThe house of God in Jerusalem, which Zerubbabel is tasked with rebuilding. It symbolizes God's presence among His people and the restoration of worship. 3. The LORD of HostsA title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies. It underscores His power and authority in orchestrating the events described. 4. The Prophet ZechariahThe author of the book, who delivers God's messages to the people of Judah, encouraging them in their efforts to rebuild the temple. 5. The Exile and ReturnThe historical context of the Jewish people returning from Babylonian exile, a period of renewal and rebuilding both physically and spiritually. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness in CompletionGod promises that what He begins, He will bring to completion. Just as Zerubbabel was assured of finishing the temple, believers can trust God to complete His work in their lives. The Role of Leadership in God's PlanZerubbabel's leadership was crucial in the rebuilding process. God often uses leaders to guide His people, and it is important to support and pray for those in leadership positions. The Importance of Obedience and PerseveranceDespite opposition, Zerubbabel persevered in obedience to God's command. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith and duties, trusting in God's ultimate plan. Recognizing God's SovereigntyThe title "LORD of Hosts" reminds us of God's supreme authority. In our lives, acknowledging His sovereignty brings peace and assurance amidst challenges. The Significance of God's PresenceThe temple represented God's dwelling among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of living a life that honors God's presence within us. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the assurance given to Zerubbabel in Zechariah 4:9 encourage you in your personal walk with God? 2. In what ways can you support and pray for the leaders in your church or community, as Zerubbabel was supported in his leadership role? 3. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition in doing God's work. How did perseverance and obedience play a role in overcoming those challenges? 4. How does recognizing God's sovereignty as the "LORD of Hosts" impact your perspective on current events or personal struggles? 5. Considering that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, how can you cultivate a life that reflects God's presence and glory? Connections to Other Scriptures Ezra 3-6These chapters provide a historical account of the rebuilding of the temple, detailing the challenges and opposition faced by Zerubbabel and the people. Haggai 2Haggai, a contemporary of Zechariah, also encourages the people to rebuild the temple, promising God's presence and blessing. Philippians 1:6This New Testament verse speaks to the confidence that God, who began a good work, will carry it on to completion, paralleling the assurance given to Zerubbabel. People Zechariah, ZerubbabelPlaces JerusalemTopics Almighty, Armies, Base, Clear, Complete, Finish, Foundation, Hands, Hast, Hosts, Laid, Temple, Zerubbabel, Zerub'babelDictionary of Bible Themes Zechariah 4:9 5317 foundation
5408 messenger
7470 temple, significance Zechariah 4:1-14 1431 prophecy, OT methods
4416 branch Zechariah 4:6-9 5776 achievement Zechariah 4:9-10 7254 plumb-line Library September 2. "Who Hath Despised the Day of Small Things" (Zech. Iv. 10).
"Who hath despised the day of small things" (Zech. iv. 10). The oak comes out of the acorn, the eagle out of that little egg in the nest, the harvest comes out of the seed; and so the glory of the coming age is all coming out of the Christ life now, even as the majesty of His kingdom was all wrapped up that night in the babe of Bethlehem. Oh, let us take Him for all our life. Let us be united to His person and His risen body. Let us know what it is to say, "The Lord is for the body and the body is …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth The Founder and Finisher of the Temple
'The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it.'--ZECHARIAH iv. 9. I am afraid that Zerubbabel is very little more than a grotesque name to most Bible-readers, so I may be allowed a word of explanation as to him and as to the original force of my text. He was a prince of the blood royal of Israel, and the civil leader of the first detachment of returning exiles. With Joshua, the high priest, he came, at the head of a little company, to Palestine, and …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Source of Power
'And the Angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep, 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: 3. And two olive-trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof. 4. So I answered and spake to the Angel that talked with …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Independence of Christianity
Now, as this is true in the general of the great acts of God, this is equally true in the minutiae of them. It is true that God has a church, that that church has been redeemed and will be preserved for his glory, and it is equally true that everything that is done to the church, in the church, or for the church either with the permission or by the power of God, is for God's glory, as well as for the church's weal. You will notice, in reading Scripture, that whenever God has blessed the church, he …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857 Encouragement for the Depressed
"For who hath despised the day of small things?"--Zechariah 4:10. ZECHARIAH WAS ENGAGED in the building of the temple. When its foundations were laid, it struck everybody as being a very small edifice compared with the former glorious structure of Solomon. The friends of the enterprise lamented that it should be so small; the foes of it rejoiced and uttered strong expressions of contempt. Both friends and foes doubted whether, even on that small scale, the structure would ever be completed. They …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 61: 1915 The Power
"Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts."--Zech. iv. 6. J. Tauler, 1361. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 Rest from longing and desire O thou weary heart! Dost thou ween thy choice has been Not the lower but the higher, Thine the better part? And therefore dost thou long with bitter longing From the day dawn to the night. For the holiness, the rest of His beloved Who walk with Him in white? Thou art wearied with the striving and the yearning For the crown that thou wouldst …
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series) Conversion --Human Agency In
What part and responsibility pertain to the human will in this matter? Before we leave the subject of conversion, it is important that we consider and understand this question also. For on this point also grievous and dangerous views and practices prevail. Human nature tends to extremes. Here too, there is a tendency to go too far, either in the one direction or the other. There are those, on the one hand, who virtually and practically make this change of heart and of nature a human work. They …
G. H. Gerberding—The Way of Salvation in the Lutheran Church Gifts and Talents.
"And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him."--Judges iii. 10. We now consider the Holy Spirit's work in bestowing gifts, talents, and abilities upon artisans and professional men. Scripture declares that the special animation and qualification of persons for work assigned to them by God proceed from the Holy Spirit. The construction of the tabernacle required capable workmen, skilful carpenters, goldsmiths, and silversmiths, and masters in the arts of weaving and embroidering. Who will furnish Moses …
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit Concerning the Power of the Civil Magistrate in Matters Purely Religious, and Pertaining to the Conscience.
Concerning the Power of the Civil Magistrate in Matters purely Religious, and pertaining to the Conscience. Since God hath assumed to himself the power and Dominion of the Conscience, who alone can rightly instruct and govern it, therefore it is not lawful [1226] for any whosoever, by virtue of any authority or principality they bear in the government of this world, to force the consciences of others; and therefore all killing, banishing, fining, imprisoning, and other such things which are inflicted …
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity Jesus Calls Four Fishermen to Follow Him.
(Sea of Galilee, Near Capernaum.) ^A Matt. IV. 18-22; ^B Mark I. 16-20; ^C Luke V. 1-11. ^a 18 And walking ^b 16 And passing along by the sea of Galilee [This lake is a pear-shaped body of water, about twelve and a half miles long and about seven miles across at its widest place. It is 682 feet below sea level; its waters are fresh, clear and abounding in fish, and it is surrounded by hills and mountains, which rise from 600 to 1,000 feet above it. Its greatest depth is about 165 feet], he [Jesus] …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Of the Necessity of Divine Influences to Produce Regeneration in the Soul.
Titus iii. 5, 6. Titus iii. 5, 6. Not by works of righteousness, which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. IF my business were to explain and illustrate this scripture at large, it would yield an ample field for accurate criticism and useful discourse, and more especially would lead us into a variety of practical remarks, on which it would be pleasant …
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration The Harbinger
The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD , make straight in the desert a high-way for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain. And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. T he general style of the prophecies is poetical. The inimitable simplicity which characterizes every …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1 Zechariah
CHAPTERS I-VIII Two months after Haggai had delivered his first address to the people in 520 B.C., and a little over a month after the building of the temple had begun (Hag. i. 15), Zechariah appeared with another message of encouragement. How much it was needed we see from the popular despondency reflected in Hag. ii. 3, Jerusalem is still disconsolate (Zech. i. 17), there has been fasting and mourning, vii. 5, the city is without walls, ii. 5, the population scanty, ii. 4, and most of the people …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Zechariah 4:9 NIVZechariah 4:9 NLTZechariah 4:9 ESVZechariah 4:9 NASBZechariah 4:9 KJV
Zechariah 4:9 Commentaries
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