Biblical Reference: Zechariah 3:1-10

Context and Background:
The Angel of the LORD's charge to Joshua is a significant event recorded in the book of Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet who ministered to the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian captivity. This vision is part of a series of night visions given to Zechariah, aimed at encouraging the people of Israel and their leaders in the rebuilding of the temple and the restoration of Jerusalem.

The Vision:
In Zechariah 3, the prophet is shown a vision where Joshua the high priest stands before the Angel of the LORD, with Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him. This scene is a heavenly courtroom where Joshua represents the nation of Israel, and Satan acts as the accuser, highlighting the sins and shortcomings of the people.

The Angel of the LORD:
The Angel of the LORD in this passage is a theophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. This is evident from the authority and divine prerogatives He exercises, such as rebuking Satan and pronouncing forgiveness and cleansing over Joshua. The Angel of the LORD is distinct from other angels, often speaking as God Himself and receiving worship.

The Charge:
The Angel of the LORD rebukes Satan, saying, "The LORD rebuke you, Satan! Indeed, the LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?" (Zechariah 3:2). This rebuke emphasizes God's sovereign choice and protection over Jerusalem and His people, despite their past sins and current state.

Joshua is depicted wearing filthy garments, symbolizing the sin and impurity of the nation. The Angel commands that these garments be removed and replaced with clean, rich robes, signifying forgiveness and restoration. The Angel declares, "See, I have removed your iniquity, and I will clothe you with splendid robes" (Zechariah 3:4).

The Symbolism of the Turban:
A clean turban is placed on Joshua's head, completing his transformation and reinstatement as high priest. This act signifies the restoration of the priesthood and the nation's spiritual leadership. The high priest's role is crucial in mediating between God and the people, and this vision underscores the renewal of that sacred office.

The Charge to Joshua:
The Angel of the LORD gives Joshua a solemn charge: "If you walk in My ways and keep My instructions, then you will govern My house and will also have charge of My courts, and I will give you a place among these standing here" (Zechariah 3:7). This charge emphasizes the conditional nature of God's promises, requiring obedience and faithfulness from Joshua and, by extension, the nation of Israel.

The Prophetic Significance:
The vision concludes with a messianic prophecy, pointing to the coming of the Branch, a title for the Messiah. The Angel declares, "I am going to bring My servant, the Branch" (Zechariah 3:8). This prophecy foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who will fulfill the roles of both priest and king, bringing ultimate redemption and restoration.

The Stone with Seven Eyes:
The vision also includes a stone with seven eyes, symbolizing God's perfect knowledge and oversight. The inscription on the stone represents God's promise to remove the iniquity of the land in a single day, a prophetic reference to the atoning work of Christ on the cross.

Conclusion:
The Angel of the LORD's charge to Joshua is a profound message of divine grace, forgiveness, and restoration. It highlights God's sovereign choice, the necessity of obedience, and the promise of a coming Messiah who will bring ultimate redemption. This vision serves as a powerful encouragement to the people of Israel and a foreshadowing of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.