Introduction:
The Word to Zerubbabel is a significant biblical event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Zechariah. Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David and the governor of Judah, played a crucial role in the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The prophetic messages delivered to him by Zechariah provided divine encouragement and guidance during this pivotal period in Jewish history.

Historical Context:
Zerubbabel was appointed as the governor of Judah under the Persian King Darius I. Following the decree of Cyrus the Great, which allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem, Zerubbabel led the first group of returnees around 538 B.C. His primary task was to oversee the reconstruction of the Temple, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 B.C.

The Prophetic Message:
The Word to Zerubbabel is primarily found in Zechariah 4. In this chapter, the prophet Zechariah receives a vision involving a golden lampstand and two olive trees. The angel accompanying Zechariah explains the vision, emphasizing the divine empowerment necessary for the completion of the Temple.

Key Themes and Verses:

1. Divine Empowerment:
The central message to Zerubbabel is encapsulated in Zechariah 4:6: "So he said to me, 'This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the LORD of Hosts." This verse underscores the reliance on God's Spirit rather than human strength or resources in accomplishing God's purposes.

2. Assurance of Completion:
Zechariah 4:7 provides assurance of the successful completion of the Temple: "What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. Then he will bring forth the capstone accompanied by shouts of 'Grace, grace to it!'" The "great mountain" symbolizes obstacles, which will be removed by divine intervention, allowing Zerubbabel to finish the work.

3. Encouragement in Small Beginnings:
The message also addresses the discouragement that might arise from the modest beginnings of the Temple's reconstruction. Zechariah 4:10 states, "For who has despised the day of small things? These seven eyes of the LORD, which scan to and fro throughout the earth, will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel." This verse encourages faithfulness in small tasks, assuring that God's watchful presence oversees the work.

4. The Role of the Two Anointed Ones:
The vision concludes with a reference to the two olive trees, identified as "the two anointed ones who stand beside the Lord of all the earth" (Zechariah 4:14). These figures are traditionally understood to represent Zerubbabel and Joshua the high priest, symbolizing the civil and religious leadership working together under God's guidance.

Theological Significance:
The Word to Zerubbabel highlights the importance of divine assistance in fulfilling God's plans. It serves as a reminder that human efforts, while necessary, are insufficient without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. The message also emphasizes God's faithfulness in overcoming obstacles and fulfilling His promises, encouraging believers to trust in His provision and timing.

Conclusion:
The Word to Zerubbabel remains a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and the necessity of spiritual reliance in the face of daunting challenges. Through the prophetic encouragement given to Zerubbabel, believers are reminded of the enduring truth that God's purposes are accomplished "not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit."