Introducing the real Jesus

Read Matthew 1.

The overarching distinctive of Matthew's gospel is to present Jesus as the King.  Of utmost importance to being crowned as a king is one's birthright to the throne.  That is why chapter one begins with the human genealogy of Jesus. This is proof of His lineage as it traces His earthly heritage from Abraham to Joseph.

Much of the Old Testament's story-line is behind the names listed here.  Do not miss the unusual mention of four women by name (plus, Bathsheba is simply called “the wife of Uriah) among all the forefathers.  They each had stories of tragedy and redemption.
-Tamar (v.3) conceived twins from Judah, her father-in-law.
-Rahab (v.5) was a Gentile prostitute of Jericho, who came to believe in God.
-Ruth (v.5) a widow, also a Gentile, who embraced the faith of her mother-in-law.

-Bathsheba (v.6) committed adultery with King David and gave birth to Solomon.
-Mary (v.16) an unmarried, young virgin who miraculously became pregnant with Jesus.

There are five unmistakable claims in this chapter as to who Jesus is.
1. He is the son of David. (v.1a)
According to the covenant that the LORD made in 2 Samuel 7, David’s descendants are the perpetual royal family of the Jews.  Jesus is the fulfillment of this promise.  "He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever." (2 Samuel 7:13)

2. He is the son of Abraham. (v.1b)
The unconditional covenant God made with Abraham and his descendants in Genesis 12:1-3 is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus.  "...and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

3. His human birth is of the Holy Spirit. (vv.18-20)
Though the earthly family is emphasized in the opening verses, twice we are reassured here that Joseph was not the father of Jesus.  Otherwise, Jesus would have been a sinner by birth (Romans 5:12).  Mary conceived as a result of the special work of the Holy Spirit in her body.  This was a miracle conception and a fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy.  "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14a)

4. He is the Savior from sin. (v.21)
The name Jesus means savior or deliverer.  In the Old Testament, the equivalent is the name Joshua.  However, the angel's declaration is specific as to the mission in saying that this Jesus "will save his people from their sins."  To downplay awfulness of sin and the individual need for a personal savior is to discredit the very purpose of the first coming of Christ.

5. He is God in the flesh. (v.23)
Completing the quote from Isaiah 7:14, the angel declared that Jesus will be known as Immanuel, "(which means, God with us)."  Those who deny that Jesus was God in the flesh either do not know or simply do not believe the Scriptures.

How important is it to know and place one's faith in the real Jesus?
Jesus claimed that those who believe in Him "may have eternal life." (John 3:15)

Preparing for the return of Christ

Read Malachi 4.

The day of the LORD contains two aspects.  It will be a time of judgment followed by joy.  In this closing chapter of the Old Testament, we are told that the power and works of all evildoers will be destroyed.  Like a devastating fire, all the influence of those who rejected God will be reduced to nothing.

Then, joy will be the experience of those "who fear my name."  When Christ returns, His righteousness will shine everywhere as the noonday sun.  What follows is a word of encouragement and two admonitions.

1. Restoration is coming. (v.3)
The righteous and holy rule of Jesus from Jerusalem will result in a healing of the people and for the land.  So great will be the blessings of this time, the people will be jumping for joy.

2. Remember to obey God's word. (v.4)
In the meantime, those who revere and respect the LORD are to know and put into practice His expectations of how to live.

3. Review the signs of His coming. (v.5)
Those who chose to ignore 17 books of the writing prophets miss more than 25% of God's word.  In addition, much of the New Testament provides hope and confidence in our faith with details of the future from Jesus, many statements in the Epistles, and the book of Revelation.  As a result, they live incomplete and unprepared lives.

The Holy Spirit through Malachi prompted Judah to be on the lookout for one who would prepare the coming of Messiah.  "I will send you Elijah the prophet."

Preparing the First Coming:
Concerning the birth of John, the Baptist, an angel of the Lord appeared to his parents and declared, "...he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah...to make ready for the Lord a people prepared." (Luke 1:17)  Then, Jesus commented concerning John, the Baptist, "...and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come."  (Matthew 11:14)   However, Israel rejected Jesus, as a nation.  But the offer was there.

Preparing the Second Coming:
Some time after John, the Baptist had been beheaded, Jesus took Peter, James and John up on a mountain.  There the curtain of His humanity was pulled back so these three could see the Deity of Christ.  Appearing with Jesus in that moment was none other than Moses and Elijah.  The disciples asked about the statement in Malachi about Elijah.  Jesus responded, "Elijah does come, and he will restore all things."  Then, he referred back to what He previously stated in Matthew 11:14.

In Revelation 11, as the Great Tribulation moves toward its climax, two powerful witnesses come upon the scene.  They will preach for 1260 days.  When reading their characteristics, it is hard not to see the descriptions of Moses and Elijah.

Jesus said, "I will come again" (John 14:3).  His appearing will be visible, personal, and powerful as He returns to set up His earthly kingdom.  And, we "we reign with him for a thousand years" (Revelation 20:6).

Where is the God of Justice?

Read Malachi 3.

At the end of chapter two, the people expressed confusion about evil doers who seem to enjoy the blessings of God while they do not.  But God had plainly presented their own unfaithfulness and their hypocrisy in even asking the question.  So, they cried out further, "Where is the God of justice?"  Of all things people should not be asking for God's justice for themselves but mercy from the LORD.  However, God has an answer.

He is sending "my messenger and he will prepare the way before me."  Jesus quoted Malachi 3:1 and identified this messenger to be John, the Baptist (Matthew 11:10).  This was during Messiah's first coming.  The scene abruptly changes as the descriptions jump to His second coming.  Then, Jesus will "come to his Temple."  It was not His Temple the first time Jesus came.  This is another indication that the Temple in Jerusalem must be rebuilt.  Next, we learn that His coming will be as a Judge.

The first priority of the second coming of Christ to earth will be to establish holiness (Zechariah 14:20-21).  Two analogies of His purification are given.  That day will be like a refining fire is to precious metal and soap that cleanses.  Jesus will not come as a babe in a manager and the suffering Savior.  In that day, He will mete out His earthly justice, "who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?"

Who are these who will deserve God's justice?  (v.5)
-sorcerers
-adulterers
-liars
-oppressors of workers, widows and the fatherless
-the inhospitable
-those who do not fear the LORD

The purpose is to establish a holy culture in which Jesus will rule and reign over the world for a thousand years.  Note this judgment on earth should not be confused with either the Judgment Seat of Christ, which if for rewarding believers (2 Corinthians 5:10), or with the Great White Throne Judgment that will eternally send unbelievers into the Lake of Fire (Revelation 20:11-15).

Another indictment follows as God accuses them of robbing Him.  He is poised to bless them.  But their failure to bring both their tithes and their offerings in support of the work of the ministry at the Temple brought more of God's discipline.

The closing of this chapter reminds us that this God of justice who keeps careful individual records of all wrong doing also keeps the same records of those who are faithful to Him.  "For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do." (Hebrews 6:10)

How God evaluates Faithfulness

Read Malachi 2.

The Holy Spirit guided the Apostle Paul to write, "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful."  The immediate context of that statement has to do with the stewardship of the God-given message and ministry.  Indeed, all of life is a stewardship from God.  And, each person will be held accountable for how well they managed all that God gave to them.

Malachi presents a series of indictments directly from God.  Chapter two addresses three areas of failure to be good and faithful stewards.

1. Faithful to God. (vv.1-9)
After revealing the sloppy and sinful manner in which the business of the Temple was being conducted, God next spoke pointedly to the priests.  "This is a command for you."  God's name had been treated with disrespect.  His word was not followed.  These priests had violated their calling and charge.  The LORD established the priesthood with the tribe of Levi.  He made a "covenant of salt" (Numbers 18) with instructions on what they were to do and how it was to be done.  Instead, these men treated it as a job and went through the motions, disregarding God's word and expectations.  Their service was to flow from a heart that desired to "honor my name" (v.2).

In great contrast, the LORD reviewed the qualities of one who would serve Him faithfully.
-"He stood in awe of my name."  The very mention of God's name should strike a holy respect.
-"True instruction was in his mouth."  They were to teach God's word and not vary from the truth with the changes in culture, personal opinions, or what other thought.  See also verse 9.
-"...walked with me in peace and uprightness."  This refers to how one lives their personal life.  Living for God will be visibly evident to everyone.
-"He turned away from iniquity."  Sin in one's life is not to be rationalized on any level.  It is not to be tolerated.  It is a spiritual cancer to be shunned.

2. Faithful to one another. (vv.10-12)
This nation of Jews shared a physical and spiritual heritage.  By creation, God was their Father and they had a human obligation to each other.  By calling and covenant, they traced their family tree to Abraham.  They obviously were not treating each other as family.  The LORD had provided specific instructions concerning their behaviors toward one another, but they ignored them.

In the New Testament, the family of God is determined by mutual faith in Jesus.  The term "one another" appears repeatedly in the instructions about Christian behavior.  The true Christian life is lived in dependence on and serving each other.

3. Faithful to one's spouse. (vv.13-16)
They questioned God as to why He did not bless them after all they did for Him.  He responded with their lack of faithfulness to their marriage vows.  First and foremost, they had intermarried with those who did not have a mutual commitment to the LORD.  This is forbidden in both the Old and New Testaments and shows a lack of faithfulness to God.  Marriage is a covenant relationship of a man and a woman before God for life.  The NIV translates verse 16 this way: "'I hate divorce,' says the LORD God of Israel."

Each time, the indication is that their worship and offerings were meaningless and rejected due to their lack of obedience in these areas.  May we daily live throughout each day faithful to the assignment and relationships He has given to us.

When ritual is not Worship

Read Malachi 1.

The people began to question God's promises and plans.  They wondered if serving God was worth it.  Their practices of worship became cold, routine, mechanical observances while ignoring God's requirements.  So, the LORD employed a series of indictments against them to pierce their hard hearts.  And, each time the response was, "Who us?  Wherein did we ever do that?"  Forty-seven of the fifty-five verses are spoken by God.

Indictment #1: I have loved you. (vv.2-5)
That does not sound like an accusation until you read the response.  The LORD made the statement because He was not receiving any love return.
Response: How have you loved us?
Answer: I chose you.
It was His own sovereign decision to establish an everlasting covenant with Abraham and his descendants.  The choice of Isaac was due to being the sole son of Sarah.  Then, He chose Jacob over Esau.  From there the twelve sons of Jacob and their families carry the promise of the covenant.  God presented that evidence as exhibit A for proof of His love for them.

Indictment #2: You have despised my name. (vv.6-14)
God compared His name and reputation to that of an earthly father and an authority in their lives; both names demand due respect.  A child carries the father's last name for life and has a responsibility to protect the family reputation.  So important is the protection, use, and glory of God’s name that it is mentioned five times in these fourteen verses.
Response: How have we despised your name?
Answer: By offering polluted food upon my altar.
Response: How have we polluted you?
Answer: By saying the LORD's table may be despised.
This exchange is particularly directed at the Temple priests.  They knew the demands of the Law regarding acceptable sacrifices.  Yet, they deliberately sinned against God ("is that not evil?").  The sacrifices brought by the people were to be the best, the finest, without spot or blemish.  These disobedient priests allowed animals to be offered that no one wanted and had little value; the blind, lame, sick, or even taken by force from someone else.  The LORD stated concerning those who try to offer Him less than their best, "Cursed be the cheat."

Shockingly, God said in verse 10, if this type of behavior continued it would be just as well that the doors of the Temple be closed and, therefore, there would be no need to build a fire for the sacrifices.  Stop all this ritual that disregards God's word!

This should give us all pause to think about how we approach worship today.  Worship is to be a demonstration of one's love for God and an obedient lifestyle.  Otherwise, repentance is required.  Coming before Him unprepared to give one's best is unacceptable.  Worship and giving are inseparable.  So let us be prepared...
1. To give Him glory and praise.
2. To give Him ourselves.
3. To give Him the first and best of our resources.

12 characteristics of Jesus' 2nd Coming

Read Zechariah 14.

In the last days, pressure upon Israel will be unprecedented.  It will not be merely one nation that will come against them.  It will be a world-wide coalition.  Verse two explains that the LORD "will gather all the nations against Jerusalem."  Things will get a lot worse before they get better.  The armies will converge at Armageddon and the Jews experience up to 50% in losses.

As the prophecy of Zechariah concludes, the Holy Spirit had him write down no less than a dozen items that will characterize "that day."
1. Jesus will appear to fight for Israel. (v.3)
The Apostle John described even more of the prophetic scene.  "Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse!  The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war." (Revelation 19:11).  He will not be alone-"...and all the holy ones with him" (v.5).  The army of heaven will be with Him, along "with all his saints" (1 Thessalonians 3:13).

2. Jesus will stand on the Mount of Olives. (v.4)
This is the very place where He ascended into heaven after the resurrection.  At that time, angels appeared to declare, "This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." (Acts 1:9-12)  His return will be earthly, visible, personal, and powerful!

3. Jesus will split the Mount of Olives. (v.4)
This division will create a new valley and, apparently, be used to aid the Jews in escaping the battle.

4. Jesus will demonstrate His control of the universe. (vv.6-7)
It will be a very strange day as far as the environment is concerned with supernatural wonders.  Jesus, the Creator, in the beginning said, "Let there be light."  Therefore, it is not unusual that all the elements of His creation are at His command. (Colossians 1:16-17)

5. Jesus will provide "living water." (v.8)
Water will flow from Jerusalem in two directions, east and west.  It will provide year around nourishment for agricultural production the world has never seen.  Other prophecies indicate that there may be medicinal properties in the water, as well.

6. Jesus will reign as king over all the earth. (v.9)
On that day, He will be universally recognized and as the Kings of kings and LORD of lords.

7. Jesus will change the topography of the land. (v.10)
Israel's land will be flattened, except for Jerusalem.  The city with the new Temple will be an even more exalted location.

8. Jesus will end all threats against Jerusalem. (v.11)
After centuries of persecution culminating with Armageddon, the Prince of Peace will rule.  No longer will Israel suffer threats of annihilation.

9. Jesus will destroy all the enemies. (vv.12-15)
Those who have come to do battle against the Jews will find themselves destroyed by panic and by plague.

10. Jesus will give the spoils of the war to Israel. (v.14)
The world's wealth that resourced the war against the Jews will then provide for their abundance.

11. Jesus will be worshiped. (v.16)
Even Gentiles families will come to bow before Christ.

12. Jesus will be treated with honor everywhere. (vv.20-21)
"Holy to the LORD" will not be limited to worship at the Temple.  He will be honored everywhere and in everything.

For us today, the Apostle Peter admonished believers in Jesus to "...honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15)

5 prophetic statements from God, the Father

Read Zechariah 13.

From Zechariah's view, all future events blended into one continuum.  Today, we can see the separation of those prophecies as they have been fulfilled and will unfold.

"On that day" the people of Israel will experience personal cleansing from sin according to verse one.  Then, the LORD will cleanse the land of all false worship.  Radical change is always an indicator of true repentance.  All false prophets and evil will be removed.

The rest of the chapter (vv.7-9) is a poem recapping the first and second advents of Christ.
1. God, the Father, called the Messiah as "my shepherd."
Throughout the Old and New Testaments this analogy is used for God's care, provision, and protection of His people.  Today, church pastors have the human responsibility to watch over the local flock of God.  But the Apostle Peter looked forward to that future day "when the Chief Shepherd appears" (1 Peter 5:4).

2. God, the Father, called the Messiah "the man who stands next to me."
This is a term found elsewhere in the Old Testament and refers to one who is a relative, kinsman, and in unity.  It is a statement of the deity of Christ and His eternal nature.  Of Jesus, the Apostle John wrote, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1)

3. God, the Father called for the Messiah to be killed.
The crucifixion was God's plan all along to pay for sin once and for all.  "...we esteemed him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.  But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace; and with his wounds we are healed." (Isaiah 53:4b-5)  In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus faced the agony of the cross praying, "Not my will but yours be done." (Luke 22:42)

4. God, the Father, predicted that Messiah's followers would desert Him.
When Jesus prepared the disciples for the sobering events that would shortly take place, He quoted this very verse from Zechariah in Matthew 26:31.  That was when Peter rose up and declared, "Though all fall away because of you, I will never fall away."  But he did, along with the others, just as the prophecy said.

5. God, the Father, predicted a time of future of refinement for the Jews.
The horrendous loss of life that will take place during the Great Tribulation is compared to the purification process of gold.  The remnant will be a godly nation who will enjoy a personal relationship with the LORD.  He will be theirs and they will be His.

For us today, the Apostle John wrote this encouragement to believers in Jesus: "Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is." (1 John 3:2)

What will happen on that Day?

Read Zechariah 12.

This chapter may be the most compact prophecy concerning the Jews in the entire Bible.  It is "the word of the LORD concerning Israel."  The trigger phrase is "on that day," which is repeated throughout this oracle, and refers to those future events surrounding the second coming of Christ.

Overarching the prophecy is the reminder that God is not only the Creator of all things but He is also the Almighty Controller.  And, it is personal.  He even "formed the spirit of man within him" (v.1).  Therefore, the LORD's ability to raise up and put down entire nations is without question for the Omnipotent God of the Bible.  As He is Omniscient, He can accurately communicate in advance here what will take place then.

1. All nations of the earth will gather against Jerusalem. (vv.2-9)
As an example, one can imagine what would happen if suddenly Israel took over the Dome of the Rock, destroyed it, and began building a new Temple.  Or, if Israel began reclaiming all the territory promised to Abraham and his descendants as listed in Genesis.  Whatever the cause, the nations of the world will one day unite in an attempt to fight against Israel and to destroy Jerusalem.  This is the battle of Armageddon.

However, the collective military might of the world will utterly fail.  It will not be because of Israel's military superiority or cunning.  "The LORD will give salvation to the tents of Judah..." (v.7).  The Jews will be supernaturally empowered to fight.  "...the feeblest among them on that day shall be like David" (v.8).  God states, "...I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem" (v.9).  Jesus will appear with His heavenly armies and crush all the enemy forces (Revelation 19:11-16).

2. Israel will experience a period of deep repentance. (vv.10-14)
When Jesus reveals Himself in the heavens, the Jews will "look on me, on him whom they have pierced."  The weeping and mourning will be traumatic for every person as they realized that Jesus really is the Messiah.

3. Israel will be cleansed from all sin. (13:1)
The Jews will welcome the forgiveness, paid for by Christ on the cross.  That fountain of His shed blood alone has the power to "cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

William Cowper penned the old and graphic hymn.
"There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Immanuel's veins;
And sinners, plunged beneath that flood, lose all their guilty stains."

A tale of two Shepherds

Read Zechariah 11.

In his most famous song, King David wrote in Psalm 23, "The LORD is my shepherd."  A good shepherd leads and feeds his sheep.  He cares for and defends the flock against any and all who would harm them, even to the point of sacrificing his own life.  It is a common metaphor in the Bible depicting God's love and faithfulness to His own people.

When Jesus, the Good Shepherd (John 10) appeared, He was nationally rejected.  Verse 8 tells how deep the rejected would be, "They also detested me."  This echoes what Isaiah wrote of Israel's response to the Messiah in His first coming: "he was despised and we esteemed him not" (Isaiah 53:3b).  The reference to thirty pieces of silver (the price of a slave) would be offensive to a faithful shepherd.  It is an unmistakable prophecy fulfilled by Judas' betrayal in Matthew 26:14-16.  Therefore, the Good Shepherd of the Jews will remove Himself from them as a nation for a time.  He will not provide for them nor protect them.  "I will no longer have pity" (v.6).

To illustrate the message, two named shepherd staffs are used.  Each of them is said to be broken.
1. Favor.
God's favor in verse ten refers to His "covenant" with the Gentile nations that kept them at bay and provided protection of Israel.  If God withdraws that protection, the Jews indeed would be like lambs headed for the slaughter.  The Holy Spirit had the Apostle Paul call this spiritual period as "a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in." (Romans 11:25)

2. Union.
In verse fourteen, the second named staff refers to the oneness of Israel and Judah.  They divided into two kingdoms after the death of Solomon.  After the scattering of the north and the exile of the south, reuniting the two would have been a desirable goal.  But the Persian Empire controlled them. Then, the Greeks rose to power.  Finally, the Romans moved in to dominate and once again destroy Jerusalem along with the reconstructed Temple in A.D. 70.

The Jews will turn to "a foolish shepherd" (v.15).  He will do nothing but harm them for his own advantage.  Revelation 13 and the following chapters describe how God will fulfill His dealing with this false spiritual leader.  All of these will be preparing the Jews for the second coming of Messiah.

The good news is that individuals have, can and will place their faith in that One Good Shepherd who indeed gave His life for us.  While we await His return, we may cast all our "anxieties on him, because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

Words of compassion from the Good Shepherd

Read Zechariah 10.

The prophecy looks forward to a complete and prosperous restoration of Israel.  It will come about after a horrendous fight and the arrival of the Messiah in His second coming.

During those days, people will be looking for help and guidance.  The leaders will be taking the nation away from the LORD with the worship of false gods, lies, false dreams, and "empty consolation" (v.2).  All of those things will prove to be nothing more than "utter nonsense" (v.1).  In response, God will pour out His anger against those who influenced His people into sin.  Why?  Because these are His chosen people and like a good shepherd He "cares for his flock" (v.3).

Verse four gives a fourfold description of the Messiah.
1. The cornerstone
Jesus is the starting point of building one's faith.
2. The tent peg
Jesus is the anchor that holds secure through every circumstance and change in life.
3. The battle bow
Though Israel will fight the enemies, it is God's power that will bring the victory.  Jesus will appear ready to do battle, unleashing "the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty" (Revelation 19:11-16).
4. The ruler
Jesus, the Prince of Peace will reign from Jerusalem on the throne of David "and the government shall be upon his shoulders" (Isaiah 9:6).
Israel will be victorious coming out of the Great Tribulation "because the LORD is with them" (v.5).

There are four comforting statements here regarding that future restoration of Jews.
1. "I will bring them back." (v.6)
God will do this out of His great compassion for them and will treat the Jews "as though I had not rejected them."
2. "I have redeemed them." (v.8)
The requisite for restoration is redemption.  The nation will repent and be saved by Jesus (Romans 11).
3. "I will bring them home." (v.10)
This is a geographical return for the Jews.  They will enjoy the land God promised to Abraham and his physical descendants "till there is no room for them."
4. "I will make them strong in the LORD." (v.12)
Then, as a godly people, they will walk in obedience to Him.

These last four highlighted statements is God's desire for every person of every nation.  He wants everyone to experience His forgiveness and restoration.  He wants everyone to repent and "come home" to Him.  That is when people find new life and the Holy Spirit's power to live for the LORD.

History in Advance

Read Zechariah 9.

True prophecy is history in advance.  Now, the anticipation builds.

Two prophetic announcements comprise the closing chapters of the book of Zechariah.  The first focuses primarily on the first coming of Messiah (chapters 9-11).  The second presents the Messiah in His second coming (chapters 12-14).

While Zechariah lived and wrote this book during the days of the Medo-Persian Empire, this prophecy foretells of the next empire.  Amazingly, Greece is even named in verse 13.  This corresponds exactly to Daniel's prophetic interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream.  God used Alexander the Great to fulfill the conquering judgments against Syria and Philistia, whose cities are mentioned here.  Though Jerusalem could also have been a target of the Grecian invasion, the LORD promised to personally protect the city.  "Then I will encamp at my house as a guard, so that none shall march to and fro..." (v.8a).  For obvious reasons, the second part of verse 8, with its promise that "no oppressor shall again march over them," seems to refer to God's ultimate protection of the Jews during the Millennium.

There will come a time when the LORD will "stir up" the Jews to fight against Greece (v.13).   This is most certainly a reference to the inter-testament revolt by the Maccabees.

Like so many Messianic passages, the two advents of Christ are melded together.
Two powerful prophecies:
1. The first advent of Jesus.  (v.9)
The announcement that the "king is coming to you" depicted Him as riding on a donkey.  Hardly the picture of a royal entrance.  Messiah is described in three ways: righteous, a deliverer ("having salvation"), and humble.  He offered Himself to Israel.  This verse is quoted in Matthew 21:4-5 as Jesus rode into Jerusalem as a fulfilled prophecy in what is commonly called the triumphal entry.  Though a public celebratory welcome took place at first, the week ended with rejection and crucifixion.  The Jews officially spurned Him as their king.

2. The second advent of Jesus. (v.10)
It is when Jesus comes again that He will rule and reign as the Prince of Peace.  Implements of war will be "cut off."  The land and people of Israel will be abundantly restored ("double").

Knowing these things and more, the Apostle Peter asked believers in Jesus, "what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming day of God..." (2 Peter 3:11-12)

Imagine a time when...

Read Zechariah 8.

The overarching purpose of Zechariah is for the people to complete the work in rebuilding the Temple.  The motivation is to prepare themselves spiritually and behaviorally for the plans God has for this nation.

Chapter eight contains the conclusion of a series of four messages that came directly from the LORD.  These cast vision of what the future will include for the Jews.  They served to encourage the people during Zechariah's time but looks forward to the coming reign of Messiah.

Message #3: The Restoration of Jerusalem (vv.1-17)
Just as sure as the disaster came, so will God bring "good to Jerusalem and to the house of Judah" (v.17).  He paints a beautiful picture where young and old can enjoy safety in the streets (vv.4-5).  The LORD made three promises:
1. His presence will be there. (v.3)
This is not referring to His Omnipresence but the geographical presence of His glory.  God removed Himself from the Holy of Holies in the Temple before it was destroyed.  This reassured the people of the return of His glory.  In the near term, He would again occupy the Holy Place.  In the Millennial Kingdom, Jesus will sit on the throne of David.
2. His peace will be there. (v.12a)
After all the wars, the Jews can finally live in their homeland and be about the business of rebuilding.  However, in context, they are still under Persian control.  In the New Testament, they were under Roman domination.  This promise has an eye toward that future time when the Prince of Peace will be in charge.
3. His prosperity will be there. (v.12b)
When God disciplined His people, He withheld blessings upon the land.  But here is the promise of a time of wonderful production for the people.

Imagine a time in Jerusalem when there is no fear (v.15b).  When the word of God gives specific places and people, there is simply no way to spiritualize these prophecies and maintain Biblical integrity.  All will be fulfilled.

Message #4: The Rejoicing in Jerusalem (vv.18-23)
Verses 18-19 answer the question the delegation asked in 7:3 concerning their self-imposed time of fasting.  In that future day, all fasting and mourning will be turned into feasting and celebration.  The Pharisees asked Jesus about why His disciples did not practice ceremonial fasting.  "And Jesus said to them, 'Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?  The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.'" (Matthew 9:14-15)

Imagine a time in Jerusalem when Jesus returns and all Israel worships Him.  There will be no more fasts.  The Gentiles from all the nations of the world will want to come to Jerusalem to seek God's favor.  Instead of being despised by so many, then people will be asking Jews, "Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you" (v.23).

While we wait, imagine that the world would seek out believers in Jesus today because they "heard that God is with you."

Why am I doing This?

Read Zechariah 7.

Revisiting our routines can be a healthy exercise; mentally, emotionally, and, perhaps, spiritually.  Reexamining our motives is a good thing.  Too often people trap themselves into doing the same things the same way and become unable to explain why.  Thinking people eventually will ask themselves, "Why am I doing this?"

The reconstruction of the Temple in Jerusalem was underway.  It would require four years to complete.  About half-way into the project, a question was asked about fasting.  This particular fast was self-imposed and not ordered by God.  It began with the sincere motive of memorializing the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians.  But that was over seventy years ago.  Now, they questioned whether or not they should continue the practice.

This chapter begins a series of four messages marked by "the word of the LORD came."  It is interesting to note that God did not provide an answer to their question in this first message.  He addressed it in message #4 (8:18-19).  God had something else He wanted to say to them first.

Message #1: 3 Questions (vv.1-7)
Each of God's questions was meant to drill down to their real motives for fasting or feasting.  The "why" they were doing it was more important to the LORD than the "what."  This is the danger of religious rituals.

Merely showing up, going through the motions, and reciting certain words by rote does not mean anything happened that pleased God.  For instance, most liturgical practices began with the good motives of teaching, training, and remembering specific Biblical truths.  But over time, Bible teaching ceased to be the priority and routine became a substitute for the true worship of God.  The people know the routine without being able to open their own personal Bible and explain why.

Contemporary churches have nearly as many routine practices and requirements as liturgical ones, though most do not realize it.

The purpose of fasting is to humble oneself before God, usually in repentance and/or grief.  One either loses their appetite for food due to an adversity or they may discipline themselves to spend that time in prayer instead of eating.  God had ordered certain fasts under the law.  But again, the fast mentioned in this chapter was not one of them.

God's question to them was, "Are you doing this for Me or for yourself?"

Message #2: 3 Reminders (vv.8-14)
While He has their attention, God reviews a bit of history for these questioners.  If they are going through the ritual of fasting for memorial purposes, what do they remember?  Do they remember why Jerusalem was destroyed?  Do they remember how faithful God was to send His messengers, the prophets, to warn the people?  Do they remember His admonishments to them?

Rituals and remembrances have their places, but what pleases the LORD is when Biblical beliefs are demonstrated in our behaviors.  Verse 9 is reminiscent of Micah 6:8.
1."Render true judgments,
2. show kindness
3. and mercy to one another."

The coming King

Read Zechariah 6.

The word of the LORD was revealed to Zechariah in a series of eight visions in a single night.  Their purposes served to give encouragement in the near-term and hope for the nation's future.

Vision #8 concerns four horses of different colors.  Their assignment is to "patrol the earth" (v.7).  Except for the mention of the chariots, these appear to fulfill the same role as those mentioned in chapter one (1:8-10).  It underscores the fact that beyond this physical realm, God is at work.  There is a spiritual war that constantly takes place.  "The LORD of all the earth" (v.5) has full knowledge of what is happening everywhere.  His angelic messengers are on patrol to protect, to intervene, and/or mete out God's judgment.

The north and south are the only directions mentioned here.  Presumably, the immediate objects of attention are Babylon in the north and Egypt in the south.

Four horses of the same colors are seen again in Revelation 6.  There, each of them has a rider.  During the Great Tribulation, they will be instrumental in implementing God's judgment upon the earth.  This will be done to deal with the enemies of God, to prepare the Jews to be a holy nation, and to introduce Jesus in His second coming.  Then, He will establish His earthly kingdom, as promised.

In order to give tangible hope for the advent of Messiah's reign, Zechariah was told to make a king's crown of gold and silver.  The precious metals were received from a delegation of Jews who just arrived from Babylon.  The crown was then placed on the head of the High Priest.  Three items to keep in mind to understand what is happening and what is not happening here.
1. They were not reestablishing the kingdom of Judah.
The "holy land" (2:12) was part of the Persian Empire and fully under that control.  Reestablishing another kingdom would have been viewed as rebellion against the empire and resulted in a swift military reprisal.
2. Joshua was not qualified to be king of Judah.
He was a Levite, a priest, and held the office of High Priest.  One must be of the tribe of Judah in the lineage of David to serve as king.
3. Therefore, this was a ceremonial gesture pointing to the Messiah.
Verses 12-13 are prophetic statements.  The real King is one "whose name is the Branch."  He is a branch of the royal family tree.  Matthew 1:1-"The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham."  This is a clear and certain statement that Jesus has a legal right to be King of the Jews.  The crown was placed in the Temple as a hope-filled reminder.  One day the Messiah will rule and reign from the Temple in Jerusalem.  He will serve as both priest and king, just like the order of Melchizedek.  See Genesis 14 and Hebrews 7.

With all of these encouragements of the blessings God has stored up, the chapter ends with a challenge to "diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God."  What blessings must be waiting for us today?  Let us be diligent in our obedience.

Purity comes before Blessings

Read Zechariah 5.

Throughout the night, the visions kept coming to the prophet concerning God's work in Israel.  The term "day of the LORD" has two aspects: judgment and joy.  The previous three chapters have majored on the good news to come for the nation and two of its leaders.  Chapter 5 focuses on God's dealing with sin in the future.

1. Vision #6: Personal sin shall be judged. (vv.1-4)
There are two particular individual sins named.  We are not told why only these two, but they must have been rampant enough among the people to warrant such mentions of judgment.
-Stealing.  Not only was this a sin, but it specifically violated the eighth commandment (Exodus 20:15).  Taking what does not rightfully belong to us is a sin against God, against the other person(s), and damages our character.  There is no benefit.  A healthy culture depends upon the respect for the property of others.
-Lying.  This seems to indicate falsely swearing.  Perjury, telling a lie under oath, especially in misusing the LORD's name, is condemned in Exodus 20:7.  Mostly this is done for self-protection.  But publicly lying before God and witnesses is nothing but cruel, deliberate harm.  An indicator of a culture's deterioration is the loss of the value of words and their definitions.  "Let no corrupt talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29)

2. Vision #7: National sin shall be removed. (vv.5-11)
Sin is personified as a woman in a basket with a heavy lid.  This is a picture of God loading up all the evil the Jews picked up in exile and escorting it right back to Babylon from which it came.

A key purpose of the Great Tribulation will be the cleansing and preparation of Israel for the Millennial Kingdom.  As foretold in Revelation 17-18, a rebuilt Babylon will be the center of the world's evil.  God's judgment in that day will be decisive and severe.  God's purposes always begin with purity first.  This is true personally and nationally.

3 leadership challenges Answered

Read Zechariah 4.

It had already been a night filled with wonder and the prophet had fallen asleep.  The angel woke him up to deliver Vision #5.  Chapter 3 was a message to Joshua, the High Priest.  Here, God delivered a word for Zerubbabel, the appointed governor of Judah.

Under the encouragement and resources of the Persian Empire, tens of thousands of the Jews in exile returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple.  The governor faced three leadership challenges and needed God's help in overcoming them.
1. Disappointment: The expectation of the people.
No leader wants to disappoint people.  When the foundation was laid and the altar erected, there were mixed reactions of great joy and great weeping.   It saddened a good portion of the people when they realized they would not be able to duplicate the beauty of Solomon's Temple.  See Ezra 3 and Haggai 2.  By comparison, the project seemed to be so much less that it disappointed them.

Their focus was on the physical building rather than the spiritual reasons for its existence.  It was the place to come, to offer their sacrifices and offerings, to be taught, and to worship the presence of the LORD.  What the people needed was hope for the project's completion and the full exercise of their faith.  Such re-casting of the vision would help turn their disappointment into hope-filled anticipation.  "For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice..." (v.10).

2.  Discouragement: The completion of the project.
Few things discourage a leader like delays with no resumption in sight.  Neighboring nations had stirred up opposition to the Jews' return and lodged official complaints, full of false accusations, with the Persian government.  This stopped the construction for some fourteen years.  Most people apparently quit thinking about the project and went to work on their own stuff (Haggai 1).  Would the Temple ever be rebuilt?  If so, when?

God provided promises to encourage him.  “The word of the LORD" was that Zerubbabel would indeed complete the work (v.9).  In fact, he would place the capstone on the Temple (v.7).

3. Development: The motivation of the process.
How will this leader be able to organize and inspire the people to get back to work and finish the job?  Some leaders will utilize force.  Some use the power of their personality.  But God's man doing God's work must depend upon God if anything is to truly honor Him.

Verse 6 is one of the most often quoted verses from Zechariah.
"Not by might (coercion, like the armed forces)
nor by power (personal strength or ability)
but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts."

Without dependence upon the Holy Spirit, the work will prove to only be a temporal accomplishment.  There is no greater power than His.  "Be filled with Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18b) is a command to be obeyed.

We need God

Read 2 Kings 2.

All the prophets in Judah knew that Elijah's ministry had come to a close.  Elisha would become his successor as Judah's leading spiritual prophet.  Elisha closely followed Elijah as he anticipated the moment of transition.  The two traveled eastward to Bethel to Jericho to the Jordan River.  Crossing the river proved to be no problem.  Elijah just rolled up his outer garment and struck the water.  The two of them walked across on dry ground.  This is the second time this miracle occurred.  The first took place in Joshua 3.  Fifty other prophets of God, watching from a distance, witnessed the miracle.

As the mentor prepared to leave, he asked Elisha, "What shall I do for you"?  Elisha wanted a double portion of Elijah's spirit.  Under the Old Testament law, the firstborn could receive a double portion of the inheritance.  But Elisha did not ask for an inheritance of an estate.  He wanted to continue the ministry of Elisha with a double portion of God's power upon him.

Elijah is one of two men in the Bible who do not have a recorded death.  In Genesis 5:24, Enoch "walked with God and was not for God took him".   Many would also include Moses.  However, there are several verses in the Bible that use the word dead or death concerning him.

The confirmation of God's power upon Elisha was not only in witnessing Elijah’s ascension into heaven, but in the actions that followed.  It was not personal power but dependence upon the power of God indicating his spiritual leadership to everyone around him.  Those same fifty prophets watched as Elisha also parted the Jordan River. This marked the third time for this same miracle.

Whenever God is visibly at work, expect the Evil One to also try to counter it or destroy it.  The test came almost immediately.  Young men, not children, treated Elisha with contempt.  This must be interpreted as verbal abuse, making fun of his appearance, but, even more, slandering the work of God and Elisha as a servant of God.

Elisha's question in verse 14 is one for us today.  "Where is the LORD, the God of Elijah?"  This was not asking for God's location.  No.  He anticipated God's intervention!

O what a Day!

Read Zechariah 3.

Among those leading the return of the Jews from Babylon was Zerubbabel, the appointed governor of Jerusalem, and the High Priest, Joshua.  Vision #4 reveals God's plan for the eventual spiritual cleansing and restoration of the Jews when Messiah comes to reign as king.

The rampant and unrepentant sins of Israel and Judah brought their downfall.  Scattering the northern tribes and sending the southern kingdom into exile did not make them perfect.  So, when God's plan to initiate their return began to unfold, Satan himself hurled accusations against the Jews.  One can only imagine the diatribe.  How could God work with such disobedient people?  Since the Jews had forsaken their commitments to the LORD, why should He keep His promises to them?

The name Satan means opponent, adversary, or accuser.  Any purpose or people of God has and will experience this opposition.  It is in fact a non-stop spiritual war.  Revelation 12:10 refers to him as "the accuser of our brothers...who accuses them day and night before our God."  In addition to attacking our weaknesses and failures, he will plot against those who live godly lives.  See Job 1.  But he is a defeated foe and he knows it.  All he can do is to wreak havoc and create questions against the truth.

God rebuked Satan (v.2).  He knows the Jews are not perfect.  He called them "a brand plucked from the fire."  The LORD is in the rescue business.  It is the exercise of His grace that saves people who do not deserve it.  That would include all of us.  Joshua spiritually represented the nation.  As he stood before the LORD, his garments were dirty.  What the LORD rescues, He cleanses.

Beyond the immediate applications of restoring the Jews to their homeland, there are promises of the prophetic restoration of the nation in verses 8-10.
1. "I will bring my servant the Branch,..a single stone with seven eyes." 
Jesus, the Messiah is coming.
"For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)
"Behold the man whose name is the Branch: for he shall branch out from his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD...and shall sit and rule on this throne." (Zechariah 6:12-13)
"Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame." (1 Peter 2:6)

2. "I will remove the iniquity of this land in a single day." 
This looks forward to an eventful occasion when "the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.  And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob; and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.'" (Romans 11:25-27)

3. "Everyone of you will invite his neighbor to come..."
In response, Israel will be the welcoming place for the nations to come to under the umbrella of Messiah's leadership and to worship Jesus on His throne.

5 Messianic prophecies for the Millennium

Read Zechariah 2.

In a single night, God revealed to the prophet eight visions of the future.  Vision #3 is the subject of this entire chapter.  With each revelation the explanation is also presented.

Zechariah saw a man surveying the city of Jerusalem.  Presumably, this had to do with rebuilding the walls that the Babylonians tore down.  However, there is much more to the prophecy than the immediate return of the Jews from captivity and the rebuilding of Jerusalem.  God's own statements point to a yet future time.

"In that day" (v.11), here is what life will be like on earth.
 1. "I will be to her a wall of fire all around." (v.5a)
Jerusalem will not need a wall to protect it.  The LORD Himself will be her protector.  There is also the implication that the population and inclusive area of the city will then exceed the area of the traditional walls.

2. "I will be the glory in her midst." (v.5b)
The presence of God will not be limited to the Holy of Holies in the Temple.  But, His glory will fill the city.

3. "I will shake my hand over" "the nations who plundered you." (vv.8-9)
God sovereignly chose Abraham and his descendants and made unconditional promises to them.  The Jews are "the apple of his eye" and the focus of the LORD's love and attention.  He will execute appropriate judgments against all those who came against Israel and Judah.

4. "I come and will dwell in your midst." (vv.10-11)
These are words from the Messiah.  It is obvious that the details of the context here were not fulfilled in His first coming.  It is the second coming of Christ that will result in singing and rejoicing as "many nations shall join themselves to the LORD in that day."

5. "The LORD will inherit Judah as his portion in the holy land and will again choose Jerusalem." (v.12)
This is the only place the term "holy land" appears in the Bible.  The exact geographical location of what will be the center of the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth is without question in the Scriptures.

What should be our response?  Silence and awe as we consider what will take place.
"Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." (Luke 21:33)

O what a Night!

Read Zechariah 1

In a single night, the LORD gave the prophet Zechariah eight visions of the future.  The purpose of these revelations met two very important needs.  First, the Jews needed hope.  For seventy years Judah lived in Babylonian exile.  Would they ever see their beloved promised land again?  Would God be faithful to the promises He made to Abraham?  The answers were all "Yes!"  And, as with many of the Old Testament prophecies, the more immediate events and the long-range future happenings are told as one.  Still today, we are living in between the fulfillment of many of things foretold in this book.

Second, the people needed to get back to work on the Temple and complete the project.  Some 50,000 had been allowed to return to Jerusalem when the Medes and Persians conquered Babylon.  The reason was not to reestablish their kingdom but to rebuild the Temple.  Because of opposition the work stalled and the people became busy with their own lives.  After about sixteen years, God raised up Haggai and Zechariah to motivate the people.  While Haggai preached priorities, Zechariah spoke of the future, especially as it relates to the coming Messiah.

But no encouragement about God's work or His future plans would be of any benefit to them personally unless their hearts were right with Him.  So, before anything else, God issued a call for repentance.

God's anger and discipline of the nation was due to their sin.  "'Return to me', says the LORD of hosts, 'and I will return to you', says the LORD of hosts." (v.3).  Repentance is not only feeling sorry for one's sin and turning to God.  The same action must include a turning from "your evil ways and your evil deeds" (v.4a).  As mentioned in these opening verses, history proves the veracity of God's word.  His anger at their sin and the ensuing discipline were the responses of a loving LORD who desired to bless them.

There is no need to be confused as to the meaning of these visions.  Each is explained in the context.  This is "word of the LORD" (v.7).
Vision #1-A man on a red horse. (vv.7-17)
The omniscient God and His angels are on patrol throughout the entire earth.  With the seventy years of exile at an end and the Persian Empire experiencing peace, it provided a good opportunity for the Jews to go back home.  With that came God's "gracious and comforting words" (v.13).  The LORD was angry with those nations who had mistreated His people and at the same time had multiple blessings in store for the Jews.

Vision #2-Four horns and four craftsmen. (vv.18-21)
Specifically, God's anger was focused on the four Gentile powers that scattered Israel, exiled Judah, and destroyed Jerusalem (v.19).

For today, we need not be discouraged by the evil in this world.  God sees, knows, controls what is happening.  His love, His word, and His plans for our lives are eternally secure in Christ.

4 encouragements to those who serve God

Read Haggai 2.

The nation had lived in exile for seventy years.  When the people saw the re-construction of the Temple, there were two strong reactions.  For those who were born in Babylon and only heard about the Temple, this was a glorious day.  But those who remembered Solomon's masterpiece wept.  This place would never be like it was.  Ezra 3:11-13 describes the scene.

This could have been a divisive moment of discouragement among the people and even could have potentially caused the work to suffer.  Would God be pleased that they could not replicate the original Temple's appearance?

So, God stepped in to give Haggai a series of encouraging messages.
1.  "Be strong...for I am with you...My Spirit remains in your midst...fear not." (vv.4-5)
As the LORD reminded Samuel, "...man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)  God knew they lacked the resources to do what Solomon did.  Indeed, He is the owner of all resources (v.8).  Humans are only the managers of what the LORD allows us to have for a time.  Therefore, "...it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have" (2 Corinthians 8:12).

The most vital ingredient that determines corporate worship is not the beauty of the building but the presence of God in the place!

2. "The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former." (vv.6-9)
God has a plan that is far greater than they could have ever imagined.  This is a promise of a still future Temple that will outdo what Solomon built.  In the Millennial Kingdom, God's glory will fill that Temple!  It will come after horrendous worldwide turmoil.  Twice in this chapter God promises to "shake" (literally to undulate) the heavens and the earth.  After waves of judgments during the Great Tribulation, as described in Revelation 6-19, Jesus will rule and reign from that future place.

3. "But from this day on I will bless you." (vv.10-19)
Two things prompted the blessings of God.  First, the people responded to the message of chapter one in making God's house a priority with their time and money.  Second, their sacrifices and offerings were clean, or holy, as it reflected a heart right with God.

4. "O Zerubbabel...I will make you a signet ring..." (vv.20-23)
Zerubbabel served God as the governor of Judah, overseeing the building of this temple.  The signet ring was an indication of royalty.  This man was a descendant of King David.  A part of his earthly reward is recorded in Matthew 1:13.  He is listed in the very lineage of Messiah!

The LORD takes note of our faithfulness and rewards those who serve Him.  "For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do." (Hebrews 6:10)

5 results when putting God First

Haggai 1.

When the Medes and Persians conquered Babylonia, Cyrus became the ruler of the Empire.  In 2 Chronicles 36:22-23, he acknowledged that "the LORD God of heaven has given me all the kingdoms of the earth."  Then, he encouraged the captive Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.  About 50,000 people left under the leadership of Zerubbabel, the governor, Joshua, the High Priest, and some teaching priests led by Ezra.

As the work began, local opposition and political changes in the Empire resulted in a delay in completing the Temple.  The project sat idle for some fourteen years.  To motivate the people to get back to the reason God sent them there, the LORD delivered His messages through two writing prophets.  Zechariah spoke of finishing the Temple in preparation for the coming Messiah.  Haggai preached a short, sharp, direct message concerning their priorities.

God demands to be first and foremost in every area of life.  That requires each individual to know their assignment and why God placed them where they are at this point of time.  Haggai's message reveals that instead of putting God first in their use of time and money, they spent both on themselves.  This displeased God to the point of withholding His blessings and provisions for them (vv.9-11).

This is very similar to Malachi's writing concerning the obedience of tithing.  "Bring the full tithe into my storehouse, that there may be food in my house.  And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.  I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it will not destroy the fruits of your soil, and your vine in the field shall not fail to bear, says the LORD of Hosts."  (Malachi 3:10-11)

When the people heard the message, five things happened (vv.12-15).
1. They obeyed and went back to work on their priority assignment.
2. They feared the LORD and the potential consequences of disobeying Him.
3. God assured them of His personal presence.
4. God stirred up the spirit of (or gave energy to) all involved.
5. The project was underway.

Lesson learned:  God does not want our leftovers.  "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce..." (Proverbs 3:9)  "...that in everything he might be preeminent." (Colossians 1:18c).

The joy is Coming!

Read Zephaniah 3.

The day of the LORD refers to God's judgment on this earth during the second half of the Great Tribulation and the great joy that will follow during the earthly Millennial Kingdom.  After two chapters of judgment upon the world, the Holy Spirit gave Zephaniah five insights into that 1000-year reign of Christ.

1. Jesus will restore the nations. (vv.9-10)
Morally and spiritually the world will be changed.  No more speaking against God or cursing Him.  All speech and behaviors will be pure as the people make their way to Jerusalem where Jesus will be sitting on the throne.

2. Jesus will redeem Israel. (vv.11-13)
All that Jeremiah 31 promised in the New Covenant will become a reality for Israel.  Their sins will be forgiven and Jerusalem will truly be a Holy City at peace.  This will not be the result of international negotiations, but, as Revelation 19 explains, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Prince of Peace will put down and destroy all those who oppose Him.

3. Jesus will cause Israel to rejoice. (v.14)
Singing will replace shooting.  Israel will be shouting praises to Jesus.  They will be rejoicing and celebrating their salvation in the Messiah.

4. Jesus will rule from Jerusalem. (vv.15-17)
His presence will remove all judgments and threats against the Jews and they will live without fear in the land.

5. Jesus will restore the fortunes of Israel. (vv.18-20)
Seven times in these verses God states "I will."  First, He will gather them.  Next, He will change them from being despised in the world to being praised.  Then, they will see His power as He gives back to them all that had been lost, taken from them, and/or withheld.

As believers in Jesus, we, who are not Jews but grafted into the family of God by faith, will witness these events and more as we rejoice with them in that day.

Keeping the faith in the bad Times

Read Zephaniah 2.

The devastation during the coming "day of the LORD" will be global; "all the lands of the nations" (v.11b).    Zephaniah's message includes both near-term and the ultimate earthly judgments of God.

God's anger will be displayed in all four directions.
-To the west (vv.4-6): Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Ekron.  These were the coastal cities occupied primarily by the Philistines.
-To the east (vv.8-9): Moab and Ammon.  These were descendants of Lot from incest after the rescue from Sodom.  Interestingly, their judgment is compared to Sodom and Gomorrah.
-To the south (v.12): The people of Cush were descendants of Ham.  They became the Ethiopians and controlled the lands south of Judah, including Egypt.
-To the north (vv.13-15): Assyria.  The capital city of Nineveh was considered impenetrable.  But their pride went far beyond physical defense.  "I am and there is no one else" (v.15b).  Their sense that they were untouchable by man or God would result in their downfall.

Three insights for our faith:
1. God has hope for the future.
The second part of "the day of the LORD" will bring hope and restoration.
"For the LORD their God will be mindful of them and restore their fortunes." (v.7b)
No matter how awful things become in this world, God's plans for His earthly kingdom and our eternal home will unfold right on time.

2. God sees and hears our circumstances. (v.8)
"I have heard the taunts...and the revilings...how they have taunted my people and made boasts against their territory."  Every generation has had those who stated goal was/is to annihilate the Jews and drive them from their God-promised land.  The LORD has heard every word and will respond accordingly.  That is not only true of the Jews but equally applies to Christians under persecution.  "The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry" (Psalm 34:15).

3. God will be honored by every person. (v.11)
"...to him shall bow down."  People may now claim to have their own beliefs but in that day the exclusive worship of the LORD will be seen.  "So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:8-9)

His invitation in verse 3 is simple.  Life-change is evident in three areas:
Seek the LORD-upward
Seek righteousness-outward
Seek humility-inward

The cause and cure of God's coming Judgment

Read Zephaniah 1.

The Holy Spirit revealed to Zephaniah a vision concerning "the day of the LORD."  The phrase is used 20 times in these 53 verses.  It refers to both the future judgment and the future blessings God has in store.  This prophecy majors on judgment.

Immediately, the message proclaims worldwide punishment on everything (vv.2-3).  Pointedly, Judah and the capital of Jerusalem will be among the targets.  This indicates that the prophecy blends the impending invasion by Babylon and the ultimate judgment of God on the earth.  Often, the prophets' visions of the events to come were joined and not separated by time, as is the actual case

The Apostle Peter wrote of the earth's judgment as still future.  "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed." (2 Peter 3:10)

What is the root cause of such a horrific future?
"Because they sinned against the LORD" (v.17b).  It is the sin of "those who have turned back from following the LORD who do not seek the LORD or inquire of him."  Instead of seeking and worshiping God, people have turned away from Him to their own devices.  Verses 4-5 provide just a few examples: Baal worship, following idolatrous spiritual leaders, looking to the planets and stars for guidance, and the Ammonite god Milcom (Molech).

What is a common response to God's announced judgment?
"The LORD will not do good nor will he do ill." (v.12b)  In other words, they do not believe God cares about their beliefs or behaviors.  They willfully ignore the plain statements of God's words to them.  His warnings do not prompt them to change the spiritual direction of their lives.

Jesus taught the same messages of warning.
"The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace.  In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 13:41-42)

"Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken." (Matthew 24:29)

What is the only hope?
"Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains of him." (John 3:36)

When our prayers are not answered as we Imagined

Read Habakkuk 3.

The prophet wanted to know why God was not responding to the sin in Judah.  God answered by saying that He had prepared the Babylonians to come and mete out His discipline.  That is not what Habakkuk wanted to hear.  He presented his complaints to God and waited.  In chapter two God answered the prophet a second time in clear and no uncertain terms.

God's powerful plan for Judah's captivity by a foreign nation scared Habakkuk (3:1).  His whole body trembled at God's words (3:16).  But, under the inspiration and movement of the Holy Spirit, Habakkuk wrote chapter three as a song of prayer.  It tells us what he learned and of his faith commitments as he faced the future.

1. Prayer Requests (v.2)
Though the title of this chapter is a prayer, there are only two requests:
-He asked that God display a refreshing of His people in the middle of this adversity.
-He asked that God display mercy during this time of discipline.

2. Powerful Reminders (vv.3-15)
-Who God is.  The LORD is God Almighty.  All nature and nations are in His control and do His bidding at His command.  As Israel witnessed in the Exodus, God needed no assistance in defeating the entire Egyptian army.  The same would be true of the Babylonians.
-Why God acts.  In verse 13, there are two reasons for His intervention.  First, He is preserving the nation of Israel.  This temporary discipline was part of His long-range plan of fulfilling the unconditional covenant made with Abraham and his descendants.
Second, He is preserving the lineage of the Messiah who will ultimately redeem His people and restore them to world prominence when He rules and reigns from Jerusalem.

3. Praise Commitments (vv.16-19)
Again, the true awesomeness of God shook Habakkuk emotionally and physically.  Spiritually, however, the prophet was refreshed.  He announced two faith-commitments that changed his attitude and his life.
-"Yet I will quietly wait for the day of trouble to come..."  He knew what would happen and his commitment was to not to panic or fret.  He could quietly wait because he also knew God was in charge.  His prayer from chapter one was being answered but not in the way he imagined.
-"Yet I will rejoice in the LORD..."  This is not an emotional celebration because it is a happy occasion, but this rejoicing is an act of the will.  It is a choice to trust God through tough times, knowing one is in the center of His will.  As Nehemiah encouraged the people, "And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10b)

God's response to those who question Him

Read Habakkuk 2.

The prophet complained and then tried to argue with God.  He appeared so confident in taking a stance and waiting to see how the LORD would respond to his logic.  God responded as forthrightly as possible.  "Write this down!," He ordered, so it could be clearly communicated.

Having gained the prophet's attention and with pen in hand, God unfolded His plan.  Indeed, the Babylonians were wicked.  They were greedy, evil, violent, pride-filled, given to drunkenness, and idolaters.  The LORD did not overlook one of their sins.  In His time, He will judge that empire.  But, in the meantime, God’s people needed some national discipline.

Three insights we all need to learn from verses 2-4:
1. God wants everyone to know what He has revealed.
"The vision" is the Word of God that He revealed and, therefore, is totally reliable and without error.  As the Apostle Peter explained, "...we did not follow cleverly devised myths...no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 2:16, 21).  We have in writing and, thankfully, in our own language exactly what God wants us to know.

2. God acts on His time schedule, not ours.
He will not be late in carrying out His plans.  All will be fulfilled.  Those who love God need not be discouraged about the sin in this world and the difficulties in this life.  Solomon wrote: "He has made everything beautiful in its time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

3. Our response to God's plan and timing is to trust Him.
It may seem that the wicked get away with their sin and ungodly behaviors.  But those who know the LORD see beyond the current circumstances and look to the One who is control of all things.  He is worthy of our trust.  He is ever faithful.  In great contrast to the world around us, "the righteous shall live by his faith" (v.4).

The plan of God also looks forward to a day when every wrong will be made right.  In that day, when Jesus rules and reigns in the Millennial Kingdom, "the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea" (v.14).  So, let the idolaters cease crying out to their made-up objects of worship and life-guidance, and stop complaining or questioning God.  The LORD is in control, "in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him" (v.20).

Why doesn't God do something?

Read Habakkuk 1.

This is the only book in the Bible where the prophet initiates the message.  Habakkuk was frustrated.  Everywhere he looked in Judah all he could see was sin and injustice.  He complained directly to God, "Why aren't you doing something about the sin in this nation?"  He falsely assumed that God was somehow idle or ignoring the blatant wrong-doing.

In verses 5-11, we have the response.  God had all along been preparing to activate His plan for Judah.  In verse 5, God explained why He did not reveal His intentions to Habakkuk.  The prophet would neither believe it, nor would he like it.  The LORD empowered the Babylonians to conquer the Assyrians.  With their rise to world power, Judah would be the next Babylonian target.  God's plan was to use that wicked, violent, ungodly empire to discipline His people.

As predicted, this was not what Habakkuk wanted to hear at all.  He reacted with what he thought were two strong, irrefutable arguments:
1. God is too holy to use sinners to accomplish His work. (v.13a)
2. Judah was more righteous than the Babylonians. (v.13b)
With that, the prophet seems to smugly believe that he had God cornered and in 2:1, he said, "I will take my stand" and wait to see how God will answer now.

Three insights for us to know about the sovereignty of God:
1. God is always active fulfilling His plans for individuals and nations.
"'I am the Alpha and Omega," says the Lord God, 'who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.'" (Revelation 1:8)  He eternally knows and controls the beginning and the end of all things.

2. God can use anyone to accomplish His will.
"Surely the wrath of man shall praise you." (Psalm 76:10)

3. God’s decisions regarding His plans become tests of our faith.
If we could see the future, we probably would react a lot like Habakkuk.  There would be things we would not like or want to hear.  Trusting the steadfast love of God in the uncertainty of life and the hardships that come is the essence of living by faith.  God will teach the prophet this in the next chapter.  "But the righteous shall live by his faith." (Habakkuk 2:4b)