Freedom Christian Center Bible Studies
Digging Deep into the Word of God
The Book of Zechariah – November 14, 2023

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Background: Zechariah is one of the Prophetic books of the Bible. Zechariah was one of the three prophets to minister after the return from Babylon, along with Haggai and Malachi. The book of Zechariah is one of the prophetic writings that highlight the Person and Work of Christ. This Christ-centered book is quoted about 40 times in the New Testament. Zechariah 1:1 and Haggai 2 reveal that Zechariah delivered his first message two months after Haggai began his ministry, between Haggai's second and third messages. Zachariah took over the public ministry of the older Haggai to encourage the remnant by focusing their attention on the Glory of God.

In eight visions using symbolic language, Zechariah prophesized about the overthrow of Gentile world powers, the judgment of apostate Jews, the cleaning, restoration, and Jerusalem's future glory and prosperity. The first five visions are messages of grace, and the last three are of judgment. The prophecy took place in Jerusalem, the site of the rebuilt Temple.

Messianic Prophecies:
Christ's entry into Jerusalem (9:9); Christ's betrayal for thirty pieces of silver (11:12); Christ's death as the stricken Shephard (13:7); Christ coming again to Mount Olives (14:4); and Christ's Millennial Reign (14:9)

Authorship:
The author of the book is Zachariah. The meaning of his name is Jehovah Remembers. This prophet and priest was probably born in Babylon during the exile. Nehemiah (12:4,16) mentions his arrival in Jerusalem. Ezra ((5:1; 6:14) mentions his ministry.

Central Message:
To encourage the people of God to continue to rebuild and complete the Temple of God.
To announce God's prophetic program concerning the Gentiles, the blessings of the millennial age, and the events leading to the millennial.

Themes:
Turn ye unto me, saith the Lord of Hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the Lord of Hosts (Zachariah 1:3) The Glory of the Lord