What does "the word of the LORD of Hosts came to me" signify?

Setting the Scene

- The phrase is found repeatedly in the prophets (e.g., Zechariah 7:4; Haggai 1:13; Jeremiah 46:1).

- Each time, it introduces a prophetic message that carries divine, not human, authority.

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Meaning of “the word”

- “Word” (Hebrew dābār) speaks of an actual, specific communication from God.

- It is not a vague impression; it is the precise content God wants conveyed (cf. Isaiah 55:11).

- Scripture underscores its power: “For the word of God is living and active…” (Hebrews 4:12).

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Title “LORD of Hosts”

- “LORD” (YHWH) is God’s covenant name, stressing His faithfulness.

- “of Hosts” (ṣəḇāʾōṯ) pictures Him as Commander of angelic armies.

• It highlights omnipotence (1 Samuel 17:45).

• It reassures that He can accomplish what His word declares (Jeremiah 32:17).

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Personal Encounter: “came to me”

- Indicates direct revelation to the prophet.

- Shows that God initiates; the prophet is the recipient, not the originator (2 Peter 1:21).

- Confirms individual accountability: the prophet must faithfully relay exactly what was received (Jeremiah 1:7).

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Why the Phrase Matters

- Authenticates the message as infallible, resting on God’s own character.

- Demands response: hearers are expected to obey, not debate (James 1:22).

- Provides comfort: the Sovereign LORD who commands hosts personally speaks into history and to individuals.

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Living It Out

- Treat Scripture with the same seriousness; it is still “the word of the LORD” (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

- Trust its promises, knowing they come from the Commander of all powers.

- Obey promptly, just as the prophets were expected to speak promptly.