What is the meaning of Zechariah 4:6? So he said to me “So he said to me,” (Zechariah 4:6a) • Zechariah is recounting a direct prophetic conversation. • Prophetic messages in Scripture are personal and precise (cf. Zechariah 1:1; Jeremiah 1:9). • The phrase confirms that what follows is not Zechariah’s opinion but revelation, anchoring the whole vision in divine authority (cf. Revelation 1:1). This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel:” (v. 6b) • Zerubbabel, governor of Judah (Haggai 1:1; Ezra 5:2), carries the enormous responsibility of rebuilding the temple amid political opposition (Ezra 4:4-5). • “Word of the LORD” signals an unchanging divine directive, echoing similar commissions given to Moses (Exodus 3:14-15) and Joshua (Joshua 1:1-9). • God speaks to leaders not merely for their benefit but for the encouragement of the entire community (Haggai 2:4-5). Not by might nor by power, “Not by might nor by power,” (v. 6c) • “Might” points to collective strength—armies, wealth, alliances (Psalm 33:16-17). • “Power” highlights individual capability—skill, influence, charisma (Isaiah 31:1). • God refutes both avenues as sufficient to accomplish His purposes, recalling Gideon’s reduced army (Judges 7) and David’s victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-47). • Human resources, however impressive, are never the decisive factor in kingdom work (2 Chronicles 32:7-8). but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts. “but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts.” (v. 6d) • The Spirit’s empowerment ensures success where human effort cannot (Isaiah 40:29-31). • “LORD of Hosts” underscores God’s command over heavenly armies, guaranteeing inexhaustible backing (Psalm 46:7). • Old-covenant example: the cloud of glory guiding Israel (Exodus 40:34-38). • New-covenant fulfillment: the Spirit indwelling believers for witness and service (Acts 1:8; Romans 8:11; Ephesians 3:16). • For Zerubbabel, this promise meant the temple would rise despite political turbulence (Ezra 6:14-15; Zechariah 4:9). summary Zechariah 4:6 assures Zerubbabel—and every believer—that God’s work is achieved not through human muscle or ingenuity but through the unstoppable power of His Spirit. When He commissions, He supplies. Our role is obedient reliance; His Spirit supplies the victory. |
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