What is the meaning of Zechariah 7:2? Now • A simple word that anchors the scene at a real moment in history—the fourth year of King Darius (Zechariah 7:1). • Scripture often uses “now” to shift from vision to application (cf. Haggai 1:1; Ezra 6:14), reminding us that God’s revelations move us toward immediate obedience. • The prophet is transitioning from night visions (chapters 1–6) to practical issues for daily life, showing that God’s Word speaks to both the spectacular and the ordinary. The people of Bethel • Bethel, once a place where Jacob met God (Genesis 28:19), had fallen into idolatry under Jeroboam I (1 Kings 12:28–29) and suffered judgment (2 Kings 17:28–29). • These returning exiles are reclaiming their spiritual heritage, much like how God promises to restore ruins (Amos 9:11–15). • Their united action mirrors earlier corporate cries for mercy (Judges 20:26), underscoring the blessing when a community seeks the Lord together. Had sent • A deliberate choice—an act of faith that echoes Israel’s practice of sending messengers to seek prophetic counsel (2 Chronicles 17:7–9; 2 Kings 22:12–13). • It reflects humility: instead of deciding for themselves, they consult God’s appointed voices (Proverbs 11:14). • Sending also conveys urgency; like the centurion who “sent” elders to Jesus (Luke 7:3), they believe answers lie with the Lord. Sharezer and Regem-melech • Named representatives show accountability; they cannot return with vague impressions. • Scripture often spotlights individual envoys to highlight personal responsibility within corporate missions (Ezra 8:16–18; 2 Samuel 10:1–2). • Their presence reminds us that God uses ordinary people with real names and stories to advance His purposes (Romans 16:1–15). Along with their men • A support team travels with the spokesmen, emphasizing shared burden (Numbers 11:16–17). • Multiplying witnesses safeguards the accuracy of the report (Deuteronomy 19:15). • Together they illustrate the body working in harmony, much like the New-Testament church sending Barnabas and Paul with companions (Acts 15:22). To plead before the LORD • “Plead” pictures earnest entreaty—seeking God’s favor much as Moses did after the golden calf (Exodus 32:11–13) and Hannah in her barrenness (1 Samuel 1:11). • They approach “before the LORD,” not merely before human leaders, echoing David’s resolve: “Your face, O LORD, I will seek” (Psalm 27:8). • Their petition concerns whether to continue the self-imposed fasts of exile (Zechariah 7:3), a question about genuine repentance versus empty ritual—anticipating God’s call in Zechariah 7:9–10 for justice, mercy, and compassion. summary Zechariah 7:2 captures a faithful remnant taking concrete steps to know God’s will. In real time (“Now”), a revived community (“the people of Bethel”) chooses dependence (“had sent”) through accountable leaders (“Sharezer and Regem-melech”) backed by witnesses (“along with their men”) with one goal: “to plead before the LORD.” Their example encourages us to seek God’s face earnestly, involve the body, and let every question drive us not to ritual but to a living relationship with the Lord who answers. |
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