Introduction: In Zechariah 6, we see a vision of four chariots emerging from between two bronze mountains, symbolizing God’s divine judgment and the establishment of His kingdom. The chapter ends with a symbolic crowning of Joshua, the high priest, foreshadowing the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. This outline of Zechariah 6 will delve into the importance of each verse and how it relates to the greater topic of judgment, redemption, and the Messiah’s reign.
I. Zechariah 6:1-3 – The Vision of the Four Chariots
The prophet Zechariah sees a vision of four chariots pulled by different colored horses, emerging from between two bronze mountains. These chariots represent the four spirits of heaven, sent out by God to patrol the earth (Revelation 6:1-8). The colors of the horses – red, black, white, and grisled or dappled – may symbolize various aspects of God’s judgment, such as war, famine, victory, and pestilence.
II. Zechariah 6:4-8 – The Mission of the Chariots
Zechariah asks for an explanation of the vision, and the interpreting angel reveals the chariots’ mission to patrol the earth. The chariots are vessels of God’s judgment, sent to carry out His will upon the nations. The north country, representing Babylon, receives particular attention as a place of past captivity for God’s people (Jeremiah 1:14-15). The chariots’ patrol shows God’s sovereignty and His active involvement in world affairs.
III. Zechariah 6:9-11 – The Crowning of Joshua
The LORD instructs Zechariah to take silver and gold to make a crown for Joshua, the high priest. This act is symbolic in nature, as the high priest was not typically a king. However, it points to the future Messiah, who would be both King and Priest (Psalm 110:4). The crowning of Joshua foreshadows the king of kings and lord of lords, Jesus Christ, who would fulfill both roles perfectly.
IV. Zechariah 6:12-13 – The Branch and His Reign
The LORD declares that the Branch, a title for the Messiah (Isaiah 11:1), will build the temple of the LORD and rule on His throne. This prophecy points to Jesus Christ, who would establish a spiritual temple, the church (Ephesians 2:19-22), and reign eternally as King of kings (Revelation 19:16). The Branch’s, or Jesus has two roles as both builder and ruler point to the all encompassing nature of the Messiah’s work.
V. Zechariah 6:14-15 – The Crowns and Obedience
The crowns made for Joshua are to be kept as a memorial, reminding the people of the promised Messiah. These final verses are a call to obedience, stating that those who are far off will come and help build the temple of the LORD. This brings to mind the call of the gospel, inviting all nations to be a part of God’s kingdom (Matthew 28:19).
Conclusion: Zechariah 6 presents a powerful vision of God’s judgment and the establishment of His future earthly kingdom through the Messiah. The four chariots symbolize God’s sovereign control over the nations, while the crowning of Joshua foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King, and Priest. The Branch’s role in building the temple and reigning on the throne highlights the comprehensive nature of the Messiah’s work. This chapter calls believers to obedience and participation in God’s kingdom, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ’s eternal reign.
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