Even those far away will come and build the temple of the LORD, and you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent Me to you. This will happen if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God." Even those far away will come and build the temple of the LORD,This phrase indicates the inclusion of Gentiles and Jews from the diaspora in the rebuilding of the temple, symbolizing the universal scope of God's plan. Historically, the return of exiles from Babylon and other regions to Jerusalem was a significant event, fulfilling prophecies of restoration. This also foreshadows the New Testament concept of the spiritual temple, the Church, where believers from all nations are united in Christ (Ephesians 2:19-22). Eph 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away… and you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent Me to you. This statement emphasizes the divine authority and mission of the speaker, often interpreted as a messianic figure or a prophetic voice. The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's sovereignty and power. The fulfillment of the prophecy serves as a sign of God's faithfulness and the legitimacy of the messenger, paralleling the New Testament affirmation of Jesus' divine mission (John 17:3). Num 16:28 Then Moses said, “This is how you will know”… This will happen if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” The conditional nature of this promise highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. In the historical context, the Israelites' return and the temple's reconstruction depended on their faithfulness to the covenant. This reflects the broader biblical theme that blessings and fulfillment of God's promises are often contingent upon human response (Deuteronomy 28). It also points to the New Testament teaching on the necessity of obedience in the life of a believer (James 1:22-25). Deu 28:1-2 Now if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God… Persons / Places / Events 1. ZechariahA prophet who received visions and messages from God, encouraging the Israelites during the post-exilic period. 2. The Temple of the LORD The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people. 3. Those Far Away Likely referring to the exiles or Gentiles who would come to assist in the rebuilding of the temple, indicating a future inclusion of the nations. 4. The LORD of Hosts A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies. 5. Obedience to God A recurring theme in the prophetic books, highlighting the importance of following God's commands for His promises to be fulfilled. Teaching Points The Universality of God's PlanGod's plan includes people from all nations, emphasizing the global scope of His redemptive work. The Importance of Obedience The fulfillment of God's promises is often contingent upon our obedience, highlighting the need for faithful living. The Role of the Community in God's Work Building the temple was a communal effort, reminding us of the importance of working together in the body of Christ. God's Sovereignty and Assurance The phrase "you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent Me to you" assures us of God's control and the certainty of His promises. The Future Glory of God's Dwelling The rebuilding of the temple points to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ and the church, where God's presence dwells among His people. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the involvement of "those far away" in building the temple reflect God's inclusive plan for salvation?2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to God's voice in our daily lives? 3. How does the concept of the temple in Zechariah relate to the New Testament understanding of the church as the body of Christ? 4. What are some practical ways we can contribute to building up the "temple" in our local church community? 5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in Zechariah 6:15 provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty? Connections to Other Scriptures Isaiah 2:2-3This passage speaks of all nations streaming to the mountain of the LORD, which parallels the idea of those far away coming to help build the temple. Haggai 2:7-9 Haggai prophesies about the glory of the latter temple being greater than the former, which connects to the rebuilding efforts and the involvement of the nations. Ephesians 2:19-22 Paul describes the church as a holy temple built together by Jews and Gentiles, reflecting the inclusive vision seen in Zechariah. John 14:23 Jesus speaks about making His home with those who love Him and obey His teaching, echoing the conditional promise of God's presence in Zechariah.
People Heldai, Helem, Hen, Jedaiah, Jehozadak, Josedech, Joshua, Josiah, Tobijah, Zechariah, Zephaniah, ZerubbabelPlaces Babylon, Jerusalem, ShinarTopics Almighty, Armies, Build, Builders, Built, Certainly, Clear, Completely, Diligently, Far-off, Hearken, Hosts, Obey, Pass, Temple, Voice, YeaDictionary of Bible Themes Zechariah 6:15 5619 measures, distance and area Library The Priest of the World and King of Men'He shall build the Temple of the Lord ... and He shall be a Priest upon His throne.'--ZECHARIAH vi. 13. A handful of feeble exiles had come back from their Captivity. 'The holy and beautiful house' where their fathers praised Him was burned with fire. There was no king among them, but they still possessed a representative of the priesthood, the other great office of divine appointment. Their first care was to rear some poor copy of the Temple; and the usual difficulties that attend reconstruction … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Christ Glorified as the Builder of his Church The Allegory of Melchizedek. The Ascension Solomon's Temple Spiritualized The King --Continued. Questions. Peace Zechariah Links Zechariah 6:15 NIVZechariah 6:15 NLT Zechariah 6:15 ESV Zechariah 6:15 NASB Zechariah 6:15 KJV Zechariah 6:15 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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