In our Midweeks and Grow Groups this Autumn we will be studying the book of Zechariah and we’re covering it again in our reading notes in preparation.

This prophesy begins about 20 years after the Jews returned to Jerusalem from their 70 years of exile in Babylon. As yet the temple has not been rebuilt and encouraging this to happen will be a common focus in Zechariah’s prophesy (v16).

Zechariah begins by warning of the danger of repeating the sins of their forefathers which ended in their captivity (v1-6). For them and for us there is this constant call to repent of all sin, to have a change of heart towards sin.

Zechariah has a vision of four horse men (v7-11). These are sent out to patrol the earth on behalf of the Lord (v10). This is not a world of chance but one under God’s rule. The Lord speaks of how it was now time, after the period of judgment, for Him to restore His people and their prosperity (v14-17).

The next vision of the four horns and craftsmen (v18-21) speaks of this also. In these visions we’re not to work out every detail but rather grasp the main message which is about encouraging God’s people in faith and obedience even a world where much appears uncertain.