Sun, Dec 11, 2022
Zechariah saw into the future. In his final two oracles (9-11; 12-14), he envisions God's victory over the nations, judgment of bad leaders, elimination of idols, and restoration of Jerusalem where God's people and the nations would worship. Central to these visions were glimpses of a messianic figure: priestly, humble, pastoral, and pierced. This figure came later, not sooner, in the first coming of Jesus Christ. Zechariah's words provided a script for his life. As his followers, we wait for his second coming. Indeed, we live for later.
Sun, Dec 04, 2022
Duration: 49 mins 39 secs
Zechariah responds to an earnest question about fasting with four words from the LORD. He warns his people against simply going through the motions. Rather than faking their faith, they should show sincerity, practice justice, keep building, and seek God. Fasting had become an automated response, rather than a sign of real remorse. Moreover, fasting robbed them of the joyful anticipation of God's return. Whether we fasting or feasting, the people of God must keep moving forward.
Sun, Nov 27, 2022
Duration: 41 mins 56 secs
We see evil all around us. We see it if we look within us. Evil is pervasive. But it does have a divine expiration date. Zechariah learns in his final three visions that God will take care of evil. He will banish it, cover it, prevent it from taking over the earth. He is in control. This is encouraging news to Zechariah and should be for us.
Sun, Nov 13, 2022
In Zechariah's second and third visions, God shows the prophet the future of Jerusalem. The old days of displacement will be replaced with a new day of worship. God will open the city's gates, widen its borders, and welcome worshippers from all directions. More importantly, God will remove Israel's enemies, her guilt, and dwell in her midst. This is the way God works: old losses are fertile grounds for new beginnings.
Sun, Nov 06, 2022
Duration: 41 mins 14 secs
Zechariah opens his book with an invitation: Return to God. His summons home depicts God as merciful, compassionate, and longsuffering. The portrait frames the remainder of the book, full of visions and oracles. From the outset, Zechariah sees God on the move. His protection is real: he patrols the earth. His promises will prevail: he will rebuild Jerusalem. Thus, God's reliability and activity should inspire his people to get unstuck and make a move.
Sun, Oct 30, 2022
Duration: 39 mins 52 secs
Zephaniah looks forward. Way forward. He describes God's coming kingdom on some far-off day. It will be a fearless future: no more lies, pride, shame, or false worship. It will be a festive future: God's joyful presence will be palpable. The imagery is inviting and inspired. It should give us hope for our fearless and festive future.
Sun, Oct 23, 2022
Duration: 42 mins 45 secs
In the Information Age, we do not have to look far to see people failing. Politicians lie. Athletes cheat. Actors abuse. CEOs intimidate. And it's not just THOSE leaders in the world who are guilty. Abuse, scandal, and deception dwell within the church. Every month another spiritual leader falls from grace. We can wag our fingers, shake our heads, and join the chorus of critics. Or we can look inward at our own wayward hearts. We too walk a perilous path. We must check it for pitfalls.
Sun, Oct 16, 2022
Duration: 42 mins 47 secs
God is not fond of our tendency toward idolatry, indifference, and independence. He wants people who worship in earnest, whose lives are surrendered to him. Sadly, throughout history his people have chosen their own way. This is the case in Zephaniah's day. The prophet gave the people a wake up call. The church may need one, as well. We are no less prone to idolatry, indifference, and independence. Today is an opportunity to come out of hiding.
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