This introduction to the book of Zechariah, given by pastor Barry Forder, was recorded on 1st May 2022 at Calvary Portsmouth.
Israel had returned from Babylon in 537 B.C. following the decree of Cyrus to allow them to return home. 19 years later the prophet Haggai stepped onto the scene and declared “Consider your ways”! In just a few months the heart of the people had changed from one of fear to one of boldness and the foundation of the Temple, that by then had lain in ruins for 89 years, was started.
Two months after Haggai started to preach, another young jewish man, in his mid to late teens, part of the new generation of Jews born in the land, stood up to reveal a series of 8 visions God had given him in one night. These visions were so profound they challenge world governments and the religious establishment even to this day.
As we begin a journey though this incredible book, we will have unveiled, the history and future of the nation of Israel from their return from Babylon, to the first coming of Messiah, and then to the second coming of Messiah. We will see God’s verdict pronounced on the gentile nations of this world for their mistreatment of Israel, and God’s ultimate plan to bless the family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob when the LORD God Himself will rule over the whole earth from Jerusalem.
In the opening verse of chapter 1 we are given a brief genealogy of Zechariah: “the word of the LORD unto Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo the prophet”.
There are no meaningless details in the Bible, and this opening statement is an example of that fact, for in this list of names are a statement that sets the tone for the whole of this book.
- Zechariah = “Whom Yahweh Remembers.”
- Son of Berechiah = “Yahweh Blesses.”
- Son of Iddo = “The Appointed Time.”
This book of Zechariah is the account of a God who remembers, and who blesses His people at the appointed time!
May you be blessed and encouraged as we journey through this book.
