The Night Visions

Pastor Martin Saine continues through Zechariah Chapter 1 - Part 3

The night visions of Zechariah begin with blessings for Israel, offering hope for the future. After the call to repentance, Zechariah has a vision of a man on a red horse, symbolizing war, standing among myrtle trees (Israel). This man is identified as "The Angel of the Lord," a Christophany (pre-incarnate appearance of Christ). Behind Him are other riders on red, white, and sorrel horses, representing different aspects of war, victory, and mixed consequences.

These riders report that the earth is at rest, which provokes a surprising reaction from the Angel of the Lord. He intercedes for Jerusalem, asking God how long His anger will last. God responds with comforting words, expressing His zeal for Jerusalem and anger towards the nations that went beyond their divine mandate of judgment against Israel.

The Lord promises to return to Jerusalem with mercy, rebuild the temple, and expand the city's prosperity. Four key declarations of comfort are:
1. The Messiah will come to Jerusalem.
2. The temple will be rebuilt.
3. Jerusalem's borders will expand.
4. God will once again comfort and choose Jerusalem.

This passage emphasizes God's zealous love for His people, His anger towards the nations who abused them, and the future blessings of restoration and prosperity for Jerusalem.

Key takeaways include God's commitment to Jerusalem, His anger toward the nations that abused Israel, and His promise to rebuild the Temple, expand Jerusalem's borders, and bring comfort to His chosen city. These visions underline the importance of repentance and trust in God's plan for restoration and blessing.