CHAPTER IV _The prophet, overpowered by his last vision, is roused by the_ _angel to behold another_, 1; _intended also to assure the Jews of the success of Joshua and_ _Zerubbabel in building the temple, and surmounting every_ _obstacle in the way; till at length, by the good providence of_ _... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:2. _A CANDLESTICK ALL OF GOLD_] This candlestick is formed in some measure after that of the _sanctuary_, Exodus 25:31-2: but in that of the sanctuary there was no _bowl_, nor _seven pipes_, nor _seven lamps_, nor the _two olive trees_. The _two olive trees_ were to supply the _bo... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:6. _THIS_ IS _THE WORD OF THE LORD UNTO ZERUBBABEL_] This prince was in a trying situation, and he needed especial encouragement from God; and here it is: _Not by might_, (of thy own,) _nor by power_, (authority from others,) _but by my Spirit _- the providence, authority, power,... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:7. _O GREAT MOUNTAIN?_] The hinderances which were thrown in the way; the regal prohibition to discontinue the building of the temple. _BEFORE ZERUBBABEL - A PLAIN_] The sovereign power of God shall remove them. March on, Zerubbabel; all shall be made plain and smooth before thee.... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:10. _WHO HATH DESPISED THE DAY OF SMALL THINGS?_] The poverty, weakness, and unbefriended state of the Jews. It was said, "What do these feeble Jews?" "Will they build," c.? No. But God will build by them, and perfect his building too. _AND SHALL SEE THE PLUMMET IN THE HAND OF ZER... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:11. _WHAT_ ARE _THESE TWO OLIVE TREES_] See on Zechariah 4:2.... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:12. _WHAT_ BE _THESE TWO OLIVE BRANCHES_] That is, two _boughs_ laden with _branches of olive berries_.... [ Continue Reading ]
Verse Zechariah 4:14. _THESE_ ARE _THE TWO ANOINTED ONES_] Joshua, the high priest; and Zerubbabel the governor. These are _anointed_-appointed by the Lord; and _stand by him_, the one to minister in the _ecclesiastical_, the other in the _civil_ state. Probably we may not be able to comprehend the... [ Continue Reading ]