Does it feel like things are spinning out of control? That godless men are in charge of this earth, and there can be no good ending to this story? That there is no one in charge and we are in serious trouble?
If you look merely from the manward side, this would be your constant evaluation. And not only yours but the observations of others throughout human history.
… is far different. Seen from God’s perspective, things are in order. And this is one of the great purposes of the patriarchs and prophets and the biblical writings, which were inspired by God to help us see.
Zechariah was a prophet from God who spoke 500 years before Christ. His prophecies gave the Israelites and all who would see great hope.
In Zechariah 6:1-8 he records the prophecy of four chariots with beautiful multi-colored horses. These are “the four spirits of heaven, going forth after standing before the Lord of all the earth” (Zech. 12:5). As such, they represent the mighty forces of God that come from heaven, constantly bringing both judgments and mercies to the people of the earth. The providence of God is seen in God’s work in this world—work done in perfect order and purpose.
But then we hear from heaven again through Zechariah. He is instructed (in his day) to go and place a crown upon the head of the High Priest. This priest was named “Joshua,” which in Greek is the name “Jesus.” Priests were not crowned in Zechariah’s day. This strange act was a symbol of One who was coming who would serve the function of both a priest for His kingdom and as the ruling King. Zechariah prophecies of the coming Messiah, 500 years before His, to give hope to the people of His day and ours.
“Then say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, “Behold, a man whose name is Branch, for He will branch out from where He is; and He will build the temple of the LORD. Yes, it is He who will build the temple of the LORD, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.” (Zech. 6:12-13)
Jesus was often referred to as the Branch (Is 4:2; 11:1; Jer 23:5; 33:15; Zech 3:8). In this prophecy, we are reminded that He will build the temple of God. This reference is not to the physical temple but to the ultimate temple, which is His church. He will serve as our priest, “forever making intercession for us” before the Father (Hebrews 7:25). This priest understands us, was tempted in all points like us, is sympathetic to our needs, and performs the work necessary to make us right before God (Hebrews 4:14-16).
But this High Priest (Jesus) will also serve as the King seated on the throne of His kingdom. And, as both Priest and King, He will usher in an ultimate reign of peace.
He will bring people “who are far off” who “will come and build the temple of the Lord” (Zech. 6:15), thus indicating that this new kingdom will be built from people of every tribe, tongue, nation, and people. Just as the angels would proclaim the night of His birth, this was “good news of great joy which will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10).
We are overwhelmed with our narrow view of every common day, but lift your eyes! See the great work of heaven. God rules! In His providence, He oversees the affairs of men with perfect purpose, and in His grace, He has sent a Savior who will build a kingdom of perfect peace! We can rest in His providence, even when we cannot see His hand perfectly. And all those who bend the knee under His rule will know the glory of His Kingdom, the grace of His deliverance, and the glorious peace of heaven!
