January 3, 2020

Today’s Reading: Zechariah 4:1-10

 So he answered me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by strength or by might, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of Hosts.

Zechariah 4:6

Come to our Sunday Worship Service OR Listen to Rev. Moegagogo Solomona’s sermon from today’s 10AM Sunday Worship Livestream on our Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/ccmla.

Reflect on the Notes below in our Life Group Zoom, Mondays at 7:30PM.

Sermon Main Idea: God’s Work is accomplished by God’s Spirit through God’s people.

Zechariah 4 Background Notes:

  • The people of Judah are returning from Exile to a desolate Jerusalem.
  • Zerubbabel, a leader of the people, has set out to rebuild the Temple, but is faced with many obstacles.
  • The Angel of the LORD gives the prophet Zechariah a series of visions that reveal God’s role in the restoration of His people and Jerusalem.

Text Notes:

  • Presentation- The Agency of the Olive Trees (v.1-3)
    • The lampstands (menorahs) were used for worship in the Temple.
    • The oil from olive trees was used to keep the lamps lit.
    • The two olive trees in the vision empty themselves of oil to provide for the lampstands in Zechariah’s vision (4:12).
  • Explanation- The Activity of God’s Spirit (v. 4-7)
    • God’s Spirit, not human might/power, will do God’s Work.
      • might: (חַ֫יִל) chayil = wealth, resources, ability.
      • power: (כֹּחַ) koach = human strength, effort.
      • Spirit (רוּחַ) ruach = the presence of God.
    • God will lead Zerubbabel through “impossible” obstacles.
  • Confirmation- The Achievement of God’s Work (v. 8-10)
    • God will complete the work He started with Zerubbabel.
    • God rejoices at the beginning of His work.

Life Note: God is able; be available.

Reflection Questions:

  • What are some things that can discourage us when doing God’s Work?
  • Why is it easy for us to rely on our own might and power instead of God’s Spirit?
  • What is the work God has for you? And how can you make yourself available for God’s Spirit to work through you?

Prayer: Lord, thank You that I can trust in You for accomplishing Your Perfect Work in all situations. Thank You for Your grace to help me remember that You are always in control. As I seek Your direction and guidance, please help me to live with the perspective that You are the One Who will accomplish Your perfect Plan not matter what. In Jesus’ Precious Name I pray, AMEN.

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): John 15:1-16:4; 2 Chronicles 23; Psalm 80