Zecheriah

Zechariah Homework

1. Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the book.

Zechariah was contemporary to Haggai, Ezra, and Nehemiah who were all working to reestablish the people as they were coming out of exile in Babylon (1:1). The people had come out of 70 years with no king and no identity. It was not as easy as it seemed since they were having to rebuild everything from the ground up. Yet even in the midst if discouragement and fear of the unknown, they found themselves with a fresh start.  

God wanted them to know who they were. They were very vulnerable and God wanted to encourage them that he is always with them (1:14-15). He takes these people that he had banished to exile for their sins, the same people that he described as prostituting themselves to the nations and gods around them, and he declares them a holy city (8:3). He speaks of peace and joy within the city and for destruction that comes to those who come against them (1:21). It is redemption. 

2. What does this book show of the Character and Nature of God as well as His plan for redemption?

“See, I have taken away your sins and now I am giving you all these fine new clothes.” (3:4)

God is so faithful. He’s such a good God that loves his people so deeply . Even after all the depravity that they feel so deeply into, God welcomes them back in joy! (8:3) He’s proud of them once again and longs to dwell among them (8:12). But this isn’t there end. There are promises for a kingdom of peace. All throughout Zechariah, we see hints and prophesies of the coming Messiah (3:8). He’s on his way!

3. Point of Passion

What a beautiful picture of a lost child coming home! God’s patience and faithfulness towards his people should be so admired and imitated as parents! Even to a prostitute, adulterous nation, he welcomes them back to himself. Kids may stray so far that we cannot comprehend the depth of being lost. But if they come back with repentant hearts, we must model ourselves as parents after the Lord God himself who not only welcomed and forgave, but promises to restore and protect.