Eight Visions of Power: Understanding Zechariah

Chapter 6: Vision 5 - The Golden Lampstand and Olive Trees (Zechariah 4:1-14)

In Zechariah Chapter 4, we encounter the fifth vision experienced by the prophet Zechariah. It's a fascinating passage that reveals important truths about God's plans and the empowerment He offers to His people, particularly during challenging times. Let's take a closer look at the verses, unpack their meaning, and consider how they referred to Israel coming out of their 70 year captivity.

The chapter begins in verse 1: "And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is awakened out of his sleep." Zechariah is being filled with inspiration again, much like someone who has just woken up to a new day. This setting suggests that God is ready to share important revelations with him.

In verse 2, the angel asks Zechariah, "What seest thou?" Zechariah responds by describing a golden candlestick, or lampstand, with a bowl on top and seven lamps. He sees two olive trees on either side of the candlestick, which is a powerful symbol. Many like to go to the book of Revelation as a cross reference for this, and make this the two witnesses. However, while there are going to be two witnesses during the Ages to Come, in the end times, the context of the vision is referring to the audience of Israel that just came out of their 70 year captivity to rebuild Jerusalem.

The lampstand represents light and guidance from God, while the olive trees signify not the two witnesses in the Tribulation necessary, but Zerubabbel and Joshua. This imagery suggests that God's Spirit illuminates His people (specifically his leaders) and provides the necessary oil, or strength, to keep that light shining.

Verse 6 captures a key part of the vision: "Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the LORD of hosts." This verse is significant because it emphasizes that human strength or resources are not what accomplish God's work. Instead, it is through the Holy Spirit that believers find the true power to fulfill God's purposes. That's why God's prophets are there. Malachi, Zechariah and Haggai, to encourage and empower God's people for God's purposes.

In verses 7 and 8, we see the importance of Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah. The angel delivers God's message: "Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain." This indicates that any obstacles or challenges, shown by a great mountain, will be leveled or overcome when God is involved. It's a reminder to them that even when things seem impossible, God will work prophetic wonders through His chosen leaders.

Verse 9 continues with the assurance of God's support: "The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it." This speaks to the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, a task that Zerubbabel had started. It reassures him that God will help him complete the work God has called him to do.

In verse 10, we read, "For who hath despised the day of small things?" This challenges the idea that only large efforts can have significant impacts. Sometimes, great things start small, and God values those seemingly minor beginnings. It reminds us of the importance of persistence and faithfulness in smaller tasks.

Finally, verses 11 to 14 introduce the two olive trees in more detail, explaining that these represent the "two anointed ones" or the leaders empowered by God's Spirit. 

In summary, Zechariah 4:1-14 provides clear lessons about Israel's reliance on God's Spirit, the importance of leadership, overcoming obstacles, and valuing all contributions, regardless of their size as they continue to rebuild and restore.