In chapter 7, Zechariah is asked whether those who have returned from exile in Babylon must continue their fasts lamenting Jerusalem’s former destruction now that temple reconstruction is well underway? The prophet doesn’t directly answer the question, instead pronouncing a series of prophetic oracles in chapter 8 which show that Yahweh’s jealous love for his people will one day transform Jerusalem, making it peaceful and prosperous for all who will remain faithful. They must be courageous, apply themselves to their work in obedience and therefore seek to be a blessing to others. Eventually he tells them that their fasting will be transformed into feasting, causing the nations to gather to Yahweh when they hear he is with his people. Zechariah points to a glorious future and calls God’s people to live now as they will then. The call to us is to live in our day in light of that day when God dwells with his people eternally and until then to continue participating in the “temple-building” work begun by the Lord Jesus.
The following aspects of a worship service are included as a suggested guide to worshipping as a household for Sunday 30th August, 2020
In chapter 7, Zechariah is asked whether those who have returned from exile in Babylon must continue their fasts lamenting Jerusalem’s former destruction now that temple reconstruction is well underway? The prophet doesn’t directly answer the question, instead pronouncing a series of prophetic oracles in chapter 8 which show that Yahweh’s jealous love for his people will one day transform Jerusalem, making it peaceful and prosperous for all who will remain faithful. They must be courageous, apply themselves to their work in obedience and therefore seek to be a blessing to others. Eventually he tells them that their fasting will be transformed into feasting, causing the nations to gather to Yahweh when they hear he is with his people. Zechariah points to a glorious future and calls God’s people to live now as they will then. The call to us is to live in our day in light of that day when God dwells with his people eternally and until then to continue participating in the “temple-building” work begun by the Lord Jesus.
