Time: Written during the building of the temple -- 520-516BC
What the Lord is Saying: What is the significance of these visions? They obviously serve multiple purposes. Each vision depicts something that is to be communicated. But, there is also an overall message.
(1) There is a confirmation that Zechariah or the angel has been sent by the Lord. Zechariah and what he hears and learns can be accepted because it comes from the Lord. "Then you will know that the Lord of Heaven's Armies has sent me."
(2) The Lord takes great joy in the work of His people. "the Lord rejoices to see the work begin."
(3) The Lord wants to be praised. He is the author and we are to praise the author. "May God bless it! May God bless it!
Now in this story, there are two things that are seen in the vision. Both times the angel is startled or maybe even puzzled as to why Zechariah doesn't understand their meanings. Obviously, the situation at hand is the building of the temple.
(1) A solid gold lamp stand. This represents the Lord's strength and force which is His Spirit. When His Spirit, nothing stands in its way. The people need to realize that God is there with them, giving them His strength to build the temple.
(2) Two olive trees. This represents two heavenly beings that stand guard in the court. Perhaps Revelaton 11:3-12 answers who these two beings are, standing guard.
Promise: The Lord is protecting us at all times. O if we would just see this and take confidence in this. And believe Him.
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