Zechariah 1:20

Then the LORD showed me four craftsmen.

Study Bible

Then the LORD showed me
This phrase indicates divine revelation, a common theme in prophetic literature where God communicates directly with the prophet. The LORD, Yahweh, is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His relationship with Israel. This revelation is part of a series of visions given to Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, to encourage the Jewish people during the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The act of God showing something to a prophet underscores the idea that true understanding and insight come from God alone.

four craftsmen.
The term "craftsmen" refers to skilled workers, possibly metalworkers or builders, who are often associated with construction and creation. In the context of Zechariah's vision, these craftsmen are symbolic agents of God's judgment and restoration. The number four is significant, often representing universality or completeness in biblical literature, suggesting that these craftsmen have a comprehensive role in God's plan. This vision follows the one of the four horns, which represented the nations that scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem. The craftsmen are seen as those who will counteract or overthrow these oppressive powers. This imagery can be connected to other biblical passages where God raises up deliverers or agents to fulfill His purposes, such as the judges in the Book of Judges or the anointed leaders like Cyrus in Isaiah 45. The craftsmen can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate restorer and builder of God's kingdom, overcoming the forces of evil and establishing peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet who received visions from God during the post-exilic period, encouraging the Israelites to rebuild the temple and renew their covenant with God.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who reveals His plans and purposes to Zechariah through visions.

3. Four Craftsmen
Symbolic figures shown to Zechariah, representing God's agents of change and restoration. The Hebrew word for "craftsmen" is (charash), which can mean artisans or skilled workers.

4. The Vision
Part of a series of visions given to Zechariah, this one follows the vision of the four horns, which represent powers that scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem.

5. Post-Exilic Jerusalem
The setting of Zechariah's prophecies, where the Jewish people are returning from Babylonian exile and are tasked with rebuilding the temple and their community.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Restoration
God is actively involved in the restoration of His people. The vision of the craftsmen shows that God has a plan to counteract the forces that oppose His people.

Divine Intervention
Just as God raised up craftsmen to deal with the horns, He raises up individuals and circumstances in our lives to bring about His purposes and to protect us from harm.

Hope in Times of Opposition
The vision encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate plan, even when faced with powerful adversaries. God equips and sends His agents to bring about justice and restoration.

Role of Skilled Workers in God's Plan
The term "craftsmen" highlights the importance of skills and talents in God's work. Believers are called to use their God-given abilities for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

Encouragement for Rebuilding
Just as the Israelites were called to rebuild the temple, believers are encouraged to participate in the spiritual rebuilding of their communities, trusting in God's provision and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the four craftsmen in Zechariah 1:20 provide comfort and assurance to the people of Israel during their time of rebuilding?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and intervention in our own lives, similar to how He used the craftsmen to counteract the horns?

3. How can we identify and utilize our own skills and talents as "craftsmen" in God's kingdom today?

4. What parallels can we draw between the opposition faced by the Israelites and the challenges faced by the church today?

5. How can the message of hope and restoration in Zechariah 1:20 inspire us to engage in the spiritual rebuilding of our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Zechariah 1:18-19
The preceding verses introduce the four horns, which symbolize the oppressive powers against Israel. The craftsmen are shown as a response to these horns, indicating God's plan to counteract and overcome these adversities.

Isaiah 54:16-17
These verses speak of God creating both the destroyer and the blacksmith, emphasizing His sovereignty over all events and His ability to protect and restore His people.

Revelation 7:1-3
The imagery of four angels holding back the winds parallels the concept of divine agents controlling and directing events for God's purposes.