"This is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'If you walk in My ways and keep My instructions, then you will govern My house and will also have charge of My courts; and I will give you a place among these who are standing here. This is what the LORD of Hosts saysThe phrase "LORD of Hosts" is a translation of the Hebrew "Yahweh Sabaoth," which emphasizes God's supreme command over the heavenly armies. This title underscores His omnipotence and authority, reminding us that the message comes from the ultimate sovereign. Historically, this title reassures the Israelites of God's power and protection, especially during times of rebuilding and restoration after the Babylonian exile. If you walk in My ways
The Hebrew word for "walk" (הָלַךְ, halak) implies a continuous, habitual lifestyle. It suggests not just a single act of obedience but a consistent pattern of living according to God's commandments. "My ways" refers to the divine path laid out in the Torah, emphasizing a life aligned with God's will. This phrase calls believers to a life of holiness and righteousness, echoing the covenantal relationship between God and His people. and keep My instructions
The word "keep" (שָׁמַר, shamar) means to guard, observe, or give heed. It implies a vigilant and careful adherence to God's commands. "Instructions" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, mishmeret) can be understood as God's laws or decrees. This phrase highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness, which are central themes in the covenant relationship. It calls believers to a disciplined life, attentive to God's word. then you will govern My house
"Govern" (דִּין, din) suggests leadership and authority. "My house" refers to the temple, the center of worship and God's dwelling place among His people. Historically, this promise was directed to Joshua the high priest, symbolizing his role in the spiritual leadership of Israel. For believers, it signifies the privilege and responsibility of serving in God's kingdom, emphasizing stewardship and faithful service. and will also have charge of My courts
The phrase "have charge" (שָׁמַר, shamar) again emphasizes the responsibility of oversight and protection. "My courts" refers to the temple courts, the areas surrounding the Holy Place where worship and sacrifices occurred. This highlights the role of maintaining purity and order in worship, a call to ensure that our lives and communities reflect God's holiness. and I will give you a place among these standing here
"A place" (מַהֲלָךְ, mahalak) can be understood as a position or status. "Among these standing here" likely refers to the angelic beings present in the vision, symbolizing a place of honor and fellowship in the divine council. This promise points to the ultimate reward of faithfulness: communion with God and His heavenly hosts. It inspires believers with the hope of eternal fellowship with God, encouraging perseverance in faith and obedience. Persons / Places / Events 1. The LORD of HostsThis title emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly armies. It underscores His ability to fulfill His promises and execute His judgments. 2. Joshua the High PriestIn the context of Zechariah 3, Joshua represents the priesthood and, by extension, the people of Israel. He is being cleansed and restored to his priestly duties. 3. The Angel of the LORDOften seen as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, the Angel of the LORD mediates God's message and actions in this vision. 4. The House of the LORDRefers to the temple, symbolizing God's dwelling place and the center of worship for Israel. 5. The CourtsThese are the areas surrounding the temple where judicial and religious activities occur, symbolizing authority and governance. Teaching Points Obedience and BlessingWalking in God's ways and keeping His instructions are prerequisites for receiving His blessings and responsibilities. Obedience is not just about following rules but aligning one's life with God's will. Spiritual LeadershipJoshua's role as a high priest is a model for spiritual leadership. Leaders in the church are called to live righteously and lead others in worship and service. Divine AppointmentGod appoints and equips those He calls to serve. Just as Joshua was given charge over the temple, believers are entrusted with responsibilities in God's kingdom. Heavenly CitizenshipThe promise of a place among those standing before God points to our ultimate citizenship in heaven. Believers are called to live with an eternal perspective. Bible Study Questions 1. What does it mean to "walk in God's ways" in your daily life, and how can you practically apply this in your current circumstances? 2. How does the role of Joshua as a high priest relate to the New Testament understanding of Jesus as our High Priest? 3. In what ways can you take responsibility for the "house" and "courts" God has entrusted to you, whether in your family, church, or community? 4. How does the promise of a place among those standing before God encourage you in your spiritual journey? 5. Reflect on a time when obedience to God's instructions led to a blessing or new responsibility in your life. How can this experience strengthen your faith? Connections to Other Scriptures Deuteronomy 10:12-13This passage emphasizes the importance of walking in God's ways and keeping His commandments, similar to the conditions given to Joshua. 1 Samuel 2:35God promises to raise a faithful priest who will do according to His heart and mind, paralleling the promise of governance and charge given to Joshua. Revelation 3:21The promise of a place among those standing before God echoes the reward for overcoming and being granted a position of authority. | The Bible and True Greatness | D. Thomas | Zechariah 3:7 | | The Right of Entry | A. Maclaren, D. D. | Zechariah 3:7 | | By Nature and by Grace | J. Jowett, M. A. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Christ the Advocate of His Church and People | J. R. Woodford, M. A. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | God's Method of Salvation | J. S. Fulton. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Help and Opposition | G. Brooks. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua | E. Auriol, M. A. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua and Satan | J. R. Woodford, M. A. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua the High Priest | D. J. Burrell, D. D. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua the High Priest | Monday Club Sermons | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua the High Priest | T. Vincent Tymms. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua the High Priest | G. R. Hovey, D. D. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua the High Priest Before the Angel of Jehovah | T. V. Moore, D. D. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | Joshua the Priest | F. B. Meyer, B. A. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | The Good Man an Interceder | Homilist | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | The Great Contention | Bishop Reynolds. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | The Hinderer Rebuked | A. W. Snape, M. A. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | The Lord, the Defender of His People | George Hutcheson. | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | The Vision of Joshua | Outlines by a London Minister | Zechariah 3:1-7 | | A Charge to Young Ministers | Edward Grindrod. | Zechariah 3:6-7 | | A Place of Access | G. W. Barrett. | Zechariah 3:6-7 | | Cleansing, Obedience, Service | F. Whirfield, M. A. | Zechariah 3:6-7 | | God's Promise to Joshua | Job Often. | Zechariah 3:6-7 | | If and Them; Or, the Great Things of God's Promises | W. Forsyth | Zechariah 3:6, 7 |
People Joshua, ZechariahPlaces JerusalemTopics Access, Armies, Care, Charge, Conductors, Courts, Follow, Free, Govern, Grant, Hosts, Instructions, Judge, Perform, Places, Requirements, Rule, Says, Service, Stand, Standing, Temple, Thus, Walk, WiltDictionary of Bible Themes Zechariah 3:7 5197 walking Zechariah 3:1-7 7342 cleanliness Zechariah 3:1-8 7377 high priest, OT Zechariah 3:6-7 4111 angels, servants Library June 24. "I Will Clothe Thee with Change of Raiment" (Zech. Iii. 4).
"I will clothe thee with change of raiment" (Zech. iii. 4). For Paul every exercise of the Christian life was simply the grace of Jesus Christ imparted to him and lived out by him, so that holiness was to put on the Lord Jesus and all the robes of His perfect righteousness which he loves to describe so often in his beautiful epistles. "Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved," he says to the Colossians, "bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering"; and, …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth The Right of Entry
'I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.'--ZECHARIAH iii. 7. A WORD or two of explanation will probably be necessary in order to see the full meaning of this great promise. The Prophet has just been describing a vision of judgment which he saw, in which the high priest, as representative of the nation, stood before the Angel of the Lord as an unclean person. He is cleansed and clothed, his foul raiment stripped off him, and a fair priestly garment, with 'Holiness to the Lord' written …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture A vision of Judgement and Cleansing
'And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. 2. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? 3. Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the Angel. 4. And He answered and spake unto those that stood before Him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him He said, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Change of Raiment
"Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments."--Zech. iii. 4, 5. G. Ter Steegen. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 Lord Jesus, all my sin and guilt Love laid of old on Thee, Thy love the cross and sorrow willed, Love undeserved by me. The victory over death and hell Thou, Lord, for me didst win; And Thou hast nailed upon …
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series) Home Occupations and Travels in England and Wales.
1828--1833. On their return home Martha Yeardley was attacked with a severe illness, consequent probably on hard travelling and bad accommodation during the journey. Under date of the 18th of the Fifth Month, J.Y. writes:-- How circumstances change! Last Yearly Meeting we were in London with the prospect of a long journey before us, and now my dear Martha is on a bed of sickness, and I have myself suffered; but through all there is a degree of peaceful resignation in the belief that all is done …
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel Some Helps to Mourning
Having removed the obstructions, let me in the last place propound some helps to holy mourning. 1 Set David's prospect continually before you. My sin is ever before me' (Psalm 51:3). David, that he might be a mourner, kept his eye full upon sin. See what sin is, and then tell me if there be not enough in it to draw forth tears. I know not what name to give it bad enough. One calls it the devil's excrement. Sin is a complication of all evils. It is the spirits of mischief distilled. Sin dishonours …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 How to Make Use of Christ, as Truth, for Comfort, when Truth is Oppressed and Born Down.
There is another difficulty, wherein believing souls will stand in need of Christ, as the truth, to help them; and that is, when his work is overturned, his cause borne down, truth condemned, and enemies, in their opposition to his work, prospering in all their wicked attempts. This is a very trying dispensation, as we see it was to the holy penman of Psalm lxxiii. for it made him to stagger, so that his feet were almost gone, and his steps had well nigh slipt; yea he was almost repenting of his …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life The Sum and Substance of all Theology
Note: On Tuesday, June 25th, 1861, the beloved C. H. Spurgeon visited Swansea. The day was wet, so the services could not be held in the open-air; and, as no building in the town was large enough to hold the vast concourses of people who had come from all parts to hear the renowned preacher, he consented to deliver two discourses in the morning; first at Bethesda, and then at Trinity Chapel. At each place he preached for an hour and a quarter. The weather cleared up during the day; so, in the evening, …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 62: 1916 Annunciation of the Birth of Jesus.
(at Nazareth, b.c. 5.) ^C Luke I. 26-38. ^c 26 Now in the sixth month [this is the passage from which we learn that John was six months older than Jesus] the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth [Luke alone tells us where Mary lived before the birth of Jesus. That Nazareth was an unimportant town is shown by the fact that it is mentioned nowhere in the Old Testament, nor in the Talmud, nor in Josephus, who mentions two hundred four towns and cities of Galilee. The …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Concerning Worship.
Concerning Worship. [780] All true and acceptable worship to God is offered in the inward and immediate moving and drawing of his own Spirit which is neither limited to places times, nor persons. For though we are to worship him always, and continually to fear before him; [781] yet as to the outward signification thereof, in prayers, praises, or preachings, we ought not to do it in our own will, where and when we will; but where and when we are moved thereunto by the stirring and secret inspiration …
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity Blessed are the Poor in Spirit
Having spoken of the general notion of blessedness, I come next to consider the subjects of this blessedness, and these our Saviour has deciphered to be the poor in spirit, the mourners, etc. But before I touch upon these, I shall attempt a little preface or paraphrase upon this sermon of the beatitudes. 1 Observe the divinity in this sermon, which goes beyond all philosophy. The philosophers use to say that one contrary expels another; but here one contrary begets another. Poverty is wont to expel …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Thoughts Upon the Appearance of Christ the Sun of Righteousness, or the Beatifick vision.
SO long as we are in the Body, we are apt to be governed wholly by its senses, seldom or never minding any thing but what comes to us through one or other of them. Though we are all able to abstract our Thoughts when we please from matter, and fix them upon things that are purely spiritual; there are but few that ever do it. But few, even among those also that have such things revealed to them by God himself, and so have infinitely more and firmer ground to believe them, than any one, or all their …
William Beveridge—Private Thoughts Upon a Christian Life Meditations on the Hindrances which Keep Back a Sinner from the Practice of Piety.
Those hindrances are chiefly seven:-- I. An ignorant mistaking of the true meaning of certain places of the holy Scriptures, and some other chief grounds of Christian religion. The Scriptures mistaken are these: 1. Ezek. xxxiii. 14, 16, "At what time soever a sinner repenteth him of his sin, I will blot out all," &c. Hence the carnal Christian gathers, that he may repent when he will. It is true, whensoever a sinner does repent, God will forgive; but the text saith not, that a sinner may repent whensoever …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Its Meaning
Deliverance from the condemning sentence of the Divine Law is the fundamental blessing in Divine salvation: so long as we continue under the curse, we can neither be holy nor happy. But as to the precise nature of that deliverance, as to exactly what it consists of, as to the ground on which it is obtained, and as to the means whereby it is secured, much confusion now obtains. Most of the errors which have been prevalent on this subject arose from the lack of a clear view of the thing itself, and …
Arthur W. Pink—The Doctrine of Justification How Christ is Made Use of for Justification as a Way.
What Christ hath done to purchase, procure, and bring about our justification before God, is mentioned already, viz. That he stood in the room of sinners, engaging for them as their cautioner, undertaking, and at length paying down the ransom; becoming sin, or a sacrifice for sin, and a curse for them, and so laying down his life a ransom to satisfy divine justice; and this he hath made known in the gospel, calling sinners to an accepting of him as their only Mediator, and to a resting upon him for …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life The Covenant of Works
Q-12: I proceed to the next question, WHAT SPECIAL ACT OF PROVIDENCE DID GOD EXERCISE TOWARDS MAN IN THE ESTATE WHEREIN HE WAS CREATED? A: When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him upon condition of perfect obedience, forbidding him to eat of the tree of knowledge upon pain of death. For this, consult with Gen 2:16, 17: And the Lord commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Zechariah
CHAPTERS I-VIII Two months after Haggai had delivered his first address to the people in 520 B.C., and a little over a month after the building of the temple had begun (Hag. i. 15), Zechariah appeared with another message of encouragement. How much it was needed we see from the popular despondency reflected in Hag. ii. 3, Jerusalem is still disconsolate (Zech. i. 17), there has been fasting and mourning, vii. 5, the city is without walls, ii. 5, the population scanty, ii. 4, and most of the people …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Zechariah 3:7 NIVZechariah 3:7 NLTZechariah 3:7 ESVZechariah 3:7 NASBZechariah 3:7 KJV
Zechariah 3:7 Commentaries
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