Zechariah's name means the Lord remembers. It is meant to encourage those who had returned from captivity to be involved in the work of God. Filthy garments are removed from Joshua the high priest and clean garments are given to him. He is able to continue in service of the Lord, free from harassment. This is a picture of believer's hope under the condemnation of the devil. This vision is calculated to give us hope as we live the normal Christian life. We have an unassailable standing before the Lord. In our experience, we know we are filthy. But in our standing, we are righteous. In this message, we see the Lord rising to the defense of the believer
1. Joshua - the fallen believer Joshua is a priest with direct access to God. He represents believers called to serve God. He is clothed filthy garments. We have a picture of one who knows his guilt and lack of fitness to serve God
2. Satan - the believer's adversary Satan is standing at Joshua's right hand to resist him. He is a cruel adversary. It is better that he be your advisory rather than a friend. It is an act of grace that Satan is your enemy. Satan can easily accuse us
3. the Lord - the believer's defense It is a gloomy vision thus far. But the main character is the Lord and he comes to Joshua's defense 3a. defends on the basis of His purpose God chose Jerusalem. Our defense is in the irresistible decree of God's election. Free and sovereign grace is your defense 3b. defends on basis of His pity Joshua is a brand plucked from fire. We had no ability to rescue ourselves 3c. defends on basis of His passion Reaching into the fire means there will be suffering. It hints at Christ's death
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
