Like a good detective, let's examine this book.

🔥 Overview

Zechariah prophesied during the same period as Haggai, encouraging the people to finish rebuilding the temple. Unlike Haggai’s straightforward style, Zechariah includes a series of symbolic visions rich in imagery. The book begins with a call to repentance and reminds God’s people of His covenant faithfulness. It foretells the coming Messiah, His rejection, and His future reign as King. Zechariah highlights God’s plan for the nations and the ultimate restoration of Jerusalem. Through visions, promises, and warnings, the prophet reassures God’s people that He is working out His plan. The book ends with hope, pointing toward God’s final victory.

🔍 Things to Notice

Zechariah contains more Messianic prophecies than almost any other prophet.
The book uses apocalyptic imagery similar to Revelation.
Eight symbolic visions provide a framework for understanding God’s plan.
Zechariah introduces both the suffering and conquering Messiah.
Jerusalem is central to God’s end-time purposes.

🙏 Jesus in this Book

(Every book reveals the glory of God, displayed in Christ Jesus)

Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9; fulfilled in Matthew 21:5).
Jesus is the pierced one mourned by Israel (Zechariah 12:10; John 19:37).
Jesus is the Shepherd rejected for thirty pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:12-13; Matthew 27:9-10).
Jesus will reign as King and Priest (Zechariah 6:13; Hebrews 7).
Jesus brings living water and salvation (Zechariah 14:8; John 7:37-39).

👀 Themes

God’s covenant faithfulness
Repentance and restoration
Messianic hope
God’s plan for the nations
The triumph of God’s kingdom

😀 Who?

Who wrote it?

Author: Zechariah, son of Berechiah.
Background: A priest and prophet, Zechariah ministered to the returned exiles.
Known for blending pastoral care with apocalyptic vision.

🪧 Where/When?

Where are we?

Around 520–480 B.C., during the reign of King Darius of Persia.
The people are rebuilding the temple and restoring Jerusalem.
Written in Jerusalem during the temple’s reconstruction.

🤔 What?

What is the big idea? God calls His people to repent, trust His promises, and look forward to the Messiah’s reign. Zechariah’s visions show God’s sovereignty and His plan for ultimate restoration. Jesus Christ fulfills Zechariah’s prophecies, bringing hope and salvation.

🧐 Why?

Why is this book important? Zechariah provides one of the clearest pictures of the coming Messiah in the Old Testament. It connects God’s covenant promises with His future kingdom. The book reassures believers that God’s purposes will prevail despite opposition. It offers comfort during times of discouragement and uncertainty. Ultimately, it strengthens faith in Christ’s victory and God’s eternal plan.