Today’s passage: Zechariah 3
Helpful thoughts:
- Joshua was the high priest who came back from the exile along with Zerubbabel in Ezra 3:2. The spellings of “Joshua” and “Jeshua” are the same person in these passages.
- Joshua is standing before God as a representative of the nation. These accusations, grace, blessing, etc. are not just for him, but for all Israel.
- Israel was worthy of these filthy garments. Satan did not have to falsify any report or accusation of filth. But God, who is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:4) graciously clothes his chosen people in clean (righteous) garments.
- The new priestly outfit was not complete without a new turban. The priestly turban read, “Holiness to the Lord” (Exodus 28:36-37). This holiness was gifted to Israel, and was now expected of her.
- There are three references to the coming Christ in verses 8 and 9:
- My Servant
- The Branch
- The Stone
Questions to consider:
- In what ways do we see the themes of guilt, mercy, grace, forgiveness and repentance today? In what ways do the components of this vision preach the gospel?
- How did the Stone which the builders rejected remove the iniquity of His people? Where and when did that removal of sin take place (Romans 5:6-11)?
- What is the sign depicted of Joshua the priest (And all his companions, who were other priests who would come after him) representing Israel before God? What would have been true of all of them? Who alone can righteously stand before God on our behalf (Hebrews 4:14-16)?