Today you should read: Zechariah 4
Here we see the fourth of eight visions described by Zechariah. This one includes a seven lipped lampstand with a bowl in the middle that is surrounded by two olive trees. I know angels are a part of a divine counsel and all (Psalm 82:1) but how could this one really be that surprised that Zechariah has no idea what this vision is supposed to represent?(v.5) Heck, I’m confused just looking at the unpleasant PowerPoint picture of it that some preacher probably created in the late 80’s:
Luckily, the angel answers his own question and explains it as God’s Word to Zerubbabel, the governor who was in charge of rebuilding the temple along with Joshua. It’s a reminder that this temple won’t be rebuilt by anyone’s power or might, no matter the strength or size of who’s working, it was going to be built by the Spirit of God. (v. 6). It’s by God’s grace and divine aid that this work will get done (v. 7).
Later, after the angel pretends to be like a middle school boy in a Sunday school class, not answering Zechariah after he asks him something several times (v. 11-13), we see that the two olive trees providing the never-ending oil to the lamps as two people anointed by God, representing Him to those on Earth. Some believe these two beings were angels or prophets like Zechariah and Haggai or even the two who are charged to rebuild the temple, Zerubbabel and Joshua. We don’t know for sure but what we don’t know is that these two prophecies still stand true for the things we are building for the Lord today. Whether it’s a home centered around Jesus or a church growing to advance His kingdom, we cannot build it through might and strength but instead the Spirit, by God’s grace.
I’m especially reminded of this as our West Campus continues to take next steps in moving into a more permanent facility after over six years setting up and tearing down in a school with an army of believers who are ready to put in the work to not only make that move but to reach more people. However we need Jesus and His Spirit more than an army. It’s also a great reminder of those who represent God with those olive branches. I know in the 80’s and 90’s it was very popular for churches to designate the pastor or “preacher” as God’s truly, anointed man of God, practically excusing any type of bad behavior and allowing them way more authority than one man should have to do things his way in the church but we also don’t want to throw out the baby with the bathwater. God does anoint and use people to represent Him and to protect His truths. This can be a preacher but also ANY BELIEVER who is filled in the Spirit and walking with the Lord.
By: Erik Koliser — West Campus Pastor
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Praying daily for God to provide a permanent location for West Campus. Much love and many blessings to you, your family and your flock.
Thank you so much Lindsay!