God’s plans are not only cosmic—they are also personal. Zechariah 6 paints a picture of both judgment and redemption, but it ends with a prophetic vision of Yeshua, our High Priest and King, who builds the true temple of the LORD.
Key Verse:
“Yes, it is He who will build the temple of the LORD, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.” —Zechariah 6:13 (NASB)
Background Context:
Zechariah 6 begins with a vision of four chariots representing the four spirits of heaven, sent out by God to patrol the earth. This imagery echoes back to chapter 1 and reflects God’s sovereign oversight over the nations. The second part of the chapter moves from heavenly judgment to messianic hope. Zechariah is instructed to fashion a crown and set it on the head of Joshua the high priest—not because Joshua is the ultimate king, but as a prophetic symbol. The man named “Branch” (a title associated with the Messiah) will combine the roles of king and priest in one. This prophecy points directly to Yeshua, who rules with justice and mediates as our great High Priest.
(Continued and expanded after scripture.)
The Four Chariots
1Now I lifted up my eyes again and looked, and behold, four chariots were coming forth from between the two mountains; and the mountains were bronze mountains. 2With the first chariot were red horses, with the second chariot black horses, 3with the third chariot white horses, and with the fourth chariot strong dappled horses. 4Then I spoke and said to the angel who was speaking with me, “What are these, my lord?” 5The angel replied to me, “These are the four spirits of heaven, going forth after standing before the Lord of all the earth, 6with one of which the black horses are going forth to the north country; and the white ones go forth after them, while the dappled ones go forth to the south country. 7“When the strong ones went out, they were eager to go to patrol the earth.” And He said, “Go, patrol the earth.” So they patrolled the earth. 8Then He cried out to me and spoke to me saying, “See, those who are going to the land of the north have appeased My wrath in the land of the north.”
9The word of the LORD also came to me, saying, 10“Take an offering from the exiles, from Heldai, Tobijah and Jedaiah; and you go the same day and enter the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah, where they have arrived from Babylon.
The Symbolic Crowns
11“Take silver and gold, make an ornate crown and set it on the head of Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest. 12“Then say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, “Behold, a man whose name is Branch, for He will branch out from where He is; and He will build the temple of the LORD. 13“Yes, it is He who will build the temple of the LORD, and He who will bear the honor and sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices.”’ 14“Now the crown will become a reminder in the temple of the LORD to Helem, Tobijah, Jedaiah and Hen the son of Zephaniah. 15“Those who are far off will come and build the temple of the LORD.” Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you. And it will take place if you completely obey the LORD your God.
Reflection on Zechariah 6:
This chapter gives us a glimpse of divine order—God is not absent from the chaos of the world. He sends out His heavenly forces, ensuring His will is done throughout the earth. But it also reminds us that God’s plan is not only about judgment or dominion—it’s about peace and restoration. The crowning of Joshua foreshadows Yeshua, who would bring together the royal and priestly roles perfectly.
Yeshua is not just Savior; He is King and Priest. He rules with authority and intercedes with compassion. The prophecy reminds us that the temple He builds is not of stone, but of living people—His body. And in that temple, peace dwells between justice and mercy, power and humility.
Application:
Recognize Yeshua as both your King and your Priest. Submit to His authority and rest in His intercession. Ask yourself if you are letting Him build His temple in your life—are you surrendered to His blueprint? Are you wearing the crown of self or laying it before His throne? Trust in the counsel of peace that only He provides. And remember, you are part of what He is building—make sure you’re letting Him shape and place you where He desires.
Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Yeshua, our King and High Priest. Help me to live under His rule and trust in His intercession. Teach me to surrender my own plans and desires so that You may build Your holy temple within and among us. Let me walk in peace, knowing that Your counsel is good and Your purposes will prevail. In Yeshua’s name, amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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