Whenever we see something unjust or bad happening in the world, we are not only disturbed, but we also wonder when the Lord will put things right. The Bible is full of promises from the Lord that He is building His Kingdom and that there will come a day when His justice and goodness will prevail. The day will come when all wickedness will be punished, and peace will reign as the lamb lays down with the lion. We are ready for that day – perhaps overly ready! But until that day comes, we wonder if the promise is true. We want not just to hear about it, but to know it, to experience it. That surely must have been true of the returned exiles and Zechariah as they stood among the ruins of Jerusalem, an unfinished temple, and hostile inhabitants of the land. God understands our fears and weakness, so He brings us a clear picture of His control and blessing in a vision and a word to Zechariah. The Lord God reveals to us that He is sovereign and that He will establish His Kingdom. We need not doubt Him. We can see His power and purpose in “God’s Patrol and Temple” (Zechariah 6:1-15).

I. Vision of the Four Chariots
A. The Strength of the Lord
B. The Judgment of the Lord
C. The Rest for God’s People

II. A Priest on the Throne
A. Joshua’s Crown
B. The True Temple
C. The True King

Questions for consideration: (1) Why do you think that we often fail to see or remember the strength of the Lord in our everyday lives? (2) How does knowing about the judgment of the Lord help us as we struggle in the world? How can it aid our evangelism? (3) The people of Israel had a difficult time imagining the Messiah. What is most difficult for you to understand about Jesus? Why?