Understanding Zechariah 4:7

Zechariah 4:7 (KJV): "Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it."

Verse Summary

This verse speaks to the obstacles represented by the "great mountain" that Zerubbabel faces in the task of rebuilding the temple. The imagery illustrates the assurance that, with God's assistance, the mountains of difficulty will be leveled, making way for the completion of God's work.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the power of God to remove obstacles, suggesting that the "great mountain" symbolizes formidable challenges. He interprets Zerubbabel's success as a testament to God's grace and strength. The 'headstone' signifies the completion of the temple work, celebrated with joy and praise, reinforcing the theme of divine support in endeavors that align with God's will.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights the metaphorical use of 'mountain' to refer to any significant challenge. He explains that Zerubbabel's mission symbolically foreshadows greater spiritual truths, including the removal of barriers to God's kingdom. Barnes points out that the declaration "Grace, grace unto it" underscores the Gospel's essence—God's grace is paramount in accomplishing what seems impossible.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke draws connections between Zerubbabel's task and the overarching narrative of God's redemptive plan. He notes that the mountain represents not just physical hindrance but spiritual opposition. Clarke views the verse as a promise, signifying that with divine assistance, every obstacle can be overcome, and God's purpose for His people shall be fulfilled.

Bible Verse Cross-References

• Isaiah 40:4: "Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low..." - Relates to the theme of God leveling obstacles.
• Matthew 17:20: "...if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move..." - Illustrates the power of faith against large challenges.
• Mark 11:23: "For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed..." - Emphasizes the authority given to believers to overcome obstacles through faith.
• Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” - Assures believers of strength in facing challenges.
• 2 Corinthians 12:9: "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness..." - Highlights the sufficiency of grace—central to Zechariah 4:7.
• Romans 8:31: "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?" - Reinforces God's protective presence against adversities.
• Revelation 21:4: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain..." - Points to God's ultimate restoration, overcoming all barriers.

Thematic Connections

This verse embodies several key themes within Scripture:

• God's Sovereignty: It reflects God's ultimate control over creation and circumstances, evident in His ability to flatten mountains.
• Divine Assistance: The proclamation of grace underscores that divine grace is essential for achieving seemingly impossible tasks.
• Joy in Accomplishment: The verse's context reveals a celebratory acknowledgment of God's faithfulness in His work.
• Faith and Assurance: Encourages believers to trust in God’s promises despite encountering large obstacles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zechariah 4:7 serves as both a historical reminder of God's help to the Jewish people during the rebuilding of the temple and a broader spiritual message regarding faith and divine assistance. The insights from prominent biblical commentators collectively reveal the empowering nature of God's promises and the role of His grace in our lives, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and relying on divine help in overcoming life's challenges.