BASIC SCRIPTURE Daily Online 23 September 2023 ZECHARIAH 3:1-7
Zechariah 3:1-7 (ESV):
1 Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him.
2 And the Lord said to Satan, “The Lord rebuke you, O Satan! The Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is not this a brand plucked from the fire?”
3 Now Joshua was standing before the angel, clothed with filthy garments.
4 And the angel said to those who were standing before him, “Remove the filthy garments from him.” And to him he said, “Behold, I have taken your iniquity away from you, and I will clothe you with pure vestments.”
5 And I said, “Let them put a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the Lord was standing by.
6 And the angel of the Lord solemnly assured Joshua,
7 “Thus says the Lord of hosts: If you will walk in my ways and keep my charge, then you shall rule my house and have charge of my courts, and I will give you the right of access among those who are standing here.
FINISH READING: ODM Daily Online 23 September 2023 – THE LAST MINISTRY OF JESUS – 1
Devotional Reflection: Zechariah 3:1-7 is a powerful passage that illustrates themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the divine calling to holiness.
- Spiritual Accusation: In this vision, Joshua the high priest is standing before the angel of the Lord, with Satan at his right hand to accuse him. This scene reminds us that Satan is the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10), constantly seeking to bring charges against believers.
- Divine Rebuke: The Lord rebukes Satan and emphasizes His choice of Jerusalem, symbolizing His commitment to His people. The phrase, “Is not this a brand plucked from the fire?” underscores God’s mercy in rescuing His people from destruction.
- Redemption and Cleansing: Joshua is depicted wearing filthy garments, symbolizing sin and uncleanness. However, the angel of the Lord commands that his filthy garments be removed and replaced with clean vestments. This represents God’s act of forgiveness and cleansing, where He takes away our iniquity and covers us with His righteousness.
- Divine Commission: Following Joshua’s cleansing, the angel assures him that if he walks in God’s ways and keeps His charge, he will have a role of authority and service in God’s house. This commission highlights the importance of obedience and holiness in serving God.
As you reflect on Zechariah 3:1-7, consider the following:
- How has God redeemed and cleansed you from your sins?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to experience God’s forgiveness and cleansing?
- What is God calling you to do in His service, and how can you walk in His ways and keep His charge?
This passage reminds us of God’s gracious work of redemption and His call for us to live in holiness and obedience. Take a moment to thank God for His forgiveness and consider how you can walk in His ways today.