On February 3, 1974, Brother Stephen delivered a ministry focused on the Book of Zechariah, emphasizing the importance of returning to God. He highlighted the historical context of the Jewish remnant's return from Babylonian captivity, paralleling it with the need for spiritual recovery today. Stephen stressed that for the testimony of Jesus to be restored, two key elements must be rebuilt: the house of God, representing both individual and corporate lives with God, and the walls of Jerusalem, symbolizing unity among believers. He discussed the prophetic roles of Haggai and Zechariah, noting their complementary ministries in encouraging the remnant to rebuild the temple. Stephen pointed out that God desires a personal relationship with His people, urging them to return to Him with their hearts, rather than merely focusing on their works. He warned against complacency, reminding the congregation that true restoration comes from a heartfelt return to God. The message concluded with a call to recognize God's jealousy for His people and His commitment to restore them with mercy, emphasizing the need for faith and unity in the body of Christ.
Introduction to the ministry and context of Zechariah
Importance of returning to God
Historical background of the Jewish remnant's return
Two key elements for restoration: the house and the walls
Roles of Haggai and Zechariah in encouraging the remnant
God's desire for a personal relationship over mere works
Call to recognize God's jealousy and commitment to His people
Conclusion emphasizing faith and unity in Christ
1 In the eighth month, in the second year of Darius, came the word of the LORD unto Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo the prophet, saying, 2 The LORD hath been sore displeased with your fathers. 3 Therefore say thou unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Turn ye unto me, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. 4 Be ye not as your fathers, unto whom the former prophets have cried, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Turn ye now from your evil ways, and from your evil doings: but they did not hear, nor hearken unto me, saith the LORD. 5 Your fathers, where are they? and the prophets, do they live for ever? 6 But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers? and they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings, so hath he dealt with us.