Zechariah 3:6

Zechariah 3:6 introduces a pivotal moment in the vision of Joshua the High Priest, marking the transition from his symbolic cleansing to a divine declaration. Here, the Angel of the LORD, a significant figure often understood as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, solemnly addresses Joshua, preparing him for the crucial instructions that follow.

Context

This verse is part of Zechariah's series of eight night visions (Zechariah 1-6), which provided encouragement and instruction to the Jewish exiles who had returned from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem and its Temple. The vision immediately preceding this verse (Zechariah 3:1-5) depicts Joshua the High Priest standing before the Angel of the LORD, accused by Satan, and then being cleansed of his filthy garments and reclothed with rich robes, symbolizing the removal of sin and restoration to a place of honor. Verse 6 sets the stage for the conditions and responsibilities laid upon Joshua after this profound act of purification, emphasizing that divine favor comes with a call to faithful obedience.

Meaning and Key Themes

• Divine Admonition and Instruction: The word "protested" (KJV) does not mean to object in a negative sense, but rather to solemnly declare, warn, or admonish. It signifies a serious, authoritative declaration of terms and conditions from the Angel of the LORD to Joshua. This declaration outlines the path to continued blessing and effective service.
• Transition to Responsibility: Having been cleansed and restored, Joshua is now given a charge concerning his conduct and duties. This highlights that divine grace leads to a call for righteous living and faithful service, especially for those in positions of spiritual leadership.
• Conditional Blessings: The subsequent verses (Zechariah 3:7-10) reveal that the promises of continued access to God's presence, oversight of the Temple, and future blessings for the nation are contingent upon Joshua's obedience to God's ways and statutes. This establishes a pattern of God's covenantal relationship.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "protested" is 'ûd (עוּד), which means "to bear witness," "to warn," "to admonish," or "to declare solemnly." It conveys the weight of a divine injunction or a serious declaration, emphasizing the importance of the message being delivered. It is a formal declaration of terms and conditions, not an objection.

Significance and Application

Zechariah 3:6 is a powerful reminder that divine cleansing and restoration are often followed by a clear call to live in accordance with God's will. For Joshua, representing the priestly office and the nation, this meant a renewed commitment to holiness and obedience. For believers today, this verse underscores several truths:

• Holiness Follows Forgiveness: Just as Joshua was cleansed and then instructed, our forgiveness in Christ leads to a call to walk in newness of life. The new creation in Christ involves a commitment to God's ways.
• The Seriousness of God's Word: When God speaks, whether through His written Word or through divine messengers, His declarations carry immense weight and are to be heeded with utmost seriousness.
• Leadership and Accountability: Those in positions of spiritual leadership, like Joshua, bear a significant responsibility to walk uprightly, as their conduct impacts those they lead. The principles of faithfulness and obedience outlined here are crucial for effective ministry.

This verse sets the stage for understanding the conditions of God's continued favor and points toward the perfect High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled all conditions and whose cleansing is complete and eternal (see Hebrews 4:14 and Hebrews 7:26).