Message Outlinne 23Th July 06 - by Ps Jeremy Wong

Not by Might nor by Power Zechariah 4 :4-6
Leave it to God for a change. (Zechariah means God remembers)

Context:
Zerubbabel was the leader of 50 thousands exiles who were returning from Babylon.
These people, most part were children and grandchildren of the Israelites who had been taken captive when Nebuchadnezzar had razed Jerusalem to the ground. Almost 60-70 years has past just as was prophesied by the Prophet Jeremiah
So only those who were captured while very young would be able to come home alive but as very old men – very much like the World War I veterans on a ANZAC day march.

Make no mistake- the devil is out to get you and me!
1. Upon return – they set about doing the work – Great zeal & Euphoria turn to drudgery as they look at the task before them. Daunting obstacles indeed.
2. Limited resources – a barren place with sudden influx of 50,000 people, shortage of food supply, housing etc.
3. Opposition by the local Samaria – the half cast Jews – they instigated the local chiefs – reported to the central Gov --> The Jews had been trying to rebel – "history tell us that this people are a proud and nationalistic people. Don’t let them rebuilt." (These are the people that should be supportive, because they did have some blood relationship!)
4. Preoccupation with other pursuits, get more land, getting a wife – draining their energy, as a result, 10 year have past and the temple was not rebuilt.
5. Then the survivals compared to the old temple – like some of us – comparing with our old church? Subconsciously trying to duplicate the familiar? Well, how could you compare the splendor and greatness of Solomon’s temple?
6. It was at such low point – then God came in – A vision was needed – a revelational word from the Lord was given. Like Moses, 30-40 yrs in the wilderness and we are getting no where Lord! please give us a glimpse of your glory or I’ll give up!
7. Prophet Zechariah – gave a key – turn on the power of GRACE, Charis, gift, favor!

A. What are your “Mighty Mountains”?
I am sure many of you have a mountain be fore you even right now. An obstacle, a heartache and disappointment etc. Finance, children that do not seem to listen? Conflict between spouse that that has become so predictable and a vicious cycle?

B. Do not despise the days of small things
The Lord continued speaking to Zechariah:v10 "Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel." It seems to be a part of human nature to get discouraged easily. We are impatient when we do "small things" for God, because we want to do mighty works for God. In this way, we "despise the day of small things." We should not. We should not "despise" any work of God, big or little.

C. Do not bark up the wrong tree
Zechariah is still curious about the symbolism of the elements in the vision: many would debate as to the precise identity of the olives trees, the pipe, the lampstand etc. It the process, we can bark up the wrong tree.
First, Zechariah asks about the olive trees, then he asks about the two olive branches, from which oil is pouring into the bowl which feeds the lamp. The angel does not answer the first question, thus implying that Zechariah should figure it out for himself. The second question, concerning the olive branches, the angel does answer: "These are the two who are anointed to serve the Lord of all the earth." Given the subjects of these last two visions, the angel is probably referring to Joshua and Zerubbabel, when he speaks of the "two who are anointed."
You see, the principle of God is always about leadership that he anoints – For a country, There are two type of leadership – the civil and spiritual. Here there is Joshua the high priest. Zerubbabel the governor. For a church, it is the Admin. Board & the Senior Pastor or the minister. It is a team work under God, not striving for authority or trying to out smart each other. Where is God in all we do? The Olive Tree is none other than God himself. Jesus said in John 15. I am the vine, you are the branches.

Recapping the main points -AWAKE! - like The angel who called to Zechariah
Adversity is expected - The devil is out to get you and me!
What are your “mountains”?
Are you despising the days of small things?
Know whom you serve
Express your faith by stepping back and shouting “ Grace! Grace!”

Concluding Application & Reiteration
1.Are you facing a daunting task with limited resources?
2.Opposition by those who should be supporting you?
3.People that you depend upon have been distracted by other pursuit? Buying more land, properties, or getting a wife or husband?
4.The tendencies to compare make you feel even more demoralize?
5.Then do something for a change – shout grace!
Grace to let go for a change in your situation – Rebellious children? Hopeless finance? constant conflicts in marriages? Why? May be you always wanted things your way! You may have a fixed mindset! May be you are the biggest problem?
6. Do not despise the days of small things. There lies the seed of your greatness! 7. He who is faithful in little will be faithful in much!

Lastly, If you reckon God has forgotten you – The Very name of the prophet is enough to bring comfort. His name means “Yahweh Remembers!)