Zechariah 4:10
Verse
Context
The Vision of the Lampstand and Olive Trees
9“The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent me to you. 10For who has despised the day of small things? But these seven eyes of the LORD, which scan the whole earth, will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who hath despised the day of small things? - The poverty, weakness, and unbefriended state of the Jews. It was said, "What do these feeble Jews?" "Will they build," etc.? No. But God will build by them, and perfect his building too. And shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel - He is master builder under God, the grand architect. Those seven - are the eyes of the Lord - Either referring to his particular and especial providence; or to those ministering spirits, whom he has employed in behalf of the Jews, to dispense the blessings of that providence. See Ch2 16:9 (note); Pro 15:3 (note); Zac 3:9 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
who . . . despised . . . small things--He reproves their ungrateful unbelief, which they felt because of the humble beginning, compared with the greatness of the undertaking; and encourages them with the assurance that their progress in the work, though small, was an earnest of great and final success, because Jehovah's eye is upon Zerubbabel and the work, to support Him with His favor. Contrast, "great is the day of Jezreel" (Hos 1:11) with "the day of small things" here. they shall rejoice . . . with those seven; they are the eyes of the Lord--rather, "they, even those seven eyes of the Lord (compare Zac 3:9), which . . . shall rejoice and see (that is, rejoicingly see) the plummet (literally, the 'stone of tin') in the hand of Zerubbabel" [MOORE]; the plummet in his hand indicating that the work is going forward to its completion. The Hebrew punctuation, however, favors English Version, of which the sense is, They who incredulously "despised" such "small" beginnings of the work as are made now, shall rejoicingly see its going on to completion under Zerubbabel, "with (the aid of) those seven," namely, the "seven eyes upon one stone" (Zac 3:9): which are explained, "They are the eyes of the Lord which," &c. [PEMBELLUS]. So differently do men and Jehovah regard the "small" beginnings of God's work (Ezr 3:12; Hag 2:3). Men "despised" the work in its early stage: God rejoicingly regards it, and shall continue to do so. run to and fro, &c.--Nothing in the whole earth escapes the eye of Jehovah, so that He can ward off all danger from His people, come from what quarter it may, in prosecuting His work (Pro 15:3; Co1 16:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then answered I, and said unto him,.... To the angel that talked with him, Zac 4:1, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick, and upon the left side thereof? in Zac 4:2 they are said to be on each side of the bowl. The mystery of the candlestick being explained to Zechariah by the angel, the prophet desires to know the meaning of the two olive trees that were on the right and left of it, one on one side, and the other on the other side.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:10 A plumb line, a cord with a tin or lead weight attached to one end, is used in construction to ensure that a wall is vertical. • The seven lamps: Seven signifies completeness or perfection. God sees all that takes place on earth; he controls the fates of peoples and nations.
Zechariah 4:10
The Vision of the Lampstand and Olive Trees
9“The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent me to you. 10For who has despised the day of small things? But these seven eyes of the LORD, which scan the whole earth, will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
God's Standard of Values
By T. Austin-Sparks4.6K28:55ValuesHAG 2:3ZEC 4:10MAL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ in everything we do. He mentions the slogan "Attempt great things for God. Expect great things from God," and explains that it signifies God's attention and involvement in our lives. The speaker refers to the book of remembrance in which God records the names of those who fear Him and have a vision for His purposes. He also highlights the prophecies of Zechariah and their connection to the Lord Jesus, emphasizing the eternal significance of His kingdom.
Gods Standard of Values
By T. Austin-Sparks2.9K28:55ValuesHAG 2:3ZEC 4:10MAL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ and His purpose in our lives. He highlights the significance of having a vision and being willing to suffer for it. The speaker refers to the book of remembrance in the Bible, where God takes note of those who fear Him and are committed to His purpose. The sermon also warns against the danger of false judgments and the need to align our perspectives with eternal standards.
Hungry for God
By Gerhard Du Toit2.6K1:02:58Hunger For GodEXO 34:29HOS 10:12ZEC 4:10MAT 5:1MAT 6:5MAT 6:16MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of having a strong relationship with God and with fellow believers. He shares a story about a week of prayer in a church where revival broke out after a powerful sermon was read. The preacher emphasizes the need for genuine hunger and thirst for God's presence and revival. He also mentions the current state of his home country, South Africa, and the alarming rate of crime and violence. The sermon concludes with a reminder to seek God in the secret place and to prioritize prayer for revival.
The Expectations of the Righteous
By Carter Conlon2.4K1:01:09RighteousnessPSA 23:1PSA 30:4ISA 51:11ZEC 4:10MAT 6:33ROM 8:32EPH 5:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence in our lives. He encourages believers to not despise small beginnings, as it is evidence that God is with them. The preacher highlights the supernatural love that develops in marriages when Christ is at the center. He also emphasizes the need to heed God's voice and walk in His strength, as it leads to a life filled with extraordinary works and victory over enemies. The sermon references scriptures such as Zechariah 4:6, Psalm 81:13-16, and Numbers to support these teachings.
Ezra #3: Reasons for an Incomplete Temple, Part 1
By Ed Miller2.0K59:33TempleDAN 2:22MIC 4:7ZEC 4:8ZEC 4:10In this sermon, the speaker starts by discussing the reasons why the work on the temple stopped in Ezra chapter 4. He explains that the people were forced to stop by the government, who had weapons and threatened to kill them. The speaker then turns to Zechariah chapter 4 and highlights the importance of not despising the day of small things. He references the vision of the seven-pronged candlestick and the two olive trees, explaining that these represent the characteristics of those who have come to the foundation but have not built. The speaker emphasizes that the secrets of temple building lie in understanding these principles.
Small Things Are Big Things
By Teresa Conlon1.9K52:56ZEC 4:10MAT 13:31This sermon emphasizes the significance of seemingly small things in our spiritual life, highlighting how even the tiniest seed of faith or sin can have a profound impact. It urges listeners not to despise small beginnings or overlook small sins, as they can hinder the fullness of God's purpose. The message stresses the need for humility, repentance, and surrender to God in addressing these areas to experience transformation and fulfill God's intended plan.
(Through the Bible) Zephaniah & Haggai
By Chuck Smith1.9K1:32:21Through The BibleZEC 4:2ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10ZEC 4:12ZEC 4:14MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Zechariah, specifically chapter four. The preacher describes a vision in which an angel wakes him up and shows him a golden candlestick with seven lamps and two olive trees. The preacher emphasizes that the only hope for the world is Jesus Christ and warns against a false savior who will ultimately bring chaos. The preacher also highlights the need for people to consider their ways and turn to God for salvation in the midst of societal sickness and crime.
Who Hath Despised the Day of Small Things
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K29:07Small ThingsISA 40:31HAG 2:3ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAL 3:16MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a vision and suffering for it in our hearts. God values those who hold onto their vision despite trials and testing. The speaker encourages listeners to shift their perspective from temporal ways of viewing things to eternal standards. The sermon references passages from the books of Zechariah, Haggai, and Malachi to illustrate how God values seemingly small and despised things that have potential.
The Power of the Holy Spirit of God
By Ian Paisley1.5K33:44ECC 9:14ZEC 4:1ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAT 6:33JHN 14:6HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the story of the poor wise man from Ecclesiastes chapter 9, verses 14 to 18. The preacher emphasizes that although the world may see the poor wise man as powerless, he is actually wise in the eyes of God. The preacher highlights the importance of the inward wisdom of the spirit of God and how it can make someone more than a conqueror. The sermon also emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as a guide in our lives and the need to abandon ourselves to the Holy Spirit for true spiritual growth. The preacher references the Book of Zechariah, specifically chapter 4, to further illustrate the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit.
The Humility of God
By Dean Stump1.4K1:15:23HumilityZEC 4:10MAT 6:33LUK 16:102CO 4:18PHP 1:231TI 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility of God and how it should be reflected in our lives. He refers to Zechariah chapter four, highlighting the attention to detail that God has and how we should also pay attention to the small things in life. The preacher encourages the audience not to despise the day of small things, emphasizing the importance of how we live our lives, spend our money, and use our time. He shares a personal story of a friend who nearly died and questions why it takes such experiences for us to see God in a greater way.
Recovery Through the Prophets: Isaiah
By Stephen Kaung1.4K1:11:59RecoveryZEC 3:1ZEC 3:10ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10ZEC 4:14MAT 6:33In this sermon on Zechariah chapter 4, the speaker emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit rather than human might or power in building the house of God and maintaining the testimony of Jesus. The speaker explains that natural influence and energy can actually hinder the work of God and destroy His house. The message is that true success in the kingdom of God comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit and humbly serving as a servant. The speaker also highlights the symbolism in Zechariah's vision of the golden lampstand with seven lamps and seven pipes, representing the abundant supply of the Holy Spirit needed for the testimony of Jesus to shine.
By the Spirit
By John Chubik5821:10:26Holy Spirit2CH 16:9PSA 37:4PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAT 6:33PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the limitless power of God and how He can do anything at any moment. The preacher shares a missionary's testimony about how God can accomplish more in one second than a person can in their entire life. The sermon then focuses on the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and the four big questions about the Holy Spirit that need to be answered. The preacher encourages the audience to recognize and embrace the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, as it is God's desire for them to experience His best and walk in His power.
Building the House of Prayer: A Prophetic Call to Action (Hag. 2)
By Mike Bickle261:07:34Building the House of PrayerPerseverance in FaithEZR 1:1EZR 6:14NEH 12:45ISA 56:7JER 29:10HAG 1:7HAG 2:3ZEC 4:10MAT 6:10REV 4:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the prophetic call to build the house of prayer as illustrated in Haggai's messages to the Israelites in 520 BC. He draws parallels between their struggles and the challenges faced by modern houses of prayer, urging believers to recognize the significance of their work in the context of God's eternal purpose. Bickle highlights the importance of perseverance, spiritual resolve, and the understanding that their efforts contribute to a greater divine narrative that connects past, present, and future worship sanctuaries. He encourages the community to see beyond immediate challenges and to embrace the calling to create a place of continuous worship and prayer.
Encouragement When There Is Defeat
By Peter Brandon745:50Encouragement in DefeatEmpowerment by the Holy SpiritZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAT 17:20JHN 7:39ACT 1:8ROM 8:311CO 1:272CO 12:9EPH 5:14PHP 4:13Peter Brandon emphasizes the need for encouragement in times of defeat, drawing from Zechariah 4 to illustrate that true strength comes not from human might or power, but from the Spirit of the Lord. He highlights the historical context of the Israelites returning to rebuild Jerusalem amidst despair and opposition, reminding listeners that God can use small beginnings to achieve great outcomes. Brandon encourages believers to remain steadfast in their service to God, regardless of their circumstances, and to seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment for revival. He concludes with a call to recognize the potential of small acts of faith and the importance of humility in God's work.
Know Your Birthright in Christ
By Zac Poonen0GEN 12:32KI 4:1PRO 11:25EZK 47:1ZEC 4:10GAL 3:13Zac Poonen preaches on God's desire to bless the world through us by empowering us with His Spirit to free people from Satan's grip and fears. Just like the widow in Elisha's time, when we pour out God's blessings into the lives of others, there will be more than enough to help everyone we encounter, leading to blessings in our neighborhoods. By being a blessing to others, we also receive blessings from God, fulfilling the promise of the Spirit through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
Preached Before the Governor and Council, and the House of Assembly, in Georgia, on January 28, 1770. (Zech. 4:10)
By George Whitefield0ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAT 17:201CO 1:27PHP 1:6George Whitefield preaches about the importance of not despising the day of small beginnings, using the example of Zechariah strengthening Zerubbabel to build the temple. He emphasizes that God often works through small and unlikely means to bring about great things, such as the growth of Christianity from humble beginnings. Whitefield shares the history of the Orphan-house in Georgia, highlighting the challenges faced and the divine providence that sustained the project. He encourages the congregation to trust in God's sovereignty and to continue to support the work of the ministry, believing that God will bring about great things from seemingly insignificant starts.
The Day of Small Things Not to Be Despised.
By Edward Payson0ZEC 4:10LUK 16:101CO 1:27PHP 1:61TH 5:24Edward Payson preaches on the importance of not despising the day of small things, using the example of the rebuilding of the temple after the Babylonish captivity. He emphasizes that in God's works, especially in works of grace, there is usually a humble beginning before greatness. Payson warns against despising small beginnings, as they are often the foundation for greater things to come. He highlights that even God, angels, and Jesus do not despise small beginnings, as they see the value and potential in them. Payson urges individuals to appreciate and cultivate the small beginnings of faith and grace in their lives, as they are the seeds for future growth and blessings.
On Christian Motives
By Thomas Reade01SA 16:71CH 28:2PRO 16:2ZEC 4:10MAT 6:1ROM 14:231CO 13:12CO 5:7COL 3:17HEB 11:17Thomas Reade preaches about the importance of examining the motives behind our actions in Christianity, emphasizing the need to act from a place of faith and love rather than seeking human approval or recognition. He contrasts the actions of those who perform religious duties for show with those who do so with sincerity and humility, highlighting the significance of genuine faith in Jesus Christ. Reade urges self-examination to ensure that our actions are pleasing to God and rooted in a desire to glorify His name, warning against the dangers of self-seeking and vanity in our service to God.
"Not by Might, Not by an Army, Not by Power, but by My Spirit, Saith the Lord of Hosts"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Overcoming OppositionDependence on the Holy SpiritNEH 8:10ISA 40:29ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAT 17:20ROM 8:311CO 1:272CO 12:9PHP 3:10HEB 2:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the message from Zechariah 4:6, illustrating that God's work is accomplished not through human strength or military might, but by His Spirit. He reflects on the historical and spiritual setbacks faced by God's people, noting that while many may give up, a faithful remnant recognizes the need to honor God's name and act. Sparks encourages believers to understand that even in their smallness and opposition, they are empowered by the Holy Spirit to achieve God's purposes. He highlights the importance of unity and purity in the vessels God uses, which are formed through suffering and discipline. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on God's Spirit to accomplish His work, assuring that His resources are inexhaustible.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who hath despised the day of small things? - The poverty, weakness, and unbefriended state of the Jews. It was said, "What do these feeble Jews?" "Will they build," etc.? No. But God will build by them, and perfect his building too. And shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel - He is master builder under God, the grand architect. Those seven - are the eyes of the Lord - Either referring to his particular and especial providence; or to those ministering spirits, whom he has employed in behalf of the Jews, to dispense the blessings of that providence. See Ch2 16:9 (note); Pro 15:3 (note); Zac 3:9 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
who . . . despised . . . small things--He reproves their ungrateful unbelief, which they felt because of the humble beginning, compared with the greatness of the undertaking; and encourages them with the assurance that their progress in the work, though small, was an earnest of great and final success, because Jehovah's eye is upon Zerubbabel and the work, to support Him with His favor. Contrast, "great is the day of Jezreel" (Hos 1:11) with "the day of small things" here. they shall rejoice . . . with those seven; they are the eyes of the Lord--rather, "they, even those seven eyes of the Lord (compare Zac 3:9), which . . . shall rejoice and see (that is, rejoicingly see) the plummet (literally, the 'stone of tin') in the hand of Zerubbabel" [MOORE]; the plummet in his hand indicating that the work is going forward to its completion. The Hebrew punctuation, however, favors English Version, of which the sense is, They who incredulously "despised" such "small" beginnings of the work as are made now, shall rejoicingly see its going on to completion under Zerubbabel, "with (the aid of) those seven," namely, the "seven eyes upon one stone" (Zac 3:9): which are explained, "They are the eyes of the Lord which," &c. [PEMBELLUS]. So differently do men and Jehovah regard the "small" beginnings of God's work (Ezr 3:12; Hag 2:3). Men "despised" the work in its early stage: God rejoicingly regards it, and shall continue to do so. run to and fro, &c.--Nothing in the whole earth escapes the eye of Jehovah, so that He can ward off all danger from His people, come from what quarter it may, in prosecuting His work (Pro 15:3; Co1 16:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then answered I, and said unto him,.... To the angel that talked with him, Zac 4:1, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick, and upon the left side thereof? in Zac 4:2 they are said to be on each side of the bowl. The mystery of the candlestick being explained to Zechariah by the angel, the prophet desires to know the meaning of the two olive trees that were on the right and left of it, one on one side, and the other on the other side.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:10 A plumb line, a cord with a tin or lead weight attached to one end, is used in construction to ensure that a wall is vertical. • The seven lamps: Seven signifies completeness or perfection. God sees all that takes place on earth; he controls the fates of peoples and nations.