Zechariah 4:6
Verse
Context
The Vision of the Lampstand and Olive Trees
5“Do you not know what they are?” replied the angel. “No, my lord,” I answered.6So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts.7What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. Then he will bring forth the capstone accompanied by shouts of ‘Grace, grace to it!’”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel - This prince was in a trying situation, and he needed especial encouragement from God; and here it is: Not by might, (of thy own), nor by power, (authority from others), but by my Spirit - the providence, authority, power, and energy of the Most High. In this way shall my temple be built; in this way shall my Church be raised and preserved. No secular arm, no human prudence, no earthly policy, no suits at law, shall ever be used for the founding, extension, and preservation of my Church. But the spirit of the world says, "These are all means to which as we must have recourse; otherwise the cause of God may be ruined." Satan, thou liest!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Not by might . . . but by my Spirit--As the lamps burned continually, supplied with oil from a source (the living olive trees) which man did not make, so Zerubbabel need not be disheartened because of his weakness; for as the work is one to be effected by the living Spirit (compare Hag 2:5) of God, man's weakness is no obstacle, for God's might will perfect strength out of weakness (Hos 1:7; Co2 12:10; Heb 11:34). "Might and power" express human strength of every description, physical, mental, moral. Or, "might" is the strength of many (an "army"); "power," that of one man [PEMBELLUS] God can save, "whether with many, or with them that have no power" (Ch2 14:11; compare Sa1 14:6). So in the conversion of sinners (Co1 3:6; Co2 10:4). "Zerubbabel" is addressed as the chief civil authority in directing the work.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then he answered, and spake unto me, saying,.... In great condescension, in order to instruct him into the true meaning of the vision: This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel; this signifies what was said by the Lord to Zerubbabel, by some one of the prophets sent unto him: saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts: that is, that as the candlestick was supplied with oil, from the two olive trees by the side of it, without the help of any man, to pour in the oil, and trim the lamps; so the temple should be built by Zerubbabel, not through the multitude and strength of men, but through the Spirit of God, animating, exciting, encouraging, and strengthening them to go through the work. The temple was a type of the church, and Zerubbabel a type of Christ; he was so in the high esteem he was had in by the Lord; he was chosen by him; made as a signet, and was precious to him, Hag 2:23 in his titles and characters, a servant of the Lord, and governor of Judah, Hag 1:1 and in his work, in bringing the Jews out of captivity, and in rebuilding the temple: so Christ is the chosen of God, and exceeding dear and precious to him; is his righteous servant, and Governor of the church, or King of saints; and who has redeemed and delivered his people from the captivity of sin, and Satan, and the law; and is the builder of his church; who has laid the foundation of it, and will bring in the headstone; and which church is built up in all generations through the conversion of sinners; and that is done, not by external force, by carnal weapons, or moral persuasion; but by the sword of the Spirit, the word of God; and not by the power of man's free will, but by the efficacious grace of the divine Spirit: it is indeed done by power and might, but not of the creature: man, whatever power he has to do things natural, civil, outwardly religions, and materially moral, or however in appearance, has no power to do anything spiritually good; not to think a good thought, nor do a good action, in a spiritual manner; much less to work such a work as the work of regeneration, conversion, and sanctification; since he is dead in sin, and can not quicken himself; his understanding is darkened, yea, darkness itself, and he can not command light into it; his will is stubborn and obstinate, and he can not bend it, and subdue it; his heart is hard as a nether millstone, and he cannot soften it, and repent of his sins, in a truly spiritual, gracious, anti-evangelic manner; his affections are inordinate; and he is a lover of sinful pleasures, and not of God, nor of anything divine, to which his carnal mind is enmity; he cannot believe in Christ of himself; faith is not of himself, it is the gift of God, and so is repentance, and every other grace. The work of grace on the soul is expressed by a regeneration, a resurrection from the dead, a creation, and the new man, or a transformation of a man into another man; all which require almighty power to effect: regeneration is not of the will of man, nor of the will of the flesh, but of God, of Jehovah the Spirit: sanctification is called the sanctification of the Spirit, and every grace of it is a fruit of his; it is he who is the Spirit of life from Christ, that quickens men when dead in trespasses and sins, and enlightens their dark minds with spiritual light, in divine things; it is he that produces evangelical repentance in them, and faith in Christ is of his operation; it is he that begins the work of grace on the heart, and carries it on, and causes to abound in the exercise of every grace, and performs the work of faith with power. The Targum, instead of "by my Spirit", renders it "by my Word".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:6 Jeshua and Zerubbabel would have success in the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple, not by their own force or strength, but because of the presence of God’s empowering Spirit (cp. Hag 2:4-5).
Zechariah 4:6
The Vision of the Lampstand and Olive Trees
5“Do you not know what they are?” replied the angel. “No, my lord,” I answered.6So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts.7What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. Then he will bring forth the capstone accompanied by shouts of ‘Grace, grace to it!’”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Exodus) Exodus 12:1-2
By J. Vernon McGee5.4K03:22ExpositionalEXO 12:1EXO 13:14ZEC 4:6MAT 26:28ACT 1:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the significance of the Passover feast and the death of the firstborn. He emphasizes that redemption is achieved through the blood of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. The preacher highlights the importance of the family in the building of a nation, as seen in the story of Israel's exodus from Egypt. The sermon concludes with the introduction of the institution of the Passover and the recognition of Jesus as our Passover sacrifice.
(Reformation Within Protestantism): Real and Practical Beliefs
By A.W. Tozer3.9K46:50ReformationPSA 119:105ISA 40:8ZEC 4:6MAT 6:332TI 3:16HEB 13:8JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the radical changes that have occurred in the world since Jesus' time, such as the industrial and communicational revolutions. These changes have not forced God to modify His plans for His Church and mankind. The speaker also talks about the decline of moral protest in Protestantism and the rise of people who talk about God but do not truly understand or follow the teachings of the Bible. The main thesis of the sermon is that there is a need for a radical reformation in Protestant circles, specifically in our practical beliefs about God's design for mankind.
(Exodus) Exodus 27:9-21
By J. Vernon McGee3.7K03:34ExodusEXO 27:20EXO 30:1EXO 30:18ZEC 4:6MAT 5:14REV 1:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance of light in the Bible and its connection to Christ. The speaker explains that while Jesus was on earth, he referred to himself as the light of the world. However, now that Jesus has ascended to heaven, believers are called to be the light of the world, with the help of the Holy Spirit. The sermon also explores the symbolism of the gate of the court in the tabernacle, which represents the entrance to God's presence and is adorned with colors that represent Christ's heavenly origin, his humanity, and his shed blood. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of the Holy Spirit, represented by the oil for the light, in enabling believers to shine as lights in the world.
The Power of the Holy Spirit
By J. Edwin Orr3.2K21:34Power of the Holy SpiritPSA 80:18PSA 85:6PSA 139:23ZEC 4:6MAT 9:38ACT 3:19ACT 13:2In this sermon, the preacher uses various illustrations to convey his message. He starts by talking about a farmer and his tractor, highlighting the importance of having the right tools and being well-organized. He then shares the story of a migrant worker who approaches the bus instead of asking the workers for a job, emphasizing the need to go directly to the source. The preacher also discusses the concept of the Trinity, explaining that while there is no perfect analogy, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one essence. Finally, he talks about the disciples' expectation of the restoration of the kingdom and Jesus' response, emphasizing the importance of receiving power from the Holy Spirit to fulfill the great commission.
(Men Who Saw God) 4. Joshua
By Roy Hession3.0K54:42JoshuaJOS 6:20ISA 6:1ZEC 4:6MAT 6:33LUK 24:36ACT 9:3REV 2:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho. Joshua, feeling inadequate with his small army, encounters a man with a drawn sword who reveals himself as the captain of the host of the Lord. The preacher emphasizes that victory is never in doubt when God is the captain and His spirit is at work. He encourages the audience to have a personal relationship with God and to surrender their own ideas and initiatives to His guidance. The sermon also includes a testimony of revival in South Africa, where churches experienced a transformation when they let go of their own efforts and allowed God to work through them.
Apostleship - Part 4
By Norman Grubb2.7K09:50ApostleshipJOS 1:9JOS 3:2ZEC 4:6MAT 17:20MAT 21:21MRK 11:23LUK 17:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of having faith in God and how it relates to overcoming obstacles. The sermon references Joshua's command to cross the river and conquer the Promised Land as an example of having faith in God's promises. The speaker emphasizes the importance of filling in the "blank check" that God gives us with our desires and trusting that He will provide. The sermon also mentions the speaker's own experiences of seeing God's provision and the growth of their mission over the years.
Revival - Part 3
By J.I. Packer2.1K1:09:58PSA 81:11PSA 85:4ZEC 4:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Zechariah chapter four and verse one, which describes a vision of a solid gold lampstand with seven lights and two olive trees. The speaker emphasizes that this vision represents the word of the Lord to the rubble, emphasizing that God's work is not accomplished by human might or power, but by His spirit. The speaker also expresses gratitude for the fellowship and singing at the conference they are attending. Additionally, the speaker clarifies that the conference is not a political movement, but rather a gathering for the personal edification of pastors, elders, deacons, and members of Baptist churches.
Godsword Season Episode 63
By Ken Graves2.0K29:27PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6LUK 1:37HEB 11:6JAS 4:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's truth and responding to His word with faith, drawing parallels between the reactions of Zechariah and Mary to angelic messages. It highlights the significance of surrendering to God's will, trusting in His power to do the impossible, and choosing faith over doubt in our walk with Him.
The Coming Final Persecution
By Steven J. Lawson1.9K1:02:57PSA 23:4ZEC 4:6MAT 10:34MAT 24:14MRK 13:9PHP 1:6This sermon delves into the prophetic warnings of persecution and betrayal in the last days as outlined in Mark chapter 13. Jesus foretells the intense animosity believers will face, even from their own families, emphasizing the need for spiritual alertness and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Despite the escalating opposition, the message encourages believers to endure faithfully to the end, trusting in God's sustaining grace and the assurance of salvation.
Make a Difference
By Jim Cymbala1.9K26:15ServingZEC 4:6MAT 14:13MRK 6:30LUK 9:10LUK 15:11JHN 12:24In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Jesus feeding the multitude with loaves and fishes, which is mentioned multiple times in the Bible. The speaker questions why this story is emphasized and why it was not used again in the history of the church to provide food for starving people. The speaker suggests that this story is a metaphor for how ministry works and emphasizes the importance of making a difference in people's lives. The sermon concludes with the idea that when God gives us a burden or opportunity, there will always be a problem, but we should welcome it and trust in God's provision.
(Through the Bible) Zechariah 1-5
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:29:50Through The BibleMIC 4:3ZEC 3:1ZEC 4:1ZEC 4:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the second vision of the prophet Zachariah. The vision begins with Zachariah seeing a man with a measuring line in his hand, who is tasked with measuring Jerusalem. The angel explains that Jerusalem will expand beyond its walls and become inhabited by a multitude of people and animals. The vision then shifts to four horns, representing four kingdoms that have scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem. However, the Lord shows Zachariah four carpenters who will come to carve out and remove the horns of these Gentile kingdoms. The sermon emphasizes the fulfillment of these prophecies and the constancy of God's word.
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.
God So Loved
By Les Wheeldon1.7K1:04:35Love Of GodHAG 1:14ZEC 4:6MAT 7:7MAT 16:18MAT 18:19MRK 4:35HEB 10:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the powerful message of God's love and the impact it should have on believers. He highlights that God's love is not just an idea, but a reality that has already been demonstrated through the giving of His Son and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. The preacher encourages listeners to believe in this love and to understand that God has provided everything they need to live right and overcome challenges. He also warns against the dangers of withdrawing from the work of God, as seen in the example of the people who stopped working on the building site in the book of Ezra. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the unchangeable and generous nature of God's love, which is available to all who believe.
Why Is God's Strength Made Perfect in Our Weakness
By Carter Conlon1.6K53:59PSA 51:7PSA 139:23ISA 6:1ZEC 4:6MAT 9:20ACT 1:8ROM 3:231CO 1:26COL 1:16HEB 4:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's strength in our weakness, highlighting the need for humility, mercy, and reliance on God's power. It explores the transformative power of God's mercy and the call to share the message of salvation with others, regardless of personal weaknesses or limitations.
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 Overflow
By Jim Cymbala1.5K13:49Holy SpiritISA 44:3ZEC 4:6MAT 6:33JHN 4:14JHN 7:37ACT 2:38In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the prophecy given by Jesus in John 7. Jesus stood up on the last day of a feast and proclaimed in a loud voice that anyone who is thirsty should come to him and drink. He promised that those who believe in him will have streams or rivers of living water flowing from within them, which he explained to be the Holy Spirit. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having the Holy Spirit in our lives and desires to build a church where the presence of God is felt through the flowing river of the Spirit.
When Overwhelmed by the Task
By Chuck Smith1.4K36:42PSA 33:1JER 32:17ZEC 4:6JHN 21:1GAL 3:3This sermon focuses on the importance of relying on God's Spirit rather than human might or power to overcome challenges and accomplish tasks. It emphasizes the need to surrender our limitations and trust in God's ability to work in our lives, even when faced with discouragement or seemingly impossible situations.
Fresh Oil - Part 5
By Jack Hyles1.4K09:43PSA 92:10ZEC 4:6ACT 1:8EPH 5:182TI 1:6This sermon emphasizes the need for a fresh anointing of God's power in our lives, highlighting personal experiences of feeling unqualified but empowered by God's Spirit. It calls for a continuous yielding to the Holy Spirit and a constant prayer for God's power to work through us, enabling us to fulfill our calling and share the gospel effectively.
The Canadian Revival - Part 8
By Bill McLeod1.4K08:572CH 7:14PSA 85:6PSA 133:1PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6MAT 18:19ACT 2:1ROM 12:2EPH 5:18JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the need for true revival in the church, highlighting past experiences where external efforts did not bring about lasting change until a genuine revival took place. It shares stories of God's providence and intervention in bringing about revival, emphasizing the importance of humility, transparency, and prayer in seeking revival. The speaker encourages believers to take chances for God, trust in His guidance, and seek revival through united prayer and a reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Fresh Oil - Part 3
By Jack Hyles1.4K09:371SA 16:13PSA 51:10ZEC 4:6LUK 11:13ACT 1:8EPH 5:182TI 1:7JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the necessity for spirit-filled preachers who are empowered by God to lead and impact the nation. It recounts a personal journey of seeking the power of God, highlighting the transformation and impact that occurred through persistent prayer and surrender. The message stresses the ongoing need for fresh anointing and power in ministry, not relying on past experiences but seeking a continuous outpouring of God's Spirit.
Conduct Worthy of the Gospel
By Shane Idleman1.4K51:37GospelISA 1:18JER 29:11EZK 36:26DAN 10:12JOL 2:28AMO 5:24JON 2:9MIC 6:8NAM 1:7HAB 3:17ZEP 3:17HAG 2:9ZEC 4:6MAL 3:10The video tells the story of a boy who falls multiple times while running a race. Each time he falls, he feels embarrassed and wants to give up. However, his father's encouraging look motivates him to keep getting up and trying again. Despite the boy's setbacks, he eventually finds the determination to keep going and tries his best to catch up to the other runners. The video emphasizes the importance of perseverance and not giving up, even when faced with failure or difficult circumstances.
Mountains Brought Down
By Jim Cymbala1.4K37:31FaithGEN 22:14PSA 121:1ISA 54:17ZEC 4:6MAT 7:21MAT 28:19REV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not giving up and staying strong in the face of challenges. He uses the example of the people rebuilding the walls and facing attacks from enemies. The preacher then discusses a vision that Zechariah had, where he saw a solid gold lampstand with seven lights and two olive trees. The preacher also shares a personal story about a shy girl who had a vision of leading people from different nations in praising God. The sermon concludes with a reminder that it is the Holy Spirit who empowers and encourages us to overcome our mountains.
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.
Beauty for Ashes - Day 1
By Carter Conlon1.3K44:01HaitiEXO 14:13JDG 6:12JDG 6:25ZEC 4:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God often chooses to work through one person to bring about deliverance and freedom. He encourages listeners to respond to God's call with a sincere heart and stand boldly in the power of God. The speaker uses the example of Gideon and the 300 people God chose to defeat their enemies as evidence of God's ability to work through a few individuals. He urges listeners to trust in God's strength rather than relying on human strategies and to declare the glory of God without shame or compromise.
Power to Be
By Chuck Smith1.3K32:42JOL 2:28JOL 2:32ZEC 4:6ACT 1:8ACT 2:38ROM 7:18ROM 8:26PHP 3:12This sermon focuses on the power of the Holy Spirit to transform our lives, emphasizing the need for God's Spirit to enable us to be true witnesses of Jesus Christ. It highlights the importance of seeking the Holy Spirit's power for personal growth, acknowledging our weaknesses, and relying on God's strength to make necessary changes in our lives. The message underscores the promise of the Holy Spirit as seen in Acts chapter 1 and Joel, encouraging believers to call upon the name of the Lord for salvation and empowerment.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel - This prince was in a trying situation, and he needed especial encouragement from God; and here it is: Not by might, (of thy own), nor by power, (authority from others), but by my Spirit - the providence, authority, power, and energy of the Most High. In this way shall my temple be built; in this way shall my Church be raised and preserved. No secular arm, no human prudence, no earthly policy, no suits at law, shall ever be used for the founding, extension, and preservation of my Church. But the spirit of the world says, "These are all means to which as we must have recourse; otherwise the cause of God may be ruined." Satan, thou liest!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Not by might . . . but by my Spirit--As the lamps burned continually, supplied with oil from a source (the living olive trees) which man did not make, so Zerubbabel need not be disheartened because of his weakness; for as the work is one to be effected by the living Spirit (compare Hag 2:5) of God, man's weakness is no obstacle, for God's might will perfect strength out of weakness (Hos 1:7; Co2 12:10; Heb 11:34). "Might and power" express human strength of every description, physical, mental, moral. Or, "might" is the strength of many (an "army"); "power," that of one man [PEMBELLUS] God can save, "whether with many, or with them that have no power" (Ch2 14:11; compare Sa1 14:6). So in the conversion of sinners (Co1 3:6; Co2 10:4). "Zerubbabel" is addressed as the chief civil authority in directing the work.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then he answered, and spake unto me, saying,.... In great condescension, in order to instruct him into the true meaning of the vision: This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel; this signifies what was said by the Lord to Zerubbabel, by some one of the prophets sent unto him: saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts: that is, that as the candlestick was supplied with oil, from the two olive trees by the side of it, without the help of any man, to pour in the oil, and trim the lamps; so the temple should be built by Zerubbabel, not through the multitude and strength of men, but through the Spirit of God, animating, exciting, encouraging, and strengthening them to go through the work. The temple was a type of the church, and Zerubbabel a type of Christ; he was so in the high esteem he was had in by the Lord; he was chosen by him; made as a signet, and was precious to him, Hag 2:23 in his titles and characters, a servant of the Lord, and governor of Judah, Hag 1:1 and in his work, in bringing the Jews out of captivity, and in rebuilding the temple: so Christ is the chosen of God, and exceeding dear and precious to him; is his righteous servant, and Governor of the church, or King of saints; and who has redeemed and delivered his people from the captivity of sin, and Satan, and the law; and is the builder of his church; who has laid the foundation of it, and will bring in the headstone; and which church is built up in all generations through the conversion of sinners; and that is done, not by external force, by carnal weapons, or moral persuasion; but by the sword of the Spirit, the word of God; and not by the power of man's free will, but by the efficacious grace of the divine Spirit: it is indeed done by power and might, but not of the creature: man, whatever power he has to do things natural, civil, outwardly religions, and materially moral, or however in appearance, has no power to do anything spiritually good; not to think a good thought, nor do a good action, in a spiritual manner; much less to work such a work as the work of regeneration, conversion, and sanctification; since he is dead in sin, and can not quicken himself; his understanding is darkened, yea, darkness itself, and he can not command light into it; his will is stubborn and obstinate, and he can not bend it, and subdue it; his heart is hard as a nether millstone, and he cannot soften it, and repent of his sins, in a truly spiritual, gracious, anti-evangelic manner; his affections are inordinate; and he is a lover of sinful pleasures, and not of God, nor of anything divine, to which his carnal mind is enmity; he cannot believe in Christ of himself; faith is not of himself, it is the gift of God, and so is repentance, and every other grace. The work of grace on the soul is expressed by a regeneration, a resurrection from the dead, a creation, and the new man, or a transformation of a man into another man; all which require almighty power to effect: regeneration is not of the will of man, nor of the will of the flesh, but of God, of Jehovah the Spirit: sanctification is called the sanctification of the Spirit, and every grace of it is a fruit of his; it is he who is the Spirit of life from Christ, that quickens men when dead in trespasses and sins, and enlightens their dark minds with spiritual light, in divine things; it is he that produces evangelical repentance in them, and faith in Christ is of his operation; it is he that begins the work of grace on the heart, and carries it on, and causes to abound in the exercise of every grace, and performs the work of faith with power. The Targum, instead of "by my Spirit", renders it "by my Word".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:6 Jeshua and Zerubbabel would have success in the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple, not by their own force or strength, but because of the presence of God’s empowering Spirit (cp. Hag 2:4-5).