Zechariah Sermon Series: Sermon 26
2-16-25 – Jerry Mongello
Zechariah 10 – Part 1
Prayer
We will be studying Zechariah 10. First, remember that the separation of chapters and verses was man-made, and sometimes they got it wrong. Zechariah 9:17 and Zechariah 10:1 should go together. In this chapter, we get a picture of the millennial kingdom, physical blessings, and spiritual growth/blessings. The prophet contrasts the law and grace. The purpose of the law was to convict the Hebrews of sin, drawing them to the realization that the law couldn’t save them because people cannot keep the law in their own strength. The law was meant to draw them to God, the only one who could keep the law and save mankind.
Chapter 10 also emphasizes that worshiping Canaanite gods (false gods) led God to discipline the Hebrews. God points out that these idols cannot make it rain. The chapter also addresses false prophets, false dreams, and diviners preaching lies and offering false comfort. God becomes angry because His flock has no shepherd.
Zechariah 9:17 – Zechariah 10:1 (NKJV)
Zechariah 9:17 – For how great its/His goodness is, And how great its/His beauty! Grain shall make the young men thrive, And new wine the young women.
Zechariah 10:1 – Ask the LORD for rain In the time of the latter rain. The LORD will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, Grass in the field for everyone.
The latter rain is literal rain in the spring, a gentle shower to bring the fruit of the crops and grass of the fields to maturity. However, the promise extends beyond earthly prosperity; it also represents spiritual blessings and maturity, particularly for the nation of Israel. Rain in due season, ensuring land productivity, was a direct reward for the nation’s obedience to its covenant relationship with the LORD (The Law).
Biblical References on Rain as Blessing
Leviticus 26:1-7 (NKJV) – God promises rain and prosperity for obedience.
Joel 2:23-24 (NKJV) – Rain symbolizes restoration and blessings.
Luke 11:9-13 (NKJV) – Jesus encourages believers to ask for the Holy Spirit, just as they would ask for daily needs.
The Law vs. Grace – Why the Law Was Given
One key lesson in Zechariah 10 is that the law was never meant to save people but to lead them to God.
- The law was a tutor, revealing sin and showing that humanity is incapable of righteousness on its own.
- The law convicted Israel of their failures, pointing them to the need for a Savior—Jesus Christ, the only One who could perfectly keep the law.
Galatians 3:24 (NKJV) – Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Romans 3:20 (NKJV) – By the deeds of the law, no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Application
We are not called to legalism, but we also cannot take grace as a license to sin. Instead, we obey God out of love because He first loved us (John 14:23-24).
False Idols and Deception – The Danger of Following Lies
Zechariah 10:2 (NKJV) – For the idols speak delusion; The diviners envision lies, And tell false dreams; They comfort in vain. Therefore [the people] wend their way like sheep; They are in trouble because [there is] no shepherd.
Israel’s downfall was trusting in false gods and deceptive leaders instead of the Lord. The same deception is prevalent today:
- People turn to false ideologies and seek worldly comfort rather than truth.
- Society attempts to redefine morality, removing God’s commandments from schools and government.
- Many are led away from biblical truth by false teachers who preach prosperity without repentance.
Application
Be discerning! Not every message that sounds good is from God. Just as Israel was deceived by false prophets, many today follow misleading teachings that stray from the Gospel.
Corrupt Shepherds – God’s Judgment on False Leaders
Zechariah 10:3 (NKJV) – My anger is kindled against the shepherds, And I will punish the goatherds. For the LORD of hosts will visit His flock, The house of Judah, And will make them as His royal horse in the battle.
God holds leaders accountable for how they shepherd His people. In Ezekiel 34, He condemns Israel’s corrupt leaders:
- They fed themselves instead of caring for the flock.
- They ruled with cruelty instead of leading with love.
- They neglected the weak instead of strengthening them.
Application
Leadership in the church should be rooted in servanthood. Beware of leaders who prioritize power, wealth, or popularity over truth and godliness.
The Signs of the Times – A Warning for Today
Matthew 24:36-51 (NKJV) – Jesus warns that before His return, the world will be like the days of Noah—filled with distraction, deception, and unpreparedness.
Many today, like in Noah’s time, live without concern for God, ignoring the warnings. But Jesus tells us to stay ready, faithfully serving until He comes.
Matthew 24:42 (NKJV) – Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.
Application
Don’t be complacent! Live as a faithful servant, staying strong in your faith and sharing the Gospel with those around you.
Final Thoughts – Lessons from Zechariah 10
- Seek God’s provision – Ask for spiritual rain (the Holy Spirit) in your life.
- Understand the purpose of the law – It points us to Christ, the only One who can save.
- Beware of false teachings – Don’t be deceived by messages that contradict Scripture.
- God judges corrupt leadership – Those who mislead His people will face consequences.
- Stay watchful for Christ’s return – Be faithful and prepared for His coming.
By understanding these truths, we can remain strong in our faith, discerning in our walk, and faithful in our service to God.
