Zechariah 6:14 – “The crown will be given to Heldai, Tobijah, Jedaiah and Hen son of Zephaniah as a memorial in the temple of the Lord.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, God gives instructions to place the crown on the heads of several men—Heldai, Tobijah, Jedaiah, and Hen son of Zephaniah. These individuals had contributed silver and gold, which were used to create a crown for the priest and king combination described in previous verses. The crown being placed on these men symbolizes the importance of their participation in God’s work and a memorial in the temple, reminding the people of the promise God had made regarding the coming of the righteous leader, the Branch. This gesture shows that their contributions and faithfulness were recognized by God, and that they were part of the unfolding story of God’s redemption plan.
Historical Context
Zechariah prophesied during a time when the Jewish people were rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after returning from exile in Babylon. The people were facing discouragement, as the rebuilding was slow, and they had no political king to lead them. The crown was placed on the heads of these men as part of a symbolic act, demonstrating that God was working through His people, and they had a role in the larger restoration plan. The mention of these specific men is a reminder that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s faithfulness to His promises. By giving the crown as a memorial, God is reminding the people of His future plans for a righteous king who will build His temple and rule justly. The placing of the crown on these men is also a reminder that God honors the contributions of His people, no matter how small, as part of His larger plan. Theologically, this shows that God’s redemptive plan involves both the active participation of His people and the fulfillment of His promises through a coming Messiah.
Literary Analysis
This verse serves as a key point in the overall narrative of Zechariah’s vision. It ties the vision of the “Branch” (the coming Messiah) and the crown to the contributions of specific individuals, connecting the future hope of restoration with the present actions of God’s people. The inclusion of the memorial emphasizes the ongoing nature of God’s plan. The fact that the memorial is placed in the temple shows that this plan is not just about a political leader, but about God’s ultimate presence among His people.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:2-3: God commands the people to bring offerings for the building of the tabernacle, indicating that God’s people have a role in constructing the place of His dwelling.
- Matthew 25:34-40: Jesus affirms that those who serve others are serving Him, indicating that every act of faithfulness is significant in God’s eyes.
- Revelation 21:22-23: The new temple where God will dwell with His people forever, pointing to the fulfillment of the temple imagery in Zechariah.
- Isaiah 28:16: The Messiah is referred to as a precious cornerstone, emphasizing His foundational role in the temple of God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us that our contributions to God’s work, no matter how small, are not in vain. God sees our faithfulness and uses us in His larger redemptive plan. Just as the men who contributed silver and gold were honored and remembered, so too will our efforts in serving God be remembered and honored.
This verse also points to the ongoing building of God’s kingdom. Christians today are part of God’s temple—the Church—where God’s presence dwells (1 Corinthians 3:16). Just as the temple was being rebuilt in Zechariah’s time, so too is God building His kingdom through His people today.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s loving nature is seen in how He honors the contributions of His people. He values every act of obedience and faithfulness. By placing the crown on the heads of these men as a memorial in His temple, God shows His deep care for His people, acknowledging their role in His grand plan of redemption. This reflects God’s intimate involvement in the lives of His people, rewarding their service as part of His purpose for restoration.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus Christ. Jesus is the ultimate “Branch” who will come to establish God’s eternal kingdom. He is the true high priest and king, combining both roles in a way that no earthly leader could. Jesus’ role as both priest and king fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah and builds the true temple—the body of believers who are reconciled to God through Christ.
The crown in Zechariah’s vision also foreshadows the crown of glory that Jesus will wear as the King of kings, ruling over a restored creation (Revelation 19:16). Just as the temple was being rebuilt in Zechariah’s time, so Christ is building His church, the true temple of God, where God’s presence dwells among His people.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that God values every contribution to His work encourage you to serve faithfully?
- In what ways can you contribute to building God’s kingdom today?
- How does this verse challenge your understanding of how God involves His people in His plans?
- What does the image of the memorial in the temple teach you about the lasting impact of your faithfulness?
- How does the connection between the crown in Zechariah and Jesus Christ deepen your understanding of Christ’s roles as both king and priest?
This verse calls us to remember that our contributions, no matter how small, are a vital part of God’s greater purpose. It invites us to participate in His work, trusting that He is building His kingdom, where His presence will dwell forever.