Zechariah 10:4

Zechariah is one of the most highly Messianic prophets. In chapter nine he predicted the coming of Christ into Jerusalem ; what we often call his “triumphant entry,” as well as the universality of his kingdom (9:9-10). The 30 pieces of silver for which Judas betrayed Jesus was predicted ( 11:13 ). The disciples who scattered, every one to his own way the night Jesus was betrayed did not escape his pen (13:7), nor did the fact that a fountain would be opened for sin and uncleanness (13:1). But the text we wish to discuss now is the one in the heading above.

Zechariah 10:4 begins, “Out of him …” The antecedent of “him” is Judah in verse three. Out of Judah then, says Zechariah, would come four things, all to be fulfilled in the Messiah when he came. Let us look at each of these.

First, there would come the “corner,” as as the ASV has it the “cornerstone.” Any building needs a foundation, and the key to the strength of a foundation is a cornerstone. Christ is often referred to as such. He was considered a cornerstone prophetically (Isa. 28:16; Psa. 118:22; cf. Matt. 21:42 ). Then he was looked upon as one actually (Acts 4:11 ; Eph. 2:20 ; 1 Pet. 2:7). Paul said that Christ was the foundation of the church (1 Cor. 3:11 ).

Second, there would come the “nail.” Here was a place of strength; support. This was once used of Eliakim (Isa. 22:23 ). The Preacher’s words were looked upon as “nails” (Eccl. 12:11 ). Indicative of that which his hearers could depend on. When the remnant came back from Babylon , they had a “nail” (Ezra 9:8, and here was the temple; a place of fixation. So in Christ we have a “nail.” He is sure; he will never forsake us (Heb. 13:5-6). With him, his people can overcome all (Phil. 4:13 ; 2 Cor. 12:9).

Third, out of Judah would come the “battle bow,” denoting a great conqueror. The bow was the symbol of military might (Gen. 48:22; Psa. 7:12 ). But Christ’s kingdom was one of peace. Why this allusion to a military weapon? Because there is a battle going on in the world. Yet is one not fought with swords, but is done by utilizing the “whole armor of God” (Eph. 6:11f). It is through his word, the gospel, that Christ will overcome all. In view of this we know that we can stand through Christ in victory of all (Rev. 2:10).

Fourth, there would come “every oppressor altogether.” “Oppressor” is ruler in the ASV. The word literally means “an exactor.” The word “taskmaster” (Exo. 1:11 ) derives from this word. The point is that Christ will ultimately do away with all oppression when he comes. He himself would suffer it to accomplish our salvation, and would “exact” whatever was necessary to achieve that great purpose. None could, nor yet can, stand against him. He makes his people the true noble people of the world (1 Pet. 2:9); their faith will vindicate them, and in the end they will be elevated over every foe.

And so we have four great things that would be accomplished in Christ. How great things God sent “out of Judah !” Let us remember that whatever greatness we have is not because of inherent qualities within ourselves, but because of the one God sent “out of Judah .”  - Bill Moseley