RUSSELL SANDERS
2-28-2021
ZECHARIAH THE PROPHET – LESSON 8
THE FLYING SCROLL
The prophet’s sixth night vision is given in Zechariah 5:1-4 as he saw a flying roll (scroll) thirty feet long and fifteen feet wide. It signified to the written word of God which convicts of sin and righteousness.
In John 16:8 Jesus says the Holy Spirit “will reprove the world of sin…” and reprove means to blame, disapprove, convict of wrongdoing by revealing the word, both the written word and the living Word (Jesus).
Zechariah saw the written word of God (the scroll) flying over the earth condemning the sins of stealing and false swearing. The angel told the prophet that everyone who does that shall be cut off. Verse 4 goes on to say that “the word” (scroll) shall enter the house of the thief and the one who swears falsely (lying accusations) and shall consume his house, even the very timbers and stones of it.”
How powerful is the word of God? Hebrews 4:12 tells us, “For the Word of God is quick and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit…”. We should not dare to violate the word of God.
So how is it that we steal? Obviously, if you take something that does not belong to you is one way. Another way is by keeping for yourself what you already have that you know should be rightfully given to someone else; it is in this way that most Christians steal.
Malachi 3:8 asks, “Will a man rob (steal) from God?” It then says that we have stolen from God Himself by withholding the tithes and offerings that rightly must go to Him. The tithe is the first ten percent of all that comes unto us. The offerings are the additional resources of ours given to help the poor and needy or other special needs. Verse 9 says to withhold it will bring a curse upon you.
What about the “swearing?” It refers to declaring an oath, especially one done in God’s name, or speaking deceitfully or a lie. James 5:12 says, “…swear not, neither by heaven (nor) earth (nor) by any other (name) oath, but let your yea (yes) be yea, and your nay (no) be nay, lest you fall into any condemnation.”
Even Jesus said, “…let your communication (words) be “yea, yea; nay, nay” for whatsoever is more than these cometh (from) evil.” In other words, only speak truth, speak it clearly and honestly, and do not “swear” it to be truth.
People will then be able to trust your word without reservation. Anything less than that opens a gate of doubt on your honestly and integrity.
The “flying scroll” of God’s word sees everything and hears everything. Do not steal from God or anyone else. Be honest in all communication. God rewards obedience. Disobedience will sooner or later bring bad things upon you.
God loves you. He desires only the best for you. We should also give Him our best.
