Chapter Summary

The mission from Babylon, and Jehovah's answer to the question of fasts. Why prayer was not answered.

Discussion Questions for Zechariah, Chapter 7

1. In verses 1-3, the people inquire about fasting and mourning. How can we reflect on the motives behind our religious practices and rituals, and consider the importance of authenticity in our expressions of devotion to God?
2. Reflecting on verse 3, the people sought guidance from the priests and prophets about continuing their fasting practices. How can we seek wisdom, discernment, and accountability from trusted individuals in our pursuit of spiritual growth and maturity?
3. Verses 4-6 recounts how the people fasted for self-interest rather than out of reverence for God. How can we examine our motivations for spiritual disciplines such as fasting, prayer, and acts of worship?
4. Reflecting on verse 7, the message from the Lord through the prophets calls for justice, kindness, and compassion. How can we relate this call to justice and ethical behavior to our daily interactions with others?
5. Verses 8-10 highlights the consequences of disobedience and disregard for God's commands. How can we examine the patterns of behavior and attitudes that lead to spiritual apathy, disobedience, and indifference to God's will?
6. According to verses 11-12, the people refused to listen to the prophets and turned away from God's instructions. How might our willingness to listen and respond to divine guidance shape our spiritual growth and maturity?
7. Verse 13 emphasizes the consequences of stubbornness and resistance to God's message. What can we do to keep from hardening our hearts and closing our ears to God's voice?
8. Reflecting on verse 14, the Lord scattered the people among the nations because they had not listened to His voice. How might this example from history prompt us to seek God's forgiveness and restoration in our personal and communal lives?
9. Verse 15 highlights how the previous generations experienced the consequences of their actions through calamity and hardship. How can we learn from the mistakes and failures of the past and apply the lessons of history to our current circumstances?
10. According to verse 16, the Lord admonishes the people to speak the truth, render true and sound judgments, and show kindness and compassion to one another. How might our commitment to righteousness and mercy reflect our reverence for God's will and character?

Key Words/Phrase

Fasts, v. 5.

Characters

God, Holy Spirit, Darius, Zechariah, Sherezer, Regemmelich.

Strong Verse(s)

9, 10, 13.