Zechariah 6:15

And they that are farre off, shall come and build in the Temple of the Lord, and ye shall knowe that the Lord of hosts hath sent me vnto you. And this shall come to passe, if ye will diligently obey the voyce of the Lord your God. Zechariah 6:15 (KJV)

Historical Context: The book of Zechariah was written in the post‑exilic period when the Israelites had returned from Babylonian captivity. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, and Joshua, the high priest, the community was engaged in rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem.

Rebuilding the Temple: Zechariah 6:15 declares that “they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the LORD.” This promise indicates that people from distant lands will assist in the temple’s restoration, signifying that God’s favor will extend beyond the borders of Judah. The verse therefore looks forward to a broader participation in God’s work, not limited to the immediate Israelite community.

Divine Authorization: The passage emphasizes that the people will recognize that the “LORD of hosts” has sent Zechariah to them. This underscores that Zechariah’s words are not his own ideas but divine messages, granting his prophecy authoritative weight rooted in God’s own voice.

Condition of Obedience: The promise is conditional: “And this shall come to pass if ye will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” The fulfillment of foreign assistance in building the temple depends on the people’s faithful obedience to God’s commands. Their diligent obedience is presented as the prerequisite for the realization of divine blessing.

Universal Participation: The phrase “they that are far off” suggests that individuals from various nations and backgrounds will join in the temple work. This foreshadows the New Testament vision of a unified church where Jews and Gentiles alike are incorporated into the body of Christ (cf. Ephesians 2:14‑22). It reflects God’s heart for all peoples to partake in His salvation and to be co‑workers in His redemptive plan.