Zechariah 6:15

And they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the Lord, and ye shall know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto you. And this shall come to pass, if ye will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God.

Zechariah 6:15 (KJV)

Context

The book of Zechariah was written in the post-exilic period, after the Israelites had returned from Babylonian captivity. Under Zerubbabel the governor and Joshua the high priest, the community was rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Zechariah 6:15 concludes a vision in which the prophet is told to make crowns for Joshua, symbolizing the coming union of priestly and kingly roles in the Messiah.

Meaning

The verse promises that “they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the LORD.” This refers to Jewish exiles still scattered in distant lands who would return to help in the temple’s restoration. It shows that God’s favor extends beyond the immediate community in Judah, drawing people from afar to participate in His work.

The people will then know that “the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.” This confirms that Zechariah’s words are not his own but divine messages, authenticated by the fulfillment of the prophecy. The promise is conditional: “this shall come to pass, if ye will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” Faithful obedience is the prerequisite for the realization of God’s blessing.

Biblical connections

The phrase “they that are far off” also 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). The crowning of Joshua in the preceding verses points to Christ, who as both priest and king builds the true temple—the church—and gathers people from all nations to be living stones in it.

Application

This verse encourages believers to participate in God’s building work, reminding us that God gathers people from all nations. It also calls for diligent obedience to God’s voice, recognizing that His promises are sure but often require faithful response. As we obey, we become part of what God is building and witnesses to the truth of His word.

Reflection

God’s work is not limited by geography or background. He invites people from far off to join in His purposes, and He confirms His messengers through the fulfillment of His word. The call to diligent obedience remains central: when we obey the voice of the Lord, we participate in the fulfillment of His promises and experience His blessing.