I Will Remove The Iniquity Of This Land In A Single Day

Zechariah 3:06-10 - Key Verse 09

Cornerstone Definition: A cornerstone (or foundation stone or setting stone) is the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation. All other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.

Over time a cornerstone became a ceremonial masonry stone, or replica, set in a prominent location on the outside of a building, with an inscription on the stone indicating the construction dates of the building and the names of architect, builder, and other significant individuals. The rite of laying a cornerstone is an important cultural component of eastern architecture and metaphorically in sacred architecture generally.

1. Recap what has happened so far in this vision of Joshua the high priest. (Zechariah 3:1-5)

V6-7.

2. What does the angel of the Lord promise to Joshua in these verses? Why might this be an important charge to give Joshua after putting priestly clothes on him?
3. Why is it significant that Joshua shall rule the Lord’s house, have charge of his courts, and have the right of access? Since Joshua is the high priest of Israel, what could this imply for the nation of Israel?

V8-9

4. What is the Lord going to accomplish with his servant the Branch and the stone that is set before Joshua? (9b)
   1. Who else is involved besides Joshua and the Branch according to verse 8a?
5. If the Israelites are in the middle of rebuilding the temple and a stone is set before Joshua the high priest, what type of stone might this be?
6. How could Joshua use this stone to help with the building project? How might this stone be related to the measuring of Jerusalem mentioned in Zechariah 2:1-5?
7. Why might the stone be described as having 7 eyes? What could this symbolize or imply for the building of the temple and Jerusalem?
8. What inscription could be written on the stone?

V10

9. On the day the building project is accomplished using the stone, what will the lives of the Israelites look like?