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ZECHARIAH 4:6

"THE SECRET OF STRENGTH"

Intro: The time of Zechariah's prophesy: The vision of the candlestick.
       History and  meaning of candlestick.

I. THE AWESOME TASK, TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE.
        A. The difficulties.
                1. Outside opposition.
                        a. Letters to Artexerses.
                        b. Stopped them by force.
                2. Inside opposition.
                        a. Lack of concern by the people (Hag. 1:4..
        B. The discouragement.
                1. In the natural the task seemed impossible.
                2. So much to be done, so little help to do it.
                3. Looking at the human resources it was obviously
                   impossible.

II. THE MESSAGE - FAITH. "NOT BY MIGHT, NOR BY POWER, BUT BY MY SPIRIT
    SAYETH THE LORD OF HOSTS."
        A. The first consideration when facing new task?
                1. Human resources.
                2. Limited always.
        B. We seldom take into account God's infinite resources made
           available to  us through the Spirit.
        C. Some of the areas where we need to apply this.
                1. In the building of our new sanctuary.
                2. Loved ones who are unsaved.
                        a. How can he ever be changed?
                        b. Use all our clever little tricks.
                3. Needed changes in our own lives.
                4. Needed changes in our society.
                5. The task of getting the gospel out.
        D. God seeks to teach us this vital lesson:  The work of God is
           not wrought by human resources.
                1. The purpose of the church is to be a light in this dark
                   world.
                        a. A great deal of might and power being expended
                           by church today trying to get light to shine.
                        b. Looking for new program.
                        c. Seeking to get involved.
                                1. Form a committee to determine how many
                                   committees we'll need to get everyone
                                   involved.
                        d. We had better be concerned getting the Spirit
                           involved.
                2. God has to sometimes allow us to experience defeat and
                   failure, to teach us.
                        a. Discouraged, defeated, ready to give up? "Oh
                           you're in beautiful shape."
                        b. God has infinite resources for you.
                                1. Two olive trees. Oil symbol of Spirit.
                                2. "Ye shall receive power."
                                3. I'm so glad we're in a church where
                                   subject of Spirit is not a taboo.

III. WISDOM OF GOD'S WAY.
        A. Suppose opposite true.
                1. Church conventions would be a bore.
        B. All glory to God who has wrought His marvelous works in our
           midst.
        C. How can I get this message over?