Seattle, September 30, 2005. (95)
THE ANGEL OF THE LORD. Or the Angel of Jehovah, seeing as LORD [When capitalized in KJV is Jehovah.] The Angel in the presence of, and representing the face of the LORD. A Theophany, [a prebirth appearance of the Lord Jesus.] The vision of Zechariah illustrates the power and dignity of the Angel of the LORD. He saw Joshua, (Jehovah-saved, having the same meaning as Jesus,) standing before the angel of the LORD. The enemy, Satan stood at his right side to resist him. He is still the accuser of the brethren. Standing before the throne with accusations day and night, or 24/7. Rev. 12:10 Lets not help him by unjustly accusing one another. One thing about this is, that when he is before the Lord day and night he is not bugging us! His imps are the ones who plague us. Consider that in rebuking Satan the LORD used His name LORD or Jehovah. Zech. 3:1-2 This is a key to spiritual victories. Do all that is done in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The LORD has authorize His people to use the power of His name.
THIS ANGEL CLEANSES FROM SIN. This is not a responsibility that is delegated to created angels. To have this ability one must belong to the Godhead, for only He can forgive or sins and iniquities. The clothing of Joshua was soiled, a condition that needed a change. The removal of the filthy garments was an outward sign of the spiritual work which had been accomplished within his spirit nature. In salvation, a change inside will be evident outside, as well as inside. The iniquity of Joshua was removed. He stood before the Angel of the LORD, sanctified. Zech. 3:3-4 Now he is crowned and clean garments given him to wear. Zech. 3:5 Joshua, was given the office of the high priest. That would make these new garments the robes of the high priest. Hag. 1:1 He was called and designated by the Lord to be a spiritual leader among the people.
THE COMMAND OF THE ANGEL TO JOSHUA . The Angel assumed the position of Deity. Consider the use of the personal pronoun “MY,” Joshua was to walk after His ways, follow His paths. He was to keep the Word of the Lord. As with us, it was to be his guide in life. Having been obedient, he would judge, lead and direct the people. Obedience to the Word is a great key to the blessings of the Lord. Joshua would then be able to dwell in the presence of the Lord, in the house of the Lord. Joshua was to receive a position of honor by being obedient. Zech. 3:6 How often have we heard it? “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice and to hearken than the fat of rams.” 1 Sam. 15:22.