Mention is made of Zechariah's ministry in the Historical Book of Ezra (Ezra 5:1; 6:14), and tells us himself that he prophesied in the years 520 and 518 B.C. (1:1,7; 7:1). The time of the writing of the first eight chapters was during the construction of the temple; whereas, the remaining chapters nine to fourteen appear to have been written at a much later time, after a probable lapse of thirty years.

Theme - Zechariah differs greatly, however, from Haggai in his methods of approach to the problems among the remnant Jews of Palestine; he makes large use of the earlier prophets, especially Jeremiah. His prophecy is distinguished for the symbolic character of its visions; for the richness of Messianic predictions found in the second part; and for the prominence of angelic ministrations in his intercourse with Jehovah. He encourages the people to repent and reform, discusses the fast days and feasts observed during the days of captivity, utters strong denunciations of contemporary nations, promises prosperity to Israel when obedient to God, and makes distinct predictions concerning Christ and the Messianic kingdom.

Outline - The book falls into three broad and comprehensive sections: I. Symbolic Visions Encouraging the Completion of the Temple (1:1-6:15) II. The Requirement of the Law; Restoration and Enlargement of Israel (7-8) III. The Messiah Rejected; The Messiah Triumphant (9-14)