Grandson of King Jehoiachin (the captive king). He was the legitimate heir to the Davidic throne, but he was born in a foreign land. His name "Sown in Babylon" reminds him of his exilic roots.

He was a man of high status in the Persian court. When Cyrus issued the decree, Zerubbabel had to choose between his comfortable life in Babylon and the hardship of a ruined homeland. He chose Sacrificial Leadership.

He was formed by Identity in Crisis. He was a Prince with no Kingdom. He had to learn that his value was in his lineage and God's promise, not in a physical crown.

He was shaped by Haggai and Zechariah. These prophets rebuked his passivity and ignited his courage. He learned that the Temple of God is more important than his own "paneled house."

1. The Departure (Cyrus' decree).
2. The Altar (First sacrifice).
3. The Foundation (Shouts and Tears).
4. The 16-year Gap (Discouragement).
5. The Completion (Joy).

The Builder of the Second Temple. Zerubbabel carried the burden of restoration. He was the "Signet Ring" of God (Haggai 2:23), representing the reinstatement of the Davidic line after the curse on Jehoiachin.

He provided Presence. By rebuilding the Temple, he provided the physical place where God's name would dwell. He gave the people their spiritual center back.

The 42,000 returnees. Without his leadership and his royal legitimacy, the Persian government would never have allowed the rebuild.

He is a key link in the genealogy of Jesus (both in Matthew and Luke). He is the bridge between the Old Kingdom and the New King.

He held fast to Exclusive Worship. When the Samaritans said, "Let us build with you, for we seek your God," Zerubbabel said "No." He knew that a mixed foundation would lead to a corrupt Temple. He held the line of purity even when it made him enemies.

He broke under Discouragement for 16 years. He let the "mountains" of opposition become too big in his eyes. He settled for a comfortable life while God's mission was half-finished. He needed the word of God to "wake him up."