Open-Bible Ministries Online Resource Centre

In this little known prophecy of Zechariah, Pastor Alan shows how the prophet foresaw the rise and nature of the Papacy and also predicted the Lord's judgement on it.

In the Gospels, Jesus is portrayed as "The Good Shepherd" but here in Zechariah, we are shown a false shepherd, a hireling - one whom the prophet calls the "Idol Shepherd". Four characteristics identify this "Idol Shepherd" as representing the dynasty of the Papacy:-

It is a system of spiritual commercialisation which feeds itself at the expense of the people, who are offered "Purgatory" and "Indulgences" - everything for a price - but have no assurance of salvation. Zechariah saw this evil system grinding down the people.

Secondly, it is a cruel system which still persecutes today where it has the power to do so. History records the terrible persecutions and martyrdoms of centuries ago, the cost paid by men and women that we might have an open Bible today and enjoy civil and religious liberty.

Pastor Alan also shows that Roman Catholicism is steeped in idolatry, in direct opposition to the Second Commandment, which has been "conveniently" removed from the Roman Catholic version of the Ten Commandments.

And fourthly, the very Pope, himself, is set up as an idol, to be venerated, worshipped and adored by Roman Catholics. Even today, in the Ecumenical and Charismatic climate, the Pope is treated almost as a "god" - truly the "Idol Shepherd" of Zechariah's prophecy.

However, Pastor Alan shows that the Lord is in the process of destroying this "Idol Shepherd's" authority - his "arm" (physical power) is progressively being "dried up" while his "eye" (spiritual, ecclesiastical power) is being "darkened". This system will be utterly destroyed and the Lord will accomplish the judgement of the "Idol Shepherd".