2021-11-9

Zechariah 9:1-17

In chapter nine we read of 1. God’s defense of His church; 2.  Christ’s coming and His kingdom; 3.  Promises to the church.

9:1-8

Here judgements are foretold on several nations. While the Macedonians and Alexander’s successors were in warfare in these countries, the Lord promised to protect His people. God’s people lie in the midst of many enemies and are light in great darkness. God’s power and goodness are seen in Israel’s special preservation. The Lord encamps about His church, and while armies of proud opposers circle, He watches over her, so that they cannot prevail, and the time will come when no enemy shall pass by her anymore!

9:9-11

The prophet breaks forth into a joyful words of the coming of the Messiah.  He took the character of their King, when he entered Jerusalem amidst the hosannas of the multitude. But His kingdom is a spiritual kingdom. It is not advanced by outward force or carnal weapons. His gospel will be preached to the world and be received among the lost. A sinful state is a state of bondage; it is a pit, or dungeon, in which there is no water, no comfort; and we are all by nature prisoners in this pit. Through the precious blood of Christ, many prisoners of Satan have been set free from the horrible pit in which they must otherwise have perished, without hope or comfort. As we seek His holiness and truth, may His goodness be shown in our spirits and conduct. This invitation speaks to all the call of the gospel – the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ.

9:12-17

Sinners are prisoners, but have hope; our case is sad, but not desperate; for there is hope in the King. Christ is a strong Tower, in whom believers are safe from the fear of the wrath of God, the curse of the law, and the assaults of spiritual enemies. We must turn to Him in faith; to Him we must flee and trust in His name under all trials and sufferings. It is promised that the Lord will deliver his people. The more we seek Him and are satisfied with His goodness, the more we shall admire the beauty revealed in our Redeemer. Whatever gifts God bestows on us, we serve Him cheerfully with them and as we enjoy His great blessings, we say: How great is his goodness!             — Mary Mauderer