This prophecy is suitable to all, as the scope is to reprove for sin, and threaten God's judgments against the impenitent, and to encourage those that feared God, with assurances of the mercy God had in store for his church, and especially of the coming of the Messiah, and the setting up his kingdom in the world.
An exhortation to repentance. (1-6) A vision of the ministry of angels. (7-17) The security of the Jews and the destruction of their enemies. (18-21)
@Verses 1-6 God's almighty power and sovereign dominion, should engage and encourage sinners to repent and turn to Him. It is very desirable to have the Lord of hosts for our friend, and very dreadful to have him for our enemy. Review what is past, and observe the message God sent by his servants, the prophets, to your fathers. Turn ye now from your evil ways, and from your evil doings. Be persuaded to leave your sins, as the only way to prevent approaching ruin. What is become of our fathers, and of the prophets that preached to them? They are all dead and gone. Here they were, in the towns and countries where we live, passing and repassing in the same streets, dwelling in the same houses, trading in the same shops and exchanges, worshipping God in the same places. But where are they? When they died, there was not an end of them; they are in eternity, in the world of spirits, the unchangeable world to which we hasten apace. Where are they? Those of them who lived and died in sin, are in torment. Those who lived and died in Christ, are in heaven; and if we live and die as they did, we shall be with them shortly and eternally. If they minded not their own souls, is that a reason why their posterity should ruin theirs also? The prophets are gone. Christ is a Prophet that lives for ever, but all other prophets have a period put to their office. Oh that this consideration had its due weight; that dying ministers are dealing with dying people about their never-dying souls, and an awful eternity, upon the brink of which both are standing! In another world, both we and our prophets shall live for ever: to prepare for that world ought to be our great care in this. The preachers died, and the hearers died, but the word of God died not; not one jot or title of it fell to the ground; for he is righteous.
@Verses 7-17 The prophet saw a dark, shady grove, hidden by hills. This represented the low, melancholy condition of the Jewish church. A man like a warrior sat on a red horse, in the midst of this shady myrtle-grove. Though the church was in a low condition, Christ was present in the midst, ready to appear for the relief of his people. Behind him were angels ready to be employed by him, some in acts of judgment, others of mercy, others in mixed events. Would we know something of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, we must apply, not to angels, for they are themselves learners, but to Christ himself. He is ready to teach those humbly desirous to learn the things of God. The nations near Judea enjoyed peace at that time, but the state of the Jews was unsettled, which gave rise to the pleading that followed; but mercy must only be hoped for through Christ. His intercession for his church prevails. The Lord answered the Angel, this Angel of the covenant, with promises of mercy and deliverance. All the good words and comfortable words of the gospel we receive from Jesus Christ, as he received them from the Father, in answer to the prayer of his blood; and his ministers are to preach them to all the world. The earth sat still, and was at rest. It is not uncommon for the enemies of God to be at rest in sin, while his people are enduring correction, harassed by temptation, disquieted by fears of wrath, or groaning under oppression and persecution. Here are predictions which had reference to the revival of the Jews after the captivity, but those events were shadows of what shall take place in the church, after the oppression of the New Testament Babylon is ended.
@Verses 18-21
The enemies of the church threaten to cut off the name of
Israel. They are horns, emblems of power, strength, and
violence. The prophet saw them so formidable that he began to
despair of the safety of every good man, and the success of
every good work; but the Lord showed him four workmen empowered
to cut off these horns. With an eye of sense we see the power of
the enemies of the church; look which way we will, the world
shows us that; but it is only with an eye of faith that we see
it safe. The Lord shows us that. When God has work to do, he
will raise up some to do it, and others to defend it, and to
protect those employed in doing it. What cause there is to look
up in love and praise to the holy and eternal Spirit, who has
the same care over the present and eternal interests of
believers, by the holy word bringing the church to know the
wonderful things of salvation!
The prosperity of Jerusalem. (1-5) The Jews called to return
to their own land. (6-9) A promise of God's presence. (10-13)
@Verses 1-5
The Son of David, even the Man Christ Jesus, whom the
prophet sees with a measuring line in his hand, is the
Master-Builder of his church. God notices the extent of his
church, and will take care that whatever number of guests are
brought to the wedding-supper, there shall be room. This vision
means well to Jerusalem. The walls of a city, as they defend it,
so they straiten its inhabitants; but Jerusalem shall be
extended as freely as if it had no walls at all, yet shall be as
safe as if it had the strongest walls. In the church of God
there yet is room for other multitudes, more than man can
number. None shall be refused who trust in Christ; and He never
shuts out from heaven one true member of the church on earth.
God will be a Wall of fire round them, which can neither be
broken through nor undermined, nor can it be assailed without
danger to those who attack. This vision was to have its full
accomplishment in the gospel church, which is extended by
admitting the Gentiles into it; and which has the Son of God for
its Prince and Protector; especially in the glorious times yet
to come.
@Verses 6-9
If God will build Jerusalem for the people and their
comfort, they must inhabit it for him and his glory. The
promises and privileges with which God's people are blessed,
should engage us to join them, whatever it costs us. When Zion
is enlarged to make room for all God's Israel, it is the
greatest madness for any of them to stay in Babylon. The
captivity of a sinful state is by no means to be continued in,
though a man may be easy in worldly matters. Escape for thy
life, look not behind thee. Christ has proclaimed that
deliverance to the captives, which he has himself wrought out,
and it concerns every one to resolve that sin shall not have
dominion over him. Those who would be found among God's
children, must save themselves from this world, see
@acts 2:40
.
What Christ will do for his church, shall be an evident proof of
God's care and affection. He that touches you, touches the apple
of his eye. This is a strong expression of God's love to his
church. He takes what is done against her as done against the
tenderest part of the eye, to which the least touch is a great
offence. Christ is sent to be the Protector of his church.
@Verses 10-13
Here is a prediction of the coming of Christ in human
nature. Many nations in that day would renounce idolatry, and
God will own those for his people who join him with purpose of
heart. Glorious times are foretold as a prophecy of our Lord's
coming and kingdom. God is about to do something unexpected, and
very surprising, and to plead his people's cause, which had long
seemed neglected. Silently submit to his holy will, and
patiently wait the event; assured that God will complete all his
work. He will ere long come to judgment, to complete the
salvation of his people, and to punish the inhabitants of the
earth for their sins.
The restoration of the church. (1-5) A promise concerning the
Messiah. (6-10)
@Verses 1-5
The angel showed Joshua, the high priest, to Zechariah, in
a vision. Guilt and corruption are great discouragements when we
stand before God. By the guilt of the sins committed by us, we
are liable to the justice of God; by the power of sin that
dwells in us, we are hateful to the holiness of God. Even God's
Israel are in danger on these accounts; but they have relief
from Jesus Christ, who is made of God to us both righteousness
and sanctification. Joshua, the high priest, is accused as a
criminal, but is justified. When we stand before God, to
minister to him, or stand up for God, we must expect to meet all
the resistance Satan's subtlety and malice can give. Satan is
checked by one that has conquered him, and many times silenced
him. Those who belong to Christ, will find him ready to appear
for them, when Satan appears most strongly against them. A
converted soul is a brand plucked out of the fire by a miracle
of free grace, therefore shall not be left a prey to Satan.
Joshua appears as one polluted, but is purified; he represents
the Israel of God, who are all as an unclean thing, till they
are washed and sanctified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by
the Spirit of our God. Israel now were free from idolatry, but
there were many things amiss in them. There were spiritual
enemies warring against them, more dangerous than any
neighbouring nations. Christ loathed the filthiness of Joshua's
garments, yet did not put him away. Thus God by his grace does
with those whom he chooses to be priests to himself. The guilt
of sin is taken away by pardoning mercy, and the power of it is
broken by renewing grace. Thus Christ washes those from their
sins in his own blood, whom he makes kings and priests to our
God. Those whom Christ makes spiritual priests, are clothed with
the spotless robe of his righteousness, and appear before God in
that; and with the graces of his Spirit, which are ornaments to
them. The righteousness of saints, both imputed and implanted,
is the fine linen, clean and white, with which the bride, the
Lamb's wife, is arrayed,
@revelation 19:8
. Joshua is restored to former
honours and trusts. The crown of the priesthood is put on him.
When the Lord designs to restore and revive religion, he stirs
up prophets and people to pray for it.
@Verses 6-10
All whom God calls to any office he finds fit, or makes
so. The Lord will cause the sins of the believer to pass away by
his sanctifying grace, and will enable him to walk in newness of
life. As the promises made to David often pass into promises of
the Messiah, so the promises to Joshua look forward to Christ,
of whose priesthood Joshua's was a shadow. Whatever trials we
pass through, whatever services we perform, our whole dependence
must rest on Christ, the Branch of righteousness. He is God's
servant, employed in his work, obedient to his will, devoted to
his honour and glory. He is the Branch from which all our fruit
must be gathered. The eye of his Father was upon him, especially
in his sufferings, and when he was buried in the grave, as the
foundation-stones are under ground, out of men's sight. But the
prophecy rather denotes the attention paid to this precious
Corner-stone. All believers, from the beginning, had looked
forward to it in the types and predictions. All believers, after
Christ's coming, would look to it with faith, hope, and love.
Christ shall appear for all his chosen, as the high priest when
before the Lord, with the names of all Israel graven in the
precious stones of his breastplate. When God gave a remnant to
Christ, to be brought through grace to glory, then he engraved
this precious stone. By him sin shall be taken away, both the
guilt and the dominion of it; he did it in one day, that day in
which he suffered and died. What should terrify when sin is
taken away? Then nothing can hurt, and we sit down under
Christ's shadow with delight, and are sheltered by it. And
gospel grace, coming with power, makes men forward to draw
others to it.
A vision of a candlestick, with two olive trees. (1-7) Further
encouragement. (8-10) An explanation respecting the olive trees.
(11-14)
@Verses 1-7
The prophet's spirit was willing to attend, but the flesh
was weak. We should beg of God that, whenever he speaks to us,
he would awaken us, and we should then stir up ourselves. The
church is a golden candlestick, or lamp-bearer, set up for
enlightening this dark world, and holding forth the light of
Divine revelation. Two olive trees were seen, one on each side
the candlestick, from which oil flowed into the bowl without
ceasing. God brings to pass his gracious purposes concerning his
church, without any art or labour of man; sometimes he makes use
of his instruments, yet he needs them not. This represented the
abundance of Divine grace, for the enlightening and making holy
the ministers and members of the church, and which cannot be
procured or prevented by any human power. The vision assures us
that the good work of building the temple, should be brought to
a happy end. The difficulty is represented as a great mountain.
But all difficulties shall vanish, and all the objections be got
over. Faith will remove mountains, and make them plains. Christ
is our Zerubbabel; mountains of difficulty were in the way of
his undertaking, but nothing is too hard for him. What comes
from the grace of God, may, in faith, be committed to the grace
of God, for he will not forsake the work of his own hands.
@Verses 8-10
The exact fulfilment of Scripture prophecies is a
convincing proof of their Divine original. Though the
instruments be weak and unlikely, yet God often chooses such, to
bring about great things by them. Let not the dawning light be
despised; it will shine more and more to the perfect day. Those
who despaired of finishing the work, shall rejoice when they see
Zerubbabel giving directions what to do, and taking care that
the work be done. It is a comfort to us that the same all-wise,
almighty Providence, which governs the earth, is in particular
conversant about the church. All that have the plummet in their
hands, must look up to the eyes of the Lord, have constant
regard to Divine Providence, act in dependence on its guidance
and submission to its disposals. Let us fix our faith on Christ,
and view Him carrying on his work according to his own glorious
plan, and daily bringing his spiritual building nearer to
completion.
@Verses 11-14
Zechariah desires to know what are the two olive trees.
Zerubbabel and Joshua, this prince and this priest, were endued
with the gifts and graces of God's Spirit. They lived at the
same time, and both were instruments in the work and service of
God. Christ's offices of King and Priest were shadowed forth by
them. From the union of these two offices in his person, both
God and man, the fullness of grace is received and imparted.
They built the temple, the church of God. So does Christ
spiritually. Christ is not only the Messiah, the Anointed One
himself, but he is the Good Olive to his church; and from his
fulness we receive. And the Holy Spirit is the unction or
anointing which we have received. From Christ the Olive Tree, by
the Spirit the Olive Branch, all the golden oil of grace flows
to believers, which keeps their lamps burning. Let us seek,
through the intercession and bounty of the Saviour, supplies
from that fulness which has hitherto sufficed for all his
saints, according to their trials and employments. Let us wait
on him in his ordinances, desiring to be sanctified wholly in
body, soul, and spirit.
The vision of a flying roll. (1-4) The vision of a woman and
an ephah. (5-11)
@Verses 1-4
The Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are rolls, in
which God has written the great things of his law and gospel;
they are flying rolls. God's word runs very swiftly, Ps
147:15. This flying roll contains a declaration of the
righteous wrath of God against sinners. Oh that we saw with an
eye of faith the flying roll of God's curse hanging over the
guilty world as a thick cloud, not only keeping off the sunbeams
of God's favour, but big with thunders, lightnings, and storms,
ready to destroy them! How welcome then would the tidings of a
Saviour be, who came to redeem us from the curse of the law,
being himself made a curse for us! Sin is the ruin of houses and
families; especially the doing hurt to others and false witness.
Who knows the power of God's anger? God's curse cannot be kept
out by bars or locks. While one part of the curse of God ruins
the substance of the sinner, another part will rest on the soul,
and sink it to everlasting punishment. All are transgressors of
the law, so we cannot escape this wrath of God, except we flee
for refuge to lay hold on the hope set before us in the gospel.
@Verses 5-11
In this vision the prophet sees an ephah, something in the
shape of a corn measure. This betokened the Jewish nation. They
are filling the measure of their iniquity; and when it is full,
they shall be delivered into the hands of those to whom God sold
them for their sins. The woman sitting in the midst of the ephah
represents the sinful church and nation of the Jews, in their
latter and corrupt age. Guilt is upon the sinner as a weight of
lead, to sink him to the lowest hell. This seems to mean the
condemnation of the Jews, after they filled the measure of their
iniquities by crucifying Christ and rejecting his gospel.
Zechariah sees the ephah, with the woman thus pressed in it,
carried away to some far country. This intimates that the Jews
should be hurried out of their own land, and forced to dwell in
far countries, as they had been in Babylon. There the ephah
shall be firmly placed, and their sufferings shall continue far
longer than in their late captivity. Blindness is happened unto
Israel, and they are settled upon their own unbelief. Let
sinners fear to treasure up wrath against the day of wrath; for
the more they multiply crimes, the faster the measure fills.
The vision of the chariots. (1-8) Joshua, the high priest,
crowned as a type of Christ. (9-15)
@Verses 1-8
This vision may represent the ways of Providence in the
government of this lower world. Whatever the providences of God
about us are, as to public or private affairs, we should see
them all as coming from between the mountains of brass, the
immoveable counsels and decrees of God; and therefore reckon it
as much our folly to quarrel with them, as it is our duty to
submit to them. His providences move swiftly and strongly as
chariots, but all are directed and governed by his infinite
wisdom and sovereign will. The red horses signify war and
bloodshed. The black, signify the dismal consequences of war,
famines, pestilences, and desolations. The white, signify the
return of comfort, peace, and prosperity. The mixed colour,
signify events of different complexions, a day of prosperity and
a day of adversity. The angels go forth as messengers of God's
counsels, and ministers of his justice and mercy. And the secret
motions and impulses upon the spirits of men, by which the
designs of Providence are carried on, are these four spirits of
the heavens, which go forth from God, and fulfil what the God of
the spirits of all flesh appoints. All the events which take
place in the world spring from the unchangeable counsels of the
Lord, which are formed in unerring wisdom, perfect justice,
truth, and goodness; and from history it is found that events
happened about the period when this vision was sent to the
prophet, which seem referred to therein.
@Verses 9-15
Some Jews from Babylon brought an offering to the house of
God. Those who cannot forward a good work by their persons,
must, as they are able, forward it by their purses: if some find
hands, let others fill them. Crowns are to be made, and put upon
the head of Joshua. The sign was used, to make the promise more
noticed, that God will, in the fulness of time, raise up a great
High Priest, like Joshua, who is but the figure of one that is
to come. Christ is not only the Foundation, but the Founder of
this temple, by his Spirit and grace. Glory is a burden, but not
too heavy for Him to bear who upholds all things. The cross was
His glory, and he bore that; so is the crown an exceeding weight
of glory, and he bears that. The counsel of peace should be
between the priest and the throne, between the priestly and
kingly offices of Jesus Christ. The peace and welfare of the
gospel church, and of all believers, shall be wrought, though
not by two several persons, yet by two several offices meeting
in one; Christ, purchasing all peace by his priesthood,
maintaining and defending it by his kingdom. The crowns used in
this solemnity must be kept in the temple, as evidence of this
promise of the Messiah. Let us not think of separating what God
has joined in his counsel of peace. We cannot come to God by
Christ as our Priest, if we refuse to have him rule over us as
our King. We have no real ground to think our peace is made with
God, unless we try to keep his commandments.
The captives' inquiry respecting fasting. (1-7) Sin the cause
of their captivity. (8-14)
@Verses 1-7
If we truly desire to know the will of God in doubtful
matters, we must not only consult his word and ministers, but
seek his direction by fervent prayer. Those who would know God's
mind should consult God's ministers; and, in doubtful cases, ask
advice of those whose special business it is to search the
Scriptures. The Jews seemed to question whether they ought to
continue their fasts, seeing that the city and temple were
likely to be finished. The first answer to their inquiry is a
sharp reproof of hypocrisy. These fasts were not acceptable to
God, unless observed in a better manner, and to better purpose.
There was the form of duty, but no life, or soul, or power in
it. Holy exercises are to be done to God, looking to his word as
our rule, and his glory as our end, seeking to please him and
obtain his favour; but self was the centre of all their actions.
And it was not enough to weep on fast days; they should have
searched the Scriptures of the prophets, that they might have
seen what was the ground of God's controversy with their
fathers. Whether people are in prosperity or adversity, they
must be called upon to leave their sins, and to do their duty.
@Verses 8-14
God's judgements upon Israel of old for their sins, were
written to warn Christians. The duties required are, not keeping
fasts and offering sacrifices, but doing justly and loving
mercy, which tend to the public welfare and peace. The law of
God lays restraint upon the heart. But they filled their minds
with prejudices against the word of God. Nothing is harder than
the heart of a presumptuous sinner. See the fatal consequences
of this to their fathers. Great sins against the Lord of hosts,
bring great wrath from his power, which cannot be resisted. Sin,
if regarded in the heart, will certainly spoil the success of
prayer. The Lord always hears the cry of the broken-hearted
penitent; yet all who die impenitent and unbelieving, will find
no remedy or refuge from miseries which while here they despised
and defied, but which they then will not be able to bear.
The restoration of Jerusalem. (1-8) The people encouraged by
promises of God's favour, and exhorted to holiness. (9-17) The
Jews in the latter days. (18-23)
@Verses 1-8
The sins of Zion were her worst enemies. God will take away
her sins, and then no other enemies shall hurt her. Those who
profess religion must adorn their profession by godliness and
honesty. When become a city of truth and a mountain of holiness,
@
describe a state of great outward peace, attended with plenty,
temperance, and contentment. The scattered Israelites shall be
brought together from all parts. God will never leave nor
forsake them in a way of mercy, for this he has promised them;
and they shall never leave nor forsake him in a way of duty, as
they have promised him. These promises were partly fulfilled in
the Jewish church, betwixt the captivity and the time of
Christ's coming; and they had fuller accomplishment in the
gospel church; but the full import must be as to the future
times of the Christian church, or the future restoration of the
Jews. With men this is impossible, but with God all things are
possible; so far are God's thoughts and ways above ours. In the
present low state of vital godliness, we can hardly conceive
that so complete a change can be made; but a change thus
extensive and glorious, can be brought to pass by the almighty
power of the new-creating Spirit, in less time than he was
pleased to employ in creating the world. Let the hands of all
who labour in the cause of the gospel be strong, serving the
Lord in true holiness, assured that their labour shall not be in
vain.
@Verses 9-17
Those only who lay their hands to the plough of duty,
shall have them strengthened with the promises of mercy: those
who avoid their fathers' faults have the curse turned into a
blessing. Those who believed the promises, were to show their
faith by their works, and to wait the fulfilment. When God is
displeased, he can cause trade to decay, and set every man
against his neighbour; but when he returns in mercy, all is
happy and prosperous. Surely believers in Christ must not trifle
with the exhortation to put away lying, and to speak every man
peace with his neighbour, to hate what the Lord hates, and to
love that wherein he delights.
@Verses 18-23
When God comes towards us in ways of mercy, we must meet
him with joy and thankfulness. Therefore be faithful and honest
in all your dealings; and let it be a pleasure to you to be so,
though thereby you come short of the gains others get
dishonestly; and, as much as in you lies, live peaceably with
all men. Let the truths of God rule in your heads, and let the
peace of God rule in your hearts. Thus the ancient servants of
God drew the notice of heathen neighbours, whose prejudices were
softened. A great increase to the church shall be made. Hitherto
the Jews had been prone to learn the idolatries of other
nations: what more unlikely than that they should teach religion
to their conquerors, and to all the principal nations of the
earth! Yet this is expressly foretold, and it came to pass.
Hitherto the prophecy has been wonderfully fulfilled, and no
doubt future events will explain it further. It is good to be
with those who have God with them; if we take God for our God,
we must take his people for our people, and be willing to take
our lot with them. But let not any one think that mere zeal,
either for Jews or Gentiles, will stand in the place of personal
religion. Let us be living epistles of Christ, known and read of
all men, so that others may wish to go with us, and to have
their portion with us in the realms of bliss.
God's defence of his church. (1-8) Christ's coming and his
kingdom. (9-11) Promises to the church. (12-17)
@Verses 1-8
Here are judgements 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 house
lies in the midst of an enemy's country; his church is as a lily
among thorns. God's power and goodness are seen in her special
preservation. The Lord encamps about his church, and while
armies of proud opposers shall pass by and return, his eyes
watch over her, so that they cannot prevail, and shortly the
time will come when no exactor shall pass by her any more.
@Verses 9-17
The prophet breaks forth into a joyful representation of
the coming of the Messiah, of whom the ancient Jews explained
this prophecy. 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 shall not be advanced by
outward force or carnal weapons. His gospel shall be preached to
the world, and be received among the heathen. 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 at liberty from the horrible pit in which
they must otherwise have perished, without hope or comfort.
While we admire Him, let us seek that his holiness and truth may
be shown in our own spirits and conduct. These promises have
accomplishment in the spiritual blessings of the gospel which we
enjoy by Jesus Christ. As the deliverance of the Jews was
typical of redemption by Christ, so this invitation speaks to
all the language of the gospel call. Sinners are prisoners, but
prisoners of hope; their case is sad, but not desperate; for
there is hope in Israel concerning them. Christ is a
Strong-hold, 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. To him we must turn with lively faith; to
him we must flee, and trust in his name under all trials and
sufferings. It is here promised that the Lord would deliver his
people. This passage also refers to the apostles, and the
preachers of the gospel in the early ages. God was evidently
with them; his words from their lips pierced the hearts and
consciences of the hearers. They were wondrously defended in
persecution, and were filled with the influences of the Holy
Spirit. They were saved by the Good Shepherd as his flock, and
honoured as jewels of his crown. The gifts, graces, and
consolations of the Spirit, poured forth on the day of
Pentecost,
@acts 2
and in succeeding times, are represented.
Sharp have been, and still will be, the conflicts of Zion's
sons, but their God will give them success. The more we are
employed, and satisfied with his goodness, the more we shall
admire the beauty revealed in the Redeemer. Whatever gifts God
bestows on us, we must serve him cheerfully with them; and, when
refreshed with blessings, we must say, How great is his
goodness!
Blessings to be sought from the Lord. (1-5) God will restore
his people. (6-12)
@Verses 1-5
Spiritual blessings had been promised under figurative
allusions to earthly plenty. Seasonable rain is a great mercy,
which we may ask of God when there is most need of it, and we
may look for it to come. We must in our prayers ask for mercies
in their proper time. The Lord would make bright clouds, and
give showers of rain. This may be an exhortation to seek the
influences of the Holy Spirit, in faith and by prayer, through
which the blessings held forth in the promises are obtained and
enjoyed. The prophet shows the folly of making addresses to
idols, as their fathers had done. The Lord visited the remnant
of his flock in mercy, and was about to renew their courage and
strength for conflict and victory. Every creature is to us what
God makes it to be. Every one raised to support the nation, as a
corner-stone does the building, or to unite those that differ,
as nails join the different timbers, must come from the Lord;
and those employed to overcome their enemies, must have strength
and success from him. This may be applied to Christ; to him we
must look to raise up persons to unite, support, and defend his
people. He never will say, Seek ye me in vain.
@Verses 6-12
Here are precious promises to the people of God, which
look to the state of the Jews, and even to the latter days of
the church. Preaching the gospel is God's call for souls to come
to Jesus Christ. Those whom Christ redeemed by his blood, God
will gather by his grace. Difficulties shall be got over easily,
and effectually, as those in the way of the deliverance out of
Egypt. God himself will be their strength, and their song. When
we resist, and so overcome our spiritual enemies, then our
hearts shall rejoice. If God strengthen us, we must bestir
ourselves in all the duties of the Christian life, must be
active in the work of God; and we must do all in the name of the
Lord Jesus.
Destruction to come upon the Jews. (1-3) The Lord's dealing
with the Jews. (4-14) The emblem and curse of a foolish
shepherd. (15-17)
@Verses 1-3
In figurative expressions, that destruction of Jerusalem,
and of the Jewish church and nation, is foretold, which our Lord
Jesus, when the time was at hand, prophesied plainly and
expressly. How can the fir trees stand, if the cedars fall? The
falls of the wise and good into sin, and the falls of the rich
and great into trouble, are loud alarms to those every way their
inferiors. It is sad with a people, when those who should be as
shepherds to them, are as young lions. The pride of Jordan was
the thickets on the banks; and when the river overflowed the
banks, the lions came up from them roaring. Thus the doom of
Jerusalem may alarm other churches.
@Verses 4-14
Christ came into this world for judgment to the Jewish
church and nation, which were wretchedly corrupt and degenerate.
Those have their minds wofully blinded, who do ill, and justify
themselves in it; but God will not hold those guiltless who hold
themselves so. How can we go to God to beg a blessing on
unlawful methods of getting wealth, or to return thanks for
success in them? There was a general decay of religion among
them, and they regarded it not. The Good Shepherd would feed his
flock, but his attention would chiefly be directed to the poor.
As an emblem, the prophet seems to have taken two staves;
Beauty, denoted the privileges of the Jewish nation, in their
national covenant; the other he called Bands, denoting the
harmony which hitherto united them as the flock of God. But they
chose to cleave to false teachers. The carnal mind and the
friendship of the world are enmity to God; and God hates all the
workers of iniquity: it is easy to foresee what this will end
in. The prophet demanded wages, or a reward, and received thirty
pieces of silver. By Divine direction he cast it to the potter,
as in disdain for the smallness of the sum. This shadowed forth
the bargain of Judas to betray Christ, and the final method of
applying it. Nothing ruins a people so certainly, as weakening
the brotherhood among them. This follows the dissolving of the
covenant between God and them: when sin abounds, love waxes
cold, and civil contests follow. No wonder if those fall out
among themselves, who have provoked God to fall out with them.
Wilful contempt of Christ is the great cause of men's ruin. And
if professors rightly valued Christ, they would not contend
about little matters.
@Verses 15-17
God, having showed the misery of this people in their
being justly left by the Good Shepherd, shows their further
misery in being abused by foolish shepherds. The description
suits the character Christ gives of the scribes and Pharisees.
They never do any thing to support the weak, or comfort the
feeble-minded; but seek their own ease, while they are barbarous
to the flock. The idol shepherd has the garb and appearance of a
shepherd, receives submission, and is supported at much expense;
but he leaves the flock to perish through neglect, or leads them
to ruin by his example. This suits many in different churches
and nations, but the warning had an awful fulfilment in the
Jewish teachers. And while such deceive others to their ruin,
they will themselves have the deepest condemnation.
Punishment of the enemies of Judah. (1-8) Repentance and
sorrow of the Jews. (9-14)
@Verses 1-8
Here is a Divine prediction, which will be a heavy burden
to all the enemies of the church. But it is for Israel; for
their comfort and benefit. It is promised that God will make
foolish the counsels, and weaken the courage of the enemies of
the church. The exact meaning is not clear; but God often begins
by calling the poor and despised; and in that day even the
feeblest will resemble David, and be as eminent in courage and
every thing good. Desirable indeed is it that the examples and
labours of Christians should render them as fire among wood, as
a torch in a sheaf, to kindle the flame of Divine love, to
spread religion on the right hand and on the left.
@Verses 9-14
The day here spoken of, is the day of Jerusalem's defence
and deliverance, that glorious day when God will appear for the
salvation of his people. In Christ's first coming he bruised the
serpent's head, and broke all the powers of darkness that fought
against God's kingdom among men. In his second coming he will
complete their destruction, when he shall put down all opposing
rule, principality, and power; and death itself shall be
swallowed up in that victory. The Holy Spirit is gracious and
merciful, and is the Author of all grace or holiness. He, also,
is the Spirit of supplications, and shows men their ignorance,
want, guilt, misery, and danger. At the time here foretold, the
Jews will know who the crucified Jesus was; then they shall look
by faith to him, and mourn with the deepest sorrow, not only in
public, but in private, even each one separately. There is a
holy mourning, the effect of the pouring out of the Spirit; a
mourning for sin, which quickens faith in Christ, and qualifies
for joy in God. This mourning is a fruit of the Spirit of grace,
a proof of a work of grace in the soul, and of the Spirit of
supplications. It is fulfilled in all who sorrow for sin after a
godly sort; they look to Christ crucified, and mourn for him.
Looking by faith upon the cross of Christ will cause us to mourn
for sin after a godly sort.
The Fountain for the remission of sins, The conviction of the
false prophets. (1-6) The death of Christ, and the saving of a
remnant of the people. (7-9)
@Verses 1-6
In the time mentioned at the close of the foregoing
chapter, a fountain would be opened to the rulers and people of
the Jews, in which to wash away their sins. Even the atoning
blood of Christ, united with his sanctifying grace. It has
hitherto been closed to the unbelieving nation of Israel; but
when the Spirit of grace shall humble and soften their hearts,
he will open it to them also. This fountain opened is the
pierced side of Christ. We are all as an unclean thing. Behold a
fountain opened for us to wash in, and streams flowing to us
from that fountain. The blood of Christ, and God's pardoning
mercy in that blood, made known in the new covenant, are a
fountain always flowing, that never can be emptied. It is opened
for all believers, who as the spiritual seed of Christ, are of
the house of David, and, as living members of the church, are
inhabitants of Jerusalem. Christ, by the power of his grace,
takes away the dominion of sin, even of beloved sins. Those who
are washed in the fountain opened, as they are justified, so
they are sanctified. Souls are brought off from the world and
the flesh, those two great idols, that they may cleave to God
only. The thorough reformation which will take place on the
conversion of Israel to Christ, is here foretold. False prophets
shall be convinced of their sin and folly, and return to their
proper employments. When convinced that we are gone out of the
way of duty, we must show the truth of our repentance by
returning to it again. It is well to acknowledge those to be
friends, who by severe discipline are instrumental in bringing
us to a sight of error; for faithful are the wounds of a friend,
@proverbs 27:6
. And it is always well for us to recollect the wounds
of our Saviour. Often has he been wounded by professed friends,
nay, even by his real disciples, when they act contrary to his
word.
@Verses 7-9
Here is a prophecy of the sufferings of Christ. God the
Father gave order to the sword of his justice to awake against
his Son, when he freely made his soul an offering for sin. As
God, he is called "my Fellow." Christ and the Father are one. He
is the Shepherd who was to lay down his life for the sheep. If a
Sacrifice, he must be slain, for without shedding of the
life-blood there was no remission. This sword must awake against
him, yet he had no sin of his own to answer for. It may refer to
the whole of Christ's sufferings, especially his agonies in the
garden and on the cross, when he endured unspeakable anguish
till Divine justice was fully satisfied. Smite the Shepherd, and
the sheep shall be scattered. This passage our Lord Jesus
declares was fulfilled, when all his disciples, in the night
wherein he was betrayed, forsook him and fled. It has, and shall
have its accomplishment, in the destruction of the corrupt and
hypocritical part of the professed church. Because of the sin of
the Jews in rejecting and crucifying Christ, and in opposing his
gospel, the Romans would destroy the greater part. But a remnant
would be saved. And if we are his people, we shall be refined as
gold; he will be God, and the end of all our trials and
sufferings will be praise, and honour, and glory, at the
appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The sufferings of Jerusalem. (1-7) Encouraging prospects, and
the destruction of her enemies. (8-15) The holiness of the
latter days. (16-21)
@Verses 1-7
The Lord Jesus often stood upon the Mount of Olives when on
earth. He ascended from thence to heaven, and then desolations
and distresses came upon the Jewish nation. Such is the view
taken of this figuratively; but many consider it as a notice of
events yet unfulfilled, and that it relates to troubles of which
we cannot now form a full idea. Every believer, being related to
God as his God, may triumph in the expectation of Christ's
coming in power, and speak of it with pleasure. During a long
season, the state of the church would be deformed by sin; there
would be a mixture of truth and error, of happiness and misery.
Such is the experience of God's people, a mingled state of grace
and corruption. But, when the season is at the worst, and most
unpromising, the Lord will turn darkness into light; deliverance
comes when God's people have done looking for it.
@Verses 8-15
Some consider that the progress of the gospel, beginning
from Jerusalem, is referred to by the living waters flowing from
that city. Neither shall the gospel and means of grace, nor the
graces of the Spirit wrought in the hearts of believers by those
means, ever fail, by reason either of the heat of persecution,
or storms of temptation, or the blasts of any other affliction.
Tremendous judgments appear to be foretold, to be sent upon
those who should oppose the settlement of the Jews in their own
land. How far they are to be understood literally, events alone
can determine. The furious rage and malice which stir up men
against each other, are faint shadows of the enmity which reigns
among those who have perished in their sins. Even the inferior
creatures often suffer for the sin of man, and in his plagues.
Thus God will show his displeasure against sin.
@Verses 16-21
As it is impossible for all nations literally to come to
Jerusalem once a year, to keep a feast, it is evident that a
figurative meaning must here be applied. Gospel worship is
represented by the keeping of the feast of tabernacles. Every
day of a Christian's life is a day of the feast of tabernacles;
every Lord's day especially is the great day of the feast;
therefore every day let us worship the Lord of hosts, and keep
every Lord's day with peculiar solemnity. It is just for God to
withhold the blessings of grace from those who do not attend the
means of grace. It is a sin that is its own punishment; those
who forsake the duty, forfeit the privilege of communion with
God. A time of complete peace and purity of the church will
arrive. Men will carry on their common affairs, and their sacred
services, upon the same holy principles of faith, love and
obedience. Real holiness shall be more diffused, because there
shall be a more plentiful pouring forth of the Spirit of
holiness than ever before. There shall be holiness even in
common things. Every action and every enjoyment of the believer,
should be so regulated according to the will of God, that it may
be directed to his glory. Our whole lives should be as one
constant sacrifice, or act of devotion; no selfish motive should
prevail in any of our actions. But how far is the Christian
church from this state of purity! Other times, however, are at
hand, and the Lord will reform and enlarge his church, as he has
promised. Yet in heaven alone will perfect holiness and
happiness be found.
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
This document (last modified July 17, 1997) from Believerscafe.com
Sister Projects: Wikichristian | WikiMD
BelieversCafe is a large collection of christian articles with over 40,000 pages
Our sponsors: