Malachi 4 – Living with anticipation

Malachi 4 closes the books of the Old Testament. Between this last book and the coming of John the Baptist, there was an approximate gap of 400 years of silence, during which God did not speak through prophets. This chapter focuses on the judgment and restoration of the people of God.

In the first three verses of this chapter, Malachi refers to the Day of the Lord. This will be a time when God will bring judgment upon the wicked. Verse 1 says it will be a day that “burns like a furnace.” The arrogance and evildoers, like chaffs, will be burnt till nothing will be left of them.

But the righteous will be different. The righteous, those who revere and fear the Lord, will stand firm. The “sun of righteousness” shall arise to these, bringing healing in His wings.  They will experience victory over the wicked, whose ashes will be trampled upon.

In verse 4, Malachi reminds them to remember the Law of Moses given on Mount Horeb, another name for Mount Sinai. More than just a reminder, this is a solemn call for God’s people to be faithful to their covenant with Him. The Law prescribes God's righteous ways, and our responsibility is to uphold them.  

The last two verses close by discussing the future return of the Prophet Elijah. It is said that he will come before the great and terrible days of the Lord. He will restore the relationship by turning the hearts of the parents to the children and vice versa. Here, reconciliation and renewal in the community are indicated so that God will not stick the land.

The question that confronts us is this: Is this the Elijah described in the Book of the Kings? Is he John the Baptist? Jewish tradition fervently anticipates Elijah's personal and physical return before the Messiah arrives, and they are still awaiting and expecting his literal return.  

In Matthew 11:14, Jesus says, “If we are willing to accept it, he (meaning John the Baptist) is Elijah who is to come.” Furthermore, in Luke 1:17, the angel, in describing the Baptist, says he will “go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers back to the children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Isn't this precisely what Malachi 4:6 says he would do?"

As we come to the end of this book, let us be mindful of the importance of remaining faithful to our covenant with God. Just as the people of Israel were reminded to remember the Law of Moses, we should also uphold God's righteous ways and strive to live according to His teachings. We must anticipate the closing of the ages and the fulfillment of prophecy. Be open to unexpected ways in which God may work in our lives and the world around us.

 

Malachi 3:16-18 – How should we conduct ourselves?

No one can ever get away from our all-knowing and all-seeing God. He sees and knows everything. How we live our lives is essential, especially those called by His name. Malachi 3:16-18 tells us that He notes everything we do and knows the distinction between them.

Malachi 3:16 says that God knows those who respect and fear Him. He is aware of their gathering and the things they discuss. He pays attention by listening to their conversation. He notes their faithfulness and records it on a little scroll called “the Book of Remembrance.”   

Verse 17 says He treats them as His treasure, His precious possession, on the day of His judgment. He endears them to Himself and shows mercy, protects, and spares them, like a father sparing his obedient children. Knowing that God will deeply love and tenderly care for them is a source of great comfort.

Verse 18 says that God can distinguish between the righteous and the wicked. And between one who serves Him and one who is not. His justice will be evident. The lives and destinies of the faithful and the unfaithful are distinct and distinguishable.

Remember that God sees and knows everything. He takes note of those who respect and fear Him and treasures them. His justice will distinguish between the righteous and the wicked. Living faithfully for the Lord is a testament to His goodness and our response to His grace. It is an investment in the future and allows our character to be honed. Let’s seek to live faithfully to testify to His goodness.

Malachi 3:8-15 – The principle of tithing

Tithing, a practice deeply rooted in our religious heritage, was essential to Old Testament law. Under the Mosaic Law, a “tithe” - one-tenth of their produce, livestock, and income to be given by the Israelites. This was to support the Levites, the priestly tribe, the temple, and the poor.  The tithe was considered holy and belonged to God.

Numbers 18:21 talks about the tithe to the Levites. God says, “To the sons of Levi, behold, I have given all the tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service which they perform, the service of the tent of meeting.” Then, there is the festival tithe described in Deuteronomy 14:22-27. This is the tithe given to fund religious festivals. The third type of tithe is the charity tithe. Deuteronomy 14:28-29 describes it as given every three years to support orphans, widows, and foreigners.

In Malachi 3:8-15, we see that tithing is not just a financial obligation but an act of trust in God’s provision. It is an acknowledgment that everything we have belongs to God and a way to support His work and care for those in need. This act of trust is a powerful reassurance of His faithfulness.

God in Malachi 3:8-9 accuses the people of Israel of robbing him. They responded by asking God how they had robbed Him. God then told them that they had robbed Him by withholding their tithe and offerings as stipulated.

God then issued them a challenge. He offered to bless them abundantly until they could not hold His blessings if they faithfully brought their whole tithe to the temple storehouse. A storehouse is a place in the temple where the people’s tithes are stored. The “windows of heavens” signified God’s abundance.

In verses 11-12, God makes a profound promise. He pledges to protect their crops from pests, ensuring a bountiful harvest. This promise of protection and abundance is a source of hope, especially for agricultural communities.

Evidently, the people had been murmuring against God. Verses 13-15 suggest that they complained that serving Him did not bring them material prosperity or benefit. They seemed to envy the prosperous wicked and those who did not obey God’s command. This is a thing we must not emulate. Never malign God, no matter what we are going through, because God never has any ill intention for us.     

Tithing is a trust. God expects us to faithfully give back some of what He has blessed us. God's faithful blessing will be evident when we are steadfast in this practice. Not to tithe is to rob God. When we do so, abundance will follow.    

Malachi 2:17-3:7 – The call to repentance

In Malachi 2:17 to 3:7, God confronts Israel’s complaints about His lack of justice and their doubts about His goodness. God then promises to send a messenger, widely believed to be John the Baptist, to prepare the way for the Messiah, who will bring purification and judgment.

In this passage, God calls His people to repentance, reminding them of His unchanging faithfulness and mercy. Despite their history of disobedience, God still offers them a chance to return to Him. Still, He warns that His coming will be one of refining, purifying, and judgment.

The passage begins with God telling His people they have wearied Him by incessantly questioning His justice. They have perceived God as indifferent to evil in allowing the wicked to prosper, implying that God is either approving of evil or unjust. God responded by telling them that He is wearied by their accusations and twisted perception of His justice. In fact, they fail to see that their faults and injustices contributed to the problems.  

In addressing their accusation, God promises to send a messenger. He is widely understood to be John the Baptist. He will come to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah, who will come suddenly. The word “suddenly” suggests the unexpected nature of Messiah’s coming. The people expected a conquering Messiah and did not expect Messiah to come the way He did, to cleanse and purify the people first.

Malachi 3:2-5 then proceeds to describe Messiah’s task when He arrives. Firstly, He will be a Refiner’s Fire and Fuller’s Soap. These metaphors represent the process of purification. A refiner’s fire purifies metals by removing impurities, and Fuller’s soap cleanses deeply.

The Lord’s coming will cleanse the people, especially the priests, the sons of Levi, from their sins. The whole priesthood had been corrupt and unfaithful. Still, God promised to purify them so that they could offer righteous sacrifices again. God wants a spiritual purification that will allow the people to have the right relationship with God.

When that is done, the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and in former years. Here, restoration of Worship is suggested. Once purified, the Worship of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to God. This points to a time when true and righteous Worship will be restored.

However, in verse 5, God promises to bring judgment on diverse forms of sin—sorcery, adultery, false oaths, oppression of the vulnerable and marginalized, such as wage earners, widows, orphans, and foreigners, and general disregard for God. This is how God responds to the people's complaint that He does not deal with evil. He will not delay in bringing judgment on these injustices.

In verse 6, He reminds the people that His unchanging nature is why they have not been wholly destroyed. Despite their unfaithfulness, He remains faithful to His covenant promises. Although they deserve judgment, God's steadfastness and mercy have preserved them.

In verse 7, God calls them to return to Him. He begins by pointing to their recalcitrance. To God, their disobedience is not new; they have been unfaithful since the time of their ancestors. However, God still calls on them to repent, saying that if they return to Him in obedience and faith, He will restore His relationship with them. The people retorted with a question that indicates a refusal to acknowledge their sin, which suggests a more profound spiritual blindness.

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We need to recognize the unchanging nature of God’s faithfulness and mercy. Despite our faults and disobedience, God continues to offer us the opportunity to return to Him. Just as He called the people of Israel to repentance, we are also called to examine our hearts and turn back to God in obedience and faith. Christ’s coming has dealt with our sinful nature and purified us, so we should seek to live a sanctified life pleasing to Him.

Malachi 2:13-16 – Issue of marital fidelity

In Malachi 2:13-16, the prophet deals with marriage and divorce. The people are distraught because God no longer accepts their sacrifices and offerings. Verse 13 says they deeply lament and cover the altar with tears.

They cannot fathom why God rejects their sacrifices. So, God gave them the answer in verse 14. They have broken their covenant with their wives, dealing treacherously with the “wife of your youth,” meaning they have been unfaithful or unjust in their marital relationships. They have dealt treacherously with their marriages and wives.

As far as God is concerned, marriage is a covenant—an agreement made before Him. A wife is a partner and a companion bound by this sacred agreement. Betraying this bond is seen as violating God’s law and spirit.

For God, raising “godly offspring” in a marriage is essential. Marriage and family are integral to His plan. Hence, a divorce or unfaithfulness undermines His goal. They damage the stability and sanctity of marriage and family life.

Thus, in verse 16, God explicitly declares, “I hate divorce.” He hates divorce because it is a betrayal and injustice. What does this phrase “covering his garment with wrong” mean? The garment is a symbol of one’s reputation or identity. To cover one’s garment with wrong suggests that the person is identified by his betrayal of the sacred trust of marriage.

The word “cover” implies that nothing is hidden from God's eyes. God sees through everything. Therefore, He admonishes and warns the people to guard their spirits and not act treacherously in their marital relationships. Here is God’s call for us to stay faithful to our marriage covenants, especially when made before God.

We must uphold marriage's sacredness, prioritize faithfulness, and honor the covenant we have made before God. We must never downplay marriage's sanctity and significance since it is a covenant before God. Being faithful and committed and demonstrating integrity within marital relationships is paramount. 

Malachi 2:10-12 – Behave as believers of God

Despite acknowledging God as their Father, the people of God dealt with each other treacherously. Both Israel and Judah, with their shared heritage and common ancestry, are united in their worship of the same God who created them. Yet their ethical behavior left much to be desired. Malachi appeals to this shared identity as a basis for conducting their relationship ethically with brotherly love.

The prophet raises a poignant question: “Why do we deal treacherously each against his brother to profane the covenant of our fathers?” This question shines a light on the people's moral and spiritual shortcomings, as they are accused of betraying one another. This betrayal goes far deeper than personal interactions; it violates the covenant their ancestors made with God. The breach of trust is a betrayal of individuals and a desecration of the community’s solemn promise to God.

In verse 11, Malachi points to two specific issues. Firstly, the treachery of Judah for forsaking their covenant with God. These people defiled God’s sacred space by desecrating the temple with idolatrous worship. Secondly, the ‘abomination’ of marrying idol-worshiping foreigners. These marriages with foreign women who follow other gods further break their covenant and lead to idolatry.

Malachi strongly emphasizes the need for judgment against those who engage in this particular sin of marrying wives of foreign origin. He suggests that they should be excluded from the community of Israel and unable to take part in temple worship or participate in the life of the covenant community.

Here is how we can apply these verses in our lives: They urge us to prioritize ethical behavior, remain loyal in our commitment to God, and guard against influences that may lead us astray. Firstly, we must uphold ethical behavior in our relationships with others. Learn to treat each other respectfully and with love, even under challenging circumstances. Secondly, be mindful of our loyalty to God and remain faithful to our beliefs and commitments, resisting the temptation to compromise our faith for worldly desires. Thirdly, we should guard against influences that lead to spiritual compromise. For example, marrying the wrong partner may lead a person away from the faith.

 

Malachi 2:1-9 – The responsibility of spiritual leaders

In Malachi 2:1-9, God rebukes the priests for failing to fulfill their duties. This dereliction of duty has resulted in a decline in the moral and spiritual condition of the nation. God urges them to enact urgent reform and warns of potential consequences, including decreased income, public disgrace, and possibly removal from the priesthood.

While these measures may seem severe, they are crucial to prevent the priesthood from becoming so corrupt that it would require abolition, even though God desires to preserve it according to his covenant with the tribe of Levi.

The role of priests extends beyond performing rituals; it is primarily about providing spiritual and moral guidance for the people. Throughout history, priests have been revered as paragons of righteousness, tasked with instructing the populace in observing God’s laws.

Regrettably, during Malachi’s era, their teachings and personal behavior faltered, resulting in their followers being spiritually misguided. They were disobedient and led others astray, thus breaking the sacred covenant between God and the Levites. The consequences were spiritual and moral decay within the community. 

Here are some lessons gleaned from these verses:

Spiritual leaders are responsible for upholding moral and spiritual standards, not just performing rituals. Their failures will impact the spiritual well-being of followers and the wider community. In leadership, partiality and injustice have no place; leaders should serve all community members with fairness and equity. Changes must be made when spiritual leaders neglect their duties; if not, they will face dire consequences. All leaders should be held accountable for their actions and strive to fulfill their responsibilities with integrity and diligence.

Malachi 1:6-14 – Honor God and offer sincere and genuine worship

In Malachi 1:6:14, God begins by stating the universal principle of respect and honor. He said, “A son will honor his father, and a servant his master.” And since Israel has acknowledged Him as master and servant, why are they not doing what is expected?

God accused His people, especially the priests, of despising His name. They had shown God disrespect by offering polluted sacrifices such as lame, sick, and blind animals to Him. They would not consider offering these polluted to their governor and expect to please him, yet they would offer such polluted sacrifices to God and expect Him to be pleased.  

In verses 10-12, God says that He would rather they close the temple and have no sacrifice than for them to offer such abnormal and aberrant worship. While His people would not give him what is due, His name would be highly honored and greatly regarded among the nations that would worship Him.

Implied here is the idea that both Israel and the Gentiles will offer true worship in the future. This prophecy highlights God’s desire for pure and sincere worship and not what is defiled.

Verses 13-14 indicate that the Jews felt that the entire worship ritual was tedious. They not only disrespected God through the poor quality of their offerings, but they also deceived Him. When they were in trouble, they vowed to offer something valuable if He rescued them, but once they were rescued, they presented something worthless instead.

We must respect and honor God and offer Him pure and sincere worship. Seek to offer worship in spirit and truth, i.e., offering our best attitude sincerely. Our worship of God should stem from a genuine relationship with Him. Let us not merely go through the motions and offer worship devoid of connection with Him. 

Malachi 1:1-5 – Understanding God’s love and sovereignty

The purpose of the Book of Malachi is to call out the apathy of God’s people. God’s concern was their lackadaisical attitude toward their covenant with Him. In these opening verses in Malachi 1:1-5, God declares His love for Israel by contrasting His judgment on Edom, the descendants of Esau.

God’s covenant people’s main complaint is that God does not love them. They argue that if He does, He should prove it to them by giving them comfort and prosperity instead of hardship and poverty. Though they had returned from captivity, they were still under foreign rule, and the community was struggling with economic hardship. Besides, they were experiencing spiritual fatigue.

Before Malachi shows them the reasons for their hardship, his first task is to make them see the clear proof of God’s love for them. This is evident in God’s choice of Jacob and not Esau, though nothing in Jacob made him more lovable than his brother. The terms ‘love and hate’ are not used here as emotional terms but to show God’s covenantal choice.  

In verses 3-5, Malachi ably argues that God had treated the descendants of Jacob and Esau differently. Jacob’s descendants, Israel, though punished, are now back in their God-given homeland. But Esau’s descendants, Edom, have suffered a judgment that could never be recovered. Furthermore, Edom’s destruction is a reminder of the incurable wickedness of the future generations of Edom.

What implications are there for us in these verses?

We must trust in God’s Faithfulness. Even in hardship, believers must trust in God’s love and faithfulness. We must acknowledge God's sovereignty and Justice. His rule extends beyond borders, and He will act justly, not only within the lives of believers but also in the affairs of nations and the world. God's election is based on His grace and not human merit. Being a member of God's family should make one humble and not cause one to be arrogant.  

 

Introduction to Malachi

Let us look deeper into the Book of Malachi, the last of the Old Testament books. It is one of the Twelve Minor Prophetic Books written during the post-exilic period after the Israelites returned from the Babylonian captivity. The book of Malachi bridges the prophetic era of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament.

Malachi, the Prophet

The name “Malachi” is deeply significant. In Hebrews, it means “My Messenger.”  Although historical details of the prophet’s personal life are scarce, his message and writings address critical issues in Israel’s religious practices as God’s covenant community. From the meaning of the name, some have falsely believed that “Malachi” is just a title denoting the prophetic duty of delivering divine messages.

Malachi’s Message

Malachi’s prophecy was aimed at the Jewish community, who had become apathetic and disillusioned after returning from exile. Although the temple had been rebuilt, they entertained doubts about God’s love and justice because of their unmet expectations. Hence, in his message, Prophet Malachi addressed issues such as spiritual apathy, corruption among the priests, neglect of tithing, and moral decay. He focused mainly on improper worship and broken covenant relationships, including marriage.

Malachi’s purpose

Malachi’s purpose was to call the people to return to genuine worship and be faithful to God’s covenant. He emphasized God’s love for Israel, reminding them of their obligations to the covenant and warning them of coming judgment if they failed to repent. He also foretold the coming of a messenger to prepare the way for the Messiah, connecting his message to the future hope of redemption amid the struggles of God’s struggles.

Malachi’s urgent message called God’s people to repent and reminded them of God's justice. He was preparing the way for the next phase of God’s plan, which culminated in the arrival of Jesus Christ.

Application

The Book of Malachi calls us to reflect on the importance of genuine worship and faithfulness to God’s covenant. Malachi’s message reminds us to prioritize our relationship with God, and approach worship with sincerity and reverence. From this book, we can learn from Malachi’s call for repentance and recognize the significance of maintaining a strong spiritual connection with God amidst the challenges and distractions of daily life.

Zachariah 14:16-21 – The universal reign of God

As we come to the close of the Book of Zachariah, two clear themes emerge in these closing verses. First is the powerful imagery of living waters, symbolizing God’s transformative work. This is an indication of the renewal of creation in the last days. Second, Zachariah envisions a future where all nations will come to worship the Lord, making Jerusalem an epic and spiritual center for the world.

Here, we see a strong emphasis on all the nations acknowledging and worshipping God. Those who do not will face severe consequences. What happens will highlight God’s mercy towards the remnant and justice towards those who refuse to submit to His authority.

Zachariah 14:16-19 reveals that those who survive the judgment will annually come to Jerusalem to worship the King and celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. This feast, which celebrates God’s provision and presence, will take on a universal significance, further emphasizing the global worship of God.

The last two verses depict the ultimate sanctification of Jerusalem. Even everyday objects like the bells of horses and cooking pots will be inscribed with “Holy to the Lord,” symbolizing the comprehensive dedication of all aspects of life in the renewed Jerusalem to God’s service. This represents the total transformation of society, where everything is consecrated to God, underscoring the comprehensive dedication to God's service.

The emphasis on global worship and the renewal of creation reminds us of the importance of recognizing and honoring God’s authority in our lives. The imagery of living waters as a symbol of God’s transformative work encourages us to seek spiritual renewal and to allow God to work in and through us.

The inscription “Holy to the Lord” on common objects challenges us to dedicate every aspect of our lives to God. We are called to live out our faith in all areas of our lives, not just in specific religious activities.

The prophecy of all nations coming to worship the Lord in Jerusalem reminds us of the universal nature of God’s kingdom and the importance of sharing God’s love and salvation with people from all backgrounds. 

Zachariah 14:9-15 – The ultimate reign of God

Zechariah 14:9 continues the eschatological theme, envisioning a future where the Lord assumes the ultimate kingship. The verses before this one paint a vivid picture of cosmic shifts and grand transformations, culminating in establishing the Lord's universal reign over the entire earth.

Verses 10-11 depict how the lands around Jerusalem will be leveled and the city elevated. Jerusalem is prophesied to become the focal point of God's Kingdom, where His people will enjoy enduring peace and security.

Verses 12-15 discuss God’s judgment on the nations opposing Jerusalem. This judgment will be in the form of a severe plague. In these verses, God’s judgment against the opposing nations is described in graphic detail. The judgment will affect not only the people but also their animals and possessions, making it a very comprehensive judgment.

These verses in Zechariah 14 remind us that amidst the cosmic shifts and changes in the world, there is a promise of the Lord's ultimate kingship being established. It is a powerful demonstration of the Lord's sovereignty and universal reign over all the earth. It calls us to trust the Lord. While doing so, we must seek His wisdom and be challenged to live an impactful life now. 

Zachariah 14:1-8 – The Day of the Lord

Zachariah 12-14 is a series of prophetic and eschatological messages. In Zachariah 14 are some of the climatic events of the last days. It deals with a common prophetic concept of “the Day of the Lord.”

“The Day of the Lord” typically refers to the culmination of events at the end of history and is often closely linked with the expression “that day.” These phrases consistently denote a period during which God directly or indirectly intervenes in human history to fulfill specific aspects of His plan. Many believe “the Day of the Lord” is a significant period or moment when God’s intentions and designs for the world and humanity will come to fruition.

Zechariah 14 begins with a prophecy about “the Day of the Lord.” It foretells a time of judgment for Jerusalem, during which nations gather against the city, resulting in its initial capture, plunder, and devastation. However, this dark beginning ultimately leads to deliverance.

Verses 3-5 describe God’s intervention and Jerusalem's victory. Verse 4 details a significant event: Messiah’s feet touching the Mount of Olive and splitting it. This great and supernatural event will provide an escape for His people. More than anything, it symbolizes divine deliverance for God’s people.   

Verse 4 is commonly seen as prophetic of the Second Coming of Christ, specifically regarding the Mount of Olives. Zechariah 14:4 describes the Lord standing on the Mount of Olives, which splits in two, forming a valley. This imagery aligns with the New Testament eschatological theme seen in Matthew 24:3 and Acts 1:11-12, where the Mount of Olives is a significant location for the return of Christ.

Using vivid, symbolic imagery, verses 6-8 depict a day of God’s ultimate intervention in human history. The cessation of natural light and the unexpected appearance of light in the evening convey the idea that God’s actions will overturn the natural order, bringing about judgment, redemption, and new creation. Ultimately, it highlights that this unique day is under God’s control, where darkness will give way to divine light, symbolizing hope, restoration, and fulfilling God’s promises.

Zechariah 14:8 depicts a prophetic vision of restoration. Living waters flow out from Jerusalem, symbolizing the life-giving power of God’s presence. This continuous flow, unaffected by seasons, emphasizes the eternal nature of God’s provision and the universal reach of His salvation, stretching to all corners of the earth. The verse ultimately points to the fullness of life and renewal that will come with God’s future kingdom.

These verses encourage us to trust God and His ultimate plan. As we anticipate our ultimate redemption, renewal, and the establishment of His future kingdom, we must live godly lives for His glory.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zachariah 13:7-9 – Purified, restored and strengthened

Zachariah 13:7 says that God will strike the Shepherd and scatter the sheep. This is interpreted as a Messianic prophecy. This verse emphasizes an intimate relationship between the Shepherd and God.  The Shepherd, of course, is Christ Jesus. He is the Son of God as well as the Good Shepherd.

The striking of the Shepherd, of course, refers to His death. Jesus, in both Matthew 26:31 and Mark 14:27, quoted this verse before His arrest. In the Gospels, the disciples were scattered because of His crucifixion. Following this historic event came a severe trial, persecution, and suffering for His followers. This explains the last line of verse 7, “And I will turn my hand against the little one.”

Verses 8-9 speak of the refining of God’s people. Two-thirds of the land will be struck down and perish, leaving one-third. There will be a purging, and the remaining third will be put through the fire like silver and gold. These will call on God’s name and have answers from Him. God will acknowledge them as His people, and they will intimately acknowledge Him, saying, “The Lord is my God.”

Messiah’s suffering will bring two clear experiences to His people: purification and restoration. Firstly, the trials His followers will have to endure are a process of refining. Their character will be strengthened and honed through them. Secondly, there will be a restored relationship between God and His people. They will see Him as their Lord, and He will claim them to be His people. Today, we must focus on strengthening our relationship with God through Christ our Lord.  He wants to use life’s trials to refine and improve our faith and shape our character.

 

 

Zachariah 13:1-6 – God desires pure and authentic worship

Zachariah 12 has the eschatological theme of Israel’s national mourning and repentance of Israel over the One whom they pierced. Enlarging on the eschatological theme, Zachariah 13 addresses issues such as purification, judgment, and restoration with God's ultimate triumph.

 Zachariah 13:1 begins by talking about “the opening of the future fountain of God both for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” The phrase ‘in that day’ speaks of a future time. The ‘fountain of God’ indicates the continual abundance of God’s cleansing and purification. ‘The house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem’ refers to Israel’s leadership. Sin and impurity are humanity’s fundamental issues. Here, God is promising purification and forgiveness.

Verses 2-3 suggest that Israel’s chief flaw was idolatry, which the false prophets constantly encouraged. This is where God will start His cleansing process. He will eliminate idolatry and remove the false prophets from the land. To eradicate the land of false prophets and prophecies, the parents of the false prophets will be involved in removing them. This shows us how bent God is on eliminating the means of sin and falsehood.  

Verses 4-6 speak of the purification of God’s people. There will come a time when false prophets will be ashamed of their claims. They will stop prophesying and tear up their prophetic garments in regret. Recognizing the consequences of falsehood, the false prophets will abandon their roles. This emphasizes a time of authenticity and humility.

Interestingly, some have seen verse 6 as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. The mention of wounds received in a friend’s house is seen as a reference to betrayal, which parallels the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot, one of his close followers.

There are two lessons to note: first, sin and impurity are the root causes of one’s estranged relationship with God, and He wants to remove them so we can have a reconciled relationship with Him. Second, false worship and prophecy need to be eradicated. God wants to remove the source of deception to ensure authenticity and holiness in prayer.

Zachariah 12:10-14 – The suffering Messiah and repentance

In the closing five verses of Zachariah 12, while the theme points to the Suffering Messiah, it also talks about the outpour of God’s grace and supplication of the inhabitants of Jerusalem. It is as if they will look upon the one they have pierced and mourn for Him as if He is their only firstborn son.

This passage vividly describes a time of deep mourning in Jerusalem, a mourning of immense significance. “The mourning of Hadadrimmon in the plain of Megiddo'’ is a reference that likely refers to the widespread grief over King Josiah’s death, recorded in 2 Kings 23:29. His tragic death in battle at Megiddo and the subsequent mourning serves as a powerful backdrop to the depth of the mourning prophesied here.

The mourning is not just a collective event but also deeply personal and family. The focus on each family mourning separately—including the house of David, Nathan, Levi, and Shimei—underscores the intimate nature of the sorrow, as each family grieves uniquely. Even the mention of husbands and wives mourning separately during this time serves to highlight the intense and personal nature of the grief.

This prophetic mourning is intricately connected to a future time when the people of Israel will profoundly realize their transgressions. This recognition will inevitably lead to national repentance and sorrow. The reason for their grief is made clear in verse 12. It says, “They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourn for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.”

This passage is also widely interpreted as a prophecy of the Messiah. Christians believe it is a reference to Jesus Christ. In describing His crucifixion, John 19:34-37, Jesus was pierced. The piercing of His side by a Roman soldier is seen as a direct fulfillment of Zechariah’s words. This prophecy of the Messiah, who would be pierced and rejected, is a central theme in Christian belief and understanding of the Old Testament.

In a broader sense, the “piercing” symbolizes the Messiah’s rejection and suffering. For Christians, the passage points to a future time when Israel and all people will recognize the Messiah they had rejected, leading to repentance and mourning, as Zechariah describes.

These verses point to Jerusalem’s mourning for the pierced Messiah and recognizing their part in His suffering. This is a symbol of repentance and spiritual awakening, both for Israel and for individuals. This speaks to the need for continual repentance and recognition of Christ's sacrifice. Just as Jerusalem mourns for the pierced one, we are called to regularly reflect on the cross, recognizing our sins that put Jesus there and turning toward Him in repentance and gratitude.

In talking about the “spirit of grace and supplication” verse 10 is a timely reminder of God’s mercy. It encourages us to seek a deeper relationship with Christ. As we reflect on the sacrifice of Christ, we need to confess our failings and allow His grace to transform our lives. There is also a call to corporate reflection. As the church, we must collectively repent for our complacency and the times we stray from our mission. 

Zachariah 6-9 - Divinely empowered and protected

In the opening five verses of Zachariah 12, God refers to the siege of Jerusalem and how he would protect that city. In this discussion, we will explore verses 6-9, in which God promises to empower Jerusalem and save her and her people. 

This divine empowerment of Jerusalem is like a fire pot and a flaming torch, a powerful force that will consume the surrounding nations depicted as pieces of wood and dried leaves.  Jerusalem will be like a fire that speedily eradicates her enemies. Here is a promise of divine empowerment, a source of strength and judgment, making Judah a force to reckon with.

In verses 7-9, God’s prophetic message describes His protection and deliverance of His people, particularly in Jerusalem. First, the Lord will save the tents of Judah. Here, the tent of Judah represents the rural area compared to the more fortified city of Jerusalem. This will ensure that the glory of the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem will not overshadow Judah.

God will not allow one group of His people to be elevated above the other, which points to God’s impartiality. The house of David, the people of Jerusalem, and the people of Judah are all on equal standing before God. This equality ensures that no one can take undue pride because God’s salvation for His people is equally available to all.  

Verse 8 suggests that God will empower the weak. Even the lowest member among the people can be like King David, who symbolizes strength. This divine empowerment is to the extent that even the weakest of His people will be strengthened in battle.

The last part of verse 8 says, “The house of David will be like God, like the angel of the Lord before them.”  This is to say that the house of David, the ruling dynasty, will be empowered to lead the people. They will be like God in their authority and power, and like the angel of the Lord in their representation of God’s presence among His people.

Verse 9 reinforces God’s protection over His beloved people. Nations that come against Jerusalem will be destroyed. The ultimate triumph over the enemies belongs to God's people. This passage emphasizes God’s protection, the equality of His people in salvation, the empowerment of the weak, and the eventual victory over adversaries through divine intervention.

Four actions plan:

Firstly, trust in God’s promise to protect and empower His people. Be assured of His care and provision in difficult times. 

Secondly, recognize that God’s salvation and empowerment are equally available to everyone, regardless of one's background or status. 

Thirdly, God empowers even the weakest among His people and will uplift and support those who may be vulnerable or in need of strength. 

Fourthly, take heart in the assurance that, ultimately, God’s people will triumph over their enemies through divine intervention and remain steadfast in facing challenges with faith and courage.

Zachariah 12:1-5 – God is for us

In Zechariah 12, God reveals His ultimate plan for Jerusalem. There will be national deliverance and spiritual redemption for her. The chapter points to a future where Israel’s enemies will be defeated. It promises a time when Israel will mourn and repent, leading to divine healing and restoration.

This chapter opens with God declaring His sovereignty. As the creator of the heavens, earth, and human life, His ultimate authority is behind every unfolding event. He controls history and man’s destiny.  

In the following four verses, God assures Jerusalem that He will protect her and will intervene against those nations who are hostile toward her. Attackers of Jerusalem will suffer at God’s dealing. He calls Jerusalem a “cup of reeling” because she will cause the stumbling of the surrounding nations. Because of God’s protection, nations that try to harm Jerusalem will face repercussions and hurt themselves.  The enemies’ charging horses will be confounded as God comes to the rescue of His people. God’s empowerment of Jerusalem will be recognized.

For Christians, the opening verse reminds us that God remains in control of history and the affairs of nations, including current global and personal challenges. Despite the chaos or opposition, we may face, we know God orchestrates all things according to His divine plan. Hence, in our time of uncertainty—politically, socially, or personally— we take comfort in the fact that God is still in control. Our faith in His sovereignty will help us remain steadfast, trusting His purpose even when we don’t fully understand the circumstances.

The church is the spiritual Jerusalem. Just as God protects Jerusalem, He will also protect the church. He will equip us to face spiritual conflict and resist the works of the enemy. We must stand firm in our faith, relying on Him through our prayers and living out the principles derived from His Word.  

Zachariah 11:15-17 – Don’t forsake divine guidance

After portraying the image of good leadership in verses 4-14, God uses Zechariah to point to a future leader who would neglect his flock in the closing verses 15-17. The prophet is asked to play the role of a foolish shepherd. One that “will not care for the perishing, seek the scattered, heal the broken, or sustain the one standing, but will devour the flesh of the fat sheep and tear off their hoofs.”

This portrayal of the foolish shepherd represents a future self-absorbed, self-aggrandizing, and exploiting leadership that will take advantage of the people and lead them astray. It’s a stark reminder that the people’s preference for this kind of leadership is a choice they make, a choice that has consequences. And He will grant it to them by way of His punishment.  

Zechariah 11 depicts a period of judgment and rejection, where the people and their leaders must face consequences for forsaking God. It serves as a profound warning about the dangers of rejecting divine guidance and the consequences of corrupt leadership.

These verses remind us of the severe consequences that can arise from forsaking divine guidance and succumbing to corrupt leadership. They underscore the importance of staying true to our spiritual values and the potential repercussions of straying from them. We must heed the warnings and remain steadfast in following the path of righteousness. Deviating from it will lead to undesired outcomes.

 

Zachariah 11:4-14 – Never reject God’s leadership in our lives.

Continuing with the leadership message in chapter 11, verses 4-6, God instructs Zachariah to act the part of a good shepherd.  He is to care for the oppressed people, doomed to be slaughtered and exploited by the bad shepherds.  Though God cares for wayward Israel, the people are destined for judgment, for the bad shepherds do not care. 

Despite the bleak perspective, Zachariah fulfills his role as a good shepherd. He takes two sticks with him, referring to one as “Favor” and the other as “Union,” representing God’s grace and the people’s unity, respectively. In his shepherding role, Zachariah removes three bad shepherds but also becomes weary of the stubborn people. He leaves them to dismantle themselves, signifying God’s rejection of these disobedient people.

Verses 10-11 depict Zachariah breaking the stick named “Favor” into pieces, symbolizing the end of God’s favor and His covenant with them. In verses 12-13, Zachariah asks for his wages and is insultingly paid only 30 pieces of silver, demonstrating how little the people value God’s leadership. As a response, Zachariah throws the 30 pieces of silver into the temple treasury.

Zachariah’s actions foreshadow Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. In Matthew 27:3-4, Judas tries to return the money, but it is harshly refused. He then throws the 30 pieces of silver into the temple treasury and goes away to hang himself.

The breaking of the second stick named “Union” in verse 14 signifies the fractured society the people desired, where greed and exploitation exist. Additionally, the breaking of the second stick also indicates the division between Judah and Israel.

Here we learn about the consequences of greed and betrayal. It demonstrates the destructive impact of prioritizing material gain over moral values, as seen in the betrayal of Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. We must live with integrity and prefer compassion over greed and personal gain if we desire to build and nurture  a godly and moral life