Jesus’ Coming

¹ Watch, for the Day of the LORD is coming…. ⁵ Then the LORD my God will come, and all His holy ones (saints and angels) with Him. ⁶ On that Day the sources of light (sun, moon, and stars) will no longer shine, ⁷ yet there will be continuous day! Only the LORD knows how this could happen. There will be no normal day and night, for as evening time it will still be light. ⁸ On that Day life-giving waters will flow out from Jerusalem, …. ⁹ And the LORD will be King over all the earth. On that Day there will be one LORD — His Name alone will be worshiped…. ¹¹ And Jerusalem will be filled, safe at last, never again to be cursed and destroyed…. ¹⁶ In the end, the enemies of Jerusalem who survive the plague will go up to Jerusalem each year to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. Zechariah 14:1, 5-9, 11, 16, New Living Bible 2^nd Edition

Christmas time is the MOST wonderful time of the year! During this time of the year, many people gather with friends and family to share with others in celebrations and feasting. Even more, the Christmas season is GREAT no matter your situation because we CELEBRATE the living LORD God of heaven coming down to earth in the Person of His Son, Jesus the Messiah (e.g., Matthew 1:1, 16-17, 21-23; Matthew 16:16; Luke 1:68-69; Luke 2:6-7, 10-12; John 20:30-31). Jesus is our Emmanuel – God with us (see Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 8:8; Matthew 1:23).

Over 2,000 years ago, the living LORD God arrived within the Person of Jesus in the small town of Bethlehem (e.g., see Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1, 5-6, 8-9, 16; Luke 2:3-4, 10-11, 15). The whole world knew something was special! The holy angels appeared in the heavens to announce God’s arrival to earth to the shepherds (see Luke 2:8-12). Then, a special star arrived in the heavens to announce to the world’s kings (Magi) to celebrate God’s arrival to earth in the Person of Jesus (e.g., see Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12).

God came to earth in the Person of Jesus to seek and save the lost, and to call EVERYONE to an obedient relationship with His Father, the living LORD God of heaven and earth (e.g., see Luke 19:9-10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21). The Old Testament prophets correctly predicted many times the FIRST coming of God to earth through Jesus the Messiah (Christ) as a Righteous Servant from King David’s family (e.g., see Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 11:1-5; Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Hosea 3:4-5; Micah 5:2; Zechariah 9:9-10). Even more, the Scripture writers also predict repeatedly the second coming (advent) of the LORD to earth (e.g., see Deuteronomy 30:3; Zechariah 14:3-4; Matthew 16:27; Matthew 24:3-14, 27, 36-39; Matthew 25:31-32; Matthew 26:64; Luke 21:25-28; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 1:7-8; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 4:1; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 1 John 2:28; Revelation 3:11-13; Revelation 16:15; Revelation 22:7, 20). Without an opportunity for misinterpretation, one day EVERYONE will finally acknowledge and worship Jesus as LORD to the glory of God the Father. (e.g., see John 13:13; Romans 10:9; Romans 14:9; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Philippians 2:11).

Here in chapter 14, the prophet Zechariah closes his prophecy with visions of divine judgment, salvation, and the LORD’s universal Kingdom at the end of the age (see also e.g., Isaiah 61:1-3; Revelation 11:15; Revelation 19:11-16). Many biblical scholars disagree on how to understand the images in this chapter. To some scholars, the images in chapter 14 reveal catastrophes with mountains splitting in two, a day without light or cold, and people rotting in their feet take on added significances in an era with global warming, greenhouse effects, and nuclear weapons (see Zechariah 14:4, 6, 12). However, others interpret the images in chapter 14 in more symbolic ways. Regardless, the prophet Zechariah makes clear that the end results of the earth’s turmoil will be GOOD NEWS for all obedient believers of God.

Zechariah predicts the living LORD will bring a Day of Judgment that will FINALLY destroy all evil and declare a NEW time of earth’s renewal without sin, evil, and wickedness (e.g., see Isaiah 4:2-4; Isaiah 61:1-3; Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:15-16, 22; Zephaniah 3:1-4, 6-8; Zechariah 13:9; Matthew 25:41; 2 Peter 3:7, 13; Revelation 20:7-15; Revelation 21:1-22:21). With the new heavens and new earth, the LORD will bring a world filled with His goodness, holiness, and without evil (Zechariah 14:21; see also e.g., Isaiah 60:21; 2 Peter 3:11-13; Revelation 21:27). Even more, the LORD will restore the fortunes of ALL His faithful and obedient people – both Jews and Gentiles (e.g., see Isaiah 54:7-17). However, the cowards, drunkards, selfish, judgmental, angry, faithless, unclean, murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars and deceivers will not share in the new heavens and earth but will be thrown into the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death (e.g., see Psalm 5:6; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:5; Hebrews 12:14; Revelation 21:8, 27; Revelation 22:14-15).

Therefore, the Holy Scriptures repeatedly warns EVERYONE to REPENT now and humbly seek the living LORD God and to do what is good and right in hopes of finding refuge from God’s divine judgment (e.g., see Exodus 19:5-6; Exodus 20:1-17; Deuteronomy 30:19-20; Isaiah 55:6-7; Ezekiel 18:23, 30-32; Hosea 14:1; Joel 2:12-14; Amos 5:4, 6; Zephaniah 2:1-3; Matthew 3:8; Acts 3:19-20; Acts 26:20). The living LORD God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked TURN from their evil ways and live good lives for His glory (e.g., see Ezekiel 33:10-12; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9-10, 18).

Hence, the prophet Zechariah encourages EVERYONE to watch for the Day of the LORD’s coming (Zechariah 14:1; see also Matthew 24:42-45; Matthew 25:13). Many biblical scholars believe Zechariah 14 along with chapters 12 and 13 refer to the “Day of the LORD” at end of age when the Lord Jesus Christ returns from glory with this saints and holy angels to establish His Kingdom on earth (e.g., see Zechariah 12:3-4, 6, 8-9, 11; Zechariah 13:1-2, 4; Zechariah 14:4, 6, 8-9, 13, 20-21). The “Day of the LORD” frequently occurs throughout the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament writers (e.g., see Isaiah 13:6, 9; Jeremiah 46:10; Ezekiel 13:5; Ezekiel 30:3; Joel 1:15; Joel 2:1, 11, 31; Joel 3:14; Amos 5:18-20; Obadiah 1:15; Zephaniah 1:7, 14; Malachi 4:1, 5; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Philippians 1:6, 10; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; 2 Peter 3:10).

First on that Judgment Day, the LORD God will gather the nations to fight against Jerusalem and Judah (see Zechariah 14:1-2). In the final three chapters, the prophet Zechariah emphasizes the phrase “all nations” and “all peoples” that come against Jerusalem and Judah (Zechariah 12:2-3, 6, 9; see also Zechariah 14:2, 12, 14, 16). The prophet Zechariah is not the only writer that predicts a final battle. Some biblical scholars believe the prophet Zechariah’s final chapters are part of the famous “battle of Armageddon” described in the book of Revelation when Satan and his evil alliance come against Jesus and His faithful people (Revelation 16:12-16; Revelation 19:19-21; see also Joel 3:9-16). Interestingly, the Lord Jesus predicted Jerusalem’s siege and destruction (e.g., see Luke 21:20-36). Also, the Old Testament prophet Ezekiel describes in chapters 38 and 39 of his prophecy a final battle. Moreover, the prophet Daniel in chapter 11 of his prophecy describes a final battle with times of war and great hardship.

In these Old Testament and New Testament prophecies, Jerusalem will be taken with the houses ransacked and the robbed, the women violated, and half the population of Jerusalem taken away into exile (Zechariah 14:1-2; see also Zechariah 13:8; Matthew 24:40-41; Luke 19:41-44). When all seem lost, the LORD will supernaturally intervene and Himself fight against the evil nations that come against Jerusalem and Judah (see Zechariah 14:3). The living LORD God will go out fully armed for war, and He will fight against the nations that come against His people, Jerusalem and Judah (Zechariah 14:3; see also Joel 3:1-3; Zechariah 9:14-16; Zechariah 12:3-5, 7-9; Romans 8:31; Revelation 19:11-21). The LORD, who is the King and Warrior, fights and protects His people, as we humbly trust and obey Him (e.g., see Exodus 14:13-14, 25; Deuteronomy 1:30; Deuteronomy 3:22; Deuteronomy 20:4; Joshua 10:14, 42; Joshua 23:3, 10; 2 Chronicles 20:15-17, 29; Nehemiah 4:20; Psalm 24:8; Isaiah 30:15; Isaiah 41:10, 13-14; Revelation 20:7-10).

The prophet Zechariah sees the LORD returning to Mount of Olives to fight for His people (Zechariah 14:4; see Isaiah 64:1-5). The LORD’s feet will stand upon the Mount of Olives, which faces before Jerusalem on the east (Zechariah 14:4; see also 2 Samuel 15:30). In the Old Testament, God’s glory departed Jerusalem and stopped above a mountain on the east side of the city of Jerusalem because of the people’s sins (see Ezekiel 10:18-19; Ezekiel 11:22-23). Many biblical scholars believe that mountain was almost certainly the Mount of Olives. Moreover, the prophet Ezekiel predicted the LORD’s glory will RETURN through the east gate of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives when He comes back to earth to set up His perfect Kingdom (see Ezekiel 43:1-5).

Amazingly, God’s glory returned to the Mount of Olives with King Jesus’s Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, which began the Passion Week (e.g., see Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:1, 4-5; John 12:15; Mark 11:1, 9-10; Luke 19:29, 37-38; John 21:12-16). Moreover, Jesus ascended into heaven with the glory cloud at Mount Olives during His FIRST ministry on earth (see Acts 1:9-12). Near this mountain, an angel promised the Lord Jesus Christ would return from heaven at His second coming with a personal and visible return also to the Mount of Olives (Zechariah 14:4; see also Acts 1:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 1:7; Revelation 19:11-16).

Next, the prophet Zechariah sees an earthquake that supernaturally splits the Mount of Olives apart into two to form a very wide and deep valley running from east to west (Zechariah 14:4, 8, 10; see also Micah 1:3-4). Zechariah predicts half the mountain will move northward, and half will move southward (see Zechariah 14:4). Then, the LORD’s faithful people will run and escape through that mountain valley to the other side to Azel[1] (see Zechariah 14:5). Yes, the LORD’s faithful people will escape as long centuries ago from the earthquake when Uzziah was king of Judah (Zechariah 14:5; see also Amos 1:1-2).

Amazingly, the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel envisioned a similar prophecy as Zechariah at the coming of the LORD (see Isaiah 40:1-5; Ezekiel 43:1-5).[2] When the LORD comes, He will not only fight against Jerusalem’s enemies, but He will also comfort Jerusalem and announce the end of her warfare and suffering for her many sins (see Isaiah 40:1-2). Even more, at the LORD’s coming every valley shall be lifted, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain (see Isaiah 40:3-4).

FINALLY, the Zechariah declared the LORD Jesus will come along with all His saints and holy angels with Him and the divine glory of the LORD shall be revealed (Zechariah 14:5; see also Isaiah 40:5; Ezekiel 43:2; Matthew 26:64; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:7; Jude 1:14-15; Revelation 3:11; Revelation 19:14; Revelation 22:7, 12, 20). When Jesus returns, God will bring back with Him the believers who have died and His holy angels (e.g., see 1 Thessalonians 4:14). All God’s faithful people will share Jesus Christ’s glory when He is revealed to the whole world at His second coming (e.g., see Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17).  

During His public ministry, Jesus predicted on multiple occasions that He would return in His glory and the glory of His Father and of the holy angels (e.g., see Luke 9:26-27). Importantly, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, and He predicted His second coming at the end of the world (e.g., see Matthew 24:3, 30). Jesus predicted at His second coming He will come in His Father’s fiery glory on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory with His angels (e.g., see Daniel 7:10, 13-14; Matthew 16:27-28; Matthew 25:31; Matthew 26:64; Mark 8:38; Acts 1:11; Revelation 1:7). Then, Jesus proclaimed that He will send out His angels with the mighty blast of a trumpet, and they will gather His chosen ones from all over the world — from the farthest ends of the earth and heaven (e.g., see Matthew 24:31; John 14:3-4; 1 Corinthians 15:23-24; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Next, Jesus promised that He would judge and reward each person according to what they have done while on earth at His second coming (e.g., see Psalm 62:12; Jeremiah 17:10; Ezekiel 18:20-21; Matthew 13:40-43; Matthew 16:27; Matthew 25:31-46; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Thessalonians 1:7; Revelation 22:12). The Holy Scriptures are clear: the LORD God has set a Day when He will judge the world with justice and fairness through His Son Jesus, whom He has appointed as Judge of the world (e.g., see Matthew 12:36; John 5:22-23, 27; Acts 10:42-43; Acts 17:31; Romans 2:16; 2 Corinthians 5:10). HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS: Everyone that obeys and trusts in God’s Son Jesus is saved from the living LORD God’s coming wrath and judgment at Jesus’ return (e.g., see 1 Thessalonians 1:10).

On that great Day, the sun, moon, and stars will no longer shine yet there will be continuous light with lightning flashes and great fire (Zechariah 14:6-7; see also Isaiah 60:19-20; Joel 2:10, 30-31; Joel 3:15; Matthew 24:27; Luke 21:25-29; Acts 2:16-19; 2 Peter 3:4, 10, 12). The sun, moon, and stars will fade away as they will be overwhelmed by the LORD’s glory! Some biblical scholars believe the flashing light is the Shekinah glory of God (e.g., see Exodus 40:34-38; Ezekiel 1:4; Zechariah 2:5, 10-11). According to Revelation 21:23-25 and Revelation 22:5, these heavenly lights will no longer be needed at the second coming of Jesus. The living LORD God and His Son Jesus will be glorious Light in the new Jerusalem (e.g., see Isaiah 60:19-20; Acts 7:55-56; Acts 9:3-6; 1 Timothy 6:16; James 1:17; 2 Peter 1:17; 1 John 1:5, 7; Revelation 21:11, 23; Revelation 22:5). Zechariah emphasizes that the sun, stars, and moon are NOT gods to be worshipped as only the living LORD God and His Son Jesus are the true Light to be worshipped (e.g., see also Deuteronomy 4:15-19; 2 Kings 17:16). Until His return, the LORD calls His faithful people to show and carry His light into the world (e.g., see Acts 26:18; 1 Peter 2:9-10).

Then, Zechariah declared that only the LORD (Yahweh) can explain this unique and marvelous natural event as only He knows when this wonderful Day will happen (Zechariah 14:7; see also Matthew 24:36; Matthew 25:13; Mark 13:32; Acts 1:6-7; Acts 3:19-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:12). Due to the topographical, cosmic, and cataclysmic changes, ONLY the LORD knows when this special day will happen (see Isaiah 60:19-20).[3]

Some people will say these prophecies are fake and false. However, we must never forget that a day is like a thousand years to the LORD, and a thousand years is like a day (e.g., see Psalm 90:4; 2 Peter 3:8). The LORD is not being slow about His promise, as some people think but rather, He is being patient as He does not want anyone to be destroyed but wants everyone to REPENT before this great Day (see Ezekiel 18:23, 32; Ezekiel 33:11; Romans 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). Until the LORD’s return, the Holy Scriptures encourage EVERYONE to live peaceful, pure, good, and clean lives (e.g., see 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Peter 3:11-14, 18). The LORD’s patience gives EVERYONE time to REPENT and be SAVED from His coming wrath (e.g., see 2 Peter 3:9, 15).

Even more amazing, life-giving waters will continually flow out of Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:8; see also Ezekiel 47:1-2; Joel 3:17-18). Half of the life-giving waters will flow toward the Dead Sea in the east and the other half toward the Mediterranean Sea in the west (see Zechariah 14:8). These life-giving waters will flow year-round and continuously in summer as well as in winter (see Zechariah 14:8). In the new Jerusalem, life-giving waters will flow from the Throne of the living LORD God and of His Son Jesus the Lamb that will produce abundant fruit and radiant light for all that come to the LORD (e.g., see; Revelation 21:6; Revelation 22:1-5). The life-giving waters represent the Presence of the Holy Spirit (e.g., see John 7:37-39). Amazingly, the New Testament writers reminds EVERYONE that we can receive these heavenly blessings of fruit, light, and new life-giving water NOW through faith and obedience in the living LORD God’s Son, Jesus Christ (e.g., see Luke 3:16-18; John 3:3-8; John 4:10, 14; John 7:38-39; John 15:1-5; 2 Corinthians 5:17). These spiritual and life-giving blessings cost NO MONEY but only requires REPENTANCE, FAITH and OBEDIENCE to the living LORD God and His Son Jesus (e.g., see Isaiah 55:1-7; Revelation 21:5-6). Let everyone COME and SEEK the LORD now (e.g., see Amos 5:4, 6).

Importantly, the prophet Zechariah along with others predict the LORD (Yahweh) will finally be acknowledge King, and He will rule and reign over ALL the earth (Zechariah 14:9, 16-17; see also Psalm 22:28; Psalm 47:7; Isaiah 2:2-4; Ezekiel 43:7-9; Daniel 2:44-45; Obadiah 1:21; Zephaniah 3:15; Zechariah 9:9-10; Malachi 1:14; Luke 1:31-33; Revelation 11:15). In that great Day, there shall be ONE LORD and His Name alone will be worshipped (Zechariah 14:9; see also Deuteronomy 4:35, 39; Deuteronomy 6:4-6; Isaiah 43:11, 15; Isaiah 44:6; Isaiah 45:5; Luke 1:32-33; Matthew 28:18-20; Ephesians 4:5-6; 1 Corinthians 8:4-6; John 18:33, 36-37; Philippians 2:6, 10-11). The God the Father, who is the living LORD God of heaven and earth, and His Son Jesus the Messiah (Christ, the Anointed One) will be One as LORD and King, and no other god, human, nor idol will be worshipped (Zechariah 14:9; see also Deuteronomy 6:4-6; 1 Kings 18:20-21, 39; Zechariah 13:2; Matthew 25:31; John 10:30; Ephesians 4:5-6). The kingdom of the world will become the Kingdom of our LORD God and His Messiah to rule and reign forever (e.g., see Daniel 2:43-44; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Luke 1:32-33; Revelation 11:15). Moreover, the living LORD God and His Son Jesus as One will live amongst His holy people, and His people never again have to fear disaster, death, tears, pain, nor sadness (e.g., Zephaniah 3:15-18; Revelation 21:4). What a Day that will be!

The LORD is a transliteration of the proper name YHWH that is sometimes rendered “Jehovah” or “Yahweh” (e.g., see Exodus 20:7; Leviticus 24:16). The LORD of the entire heavens and earth is God Almighty, translated Hebrew meaning “El Shaddai” (shuh-DYE). Also, the LORD is the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, and He revealed His Name (character) to Moses (see Exodus 6:2-3). Importantly, the LORD is His eternal Name to remember for all generations (e.g., see Genesis 4:26; Genesis 14:22; Genesis 26:22; Exodus 3:14-15). To Moses, the LORD came down in a cloud, and He called out His own Name as He passed in front of Moses, calling out:

Yahweh! The LORD! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected — even children in the third and fourth generations. Exodus 34:5-7, New Living Translation 2^nd Edition

Since the beginning of time, the living LORD created humans in His image to have an obedient, faithful, and united relationship with Him as their only true God and share His glory (e.g., see Genesis 1:26-27; Exodus 19:5-6; John 14:23-24; John 17:3-5, 21-23). The LORD God Almighty is all-powerful and all-enough, and He can supply all our needs as we seek Him and walk in goodness (e.g., see Matthew 6:33; Philippians 4:19-20). Therefore, the LORD God Almighty calls ALL PEOPLE to worship Him and walk faithfully and blamelessly with Him in a close and intimate relationship (e.g., see Genesis 5:22-24; Genesis 6:9; Genesis 17:1-2; Psalm 15:1-5; Micah 6:6-8; 1 Thessalonians 2:10-12). Throughout the centuries, the LORD God has sent His holy prophets (messengers) to urge EVERYONE to REPENT and seek, love, and obey Him (e.g., see 2 Chronicles 36:15-16; Jeremiah 7:25; Jeremiah 25:4-7; Matthew 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:34; 2 Corinthians 5:20).

Next, all the land from Geba (the northern border of Judah) to Rimmon (the southern border) will become one vast plain (see Zechariah 14:10). However, Jerusalem will be raised to an elevated site (Zechariah 14:10; see also Isaiah 2:2-4; Micah 4:1-3). Jerusalem will cover the area all the way from the Gate of Benjamin over to the site of the old gate, then to the Corner Gate, and from the Tower of Hananel to the king’s wine presses (see Zechariah 14:10). On that wonderful Day, Jerusalem will be restored, comforted, and fully inhabited, safe at last, never again to be cursed and destroyed because the LORD will dwell within the Jerusalem forever (Zechariah 14:11, 14; see also Isaiah 40:1-2; Jeremiah 31:38-40; Jeremiah 23:6; Joel 3:17; Zechariah 1:16-17; Zechariah 2:4). The Throne of the living LORD God and Jesus the Lamb will be glorious light within Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:11; see also Zechariah 2:5, 10-12; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Jeremiah 31:38-40; Ezekiel 34:25-31; Revelation 22:3).

The living LORD God has set Jerusalem as the spiritual center of the nations with countries all around Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:16-17; see also e.g., Ezekiel 5:5; Joel 3:17). The Holy Scriptures are clear: the living LORD God has a glorious future for Jerusalem (e.g., see Deuteronomy 30:2-10; Isaiah 60:1-2; Jeremiah 29:10-14; Zechariah 8:15; Revelation 21:11). In the future Jerusalem will become a city without walls — bursting with many people and bursting with animals — and yet they will be safe (Zechariah 2:4; see also e.g., Isaiah 49:19; Jeremiah 31:23-28; Zechariah 14:10-11). The living LORD God Himself will be a glorious wall of fire around Jerusalem protecting the people, and He will live within and become the Glory of Jerusalem with His radiant Presence and everlasting Light (Zechariah 2:5, 10-11; see also Psalm 125:1-2; Isaiah 4:5-6; Isaiah 60:18-20; Revelation 21:1-4, 10-11, 22-26).

However, the LORD will visit and send a plague against all the people who come against and fight Jerusalem (see Zechariah 14:12, 15, 18). This plague of the LORD will also strike the horses, mules, camels, donkeys, and all the other animals in the enemy’s camp (see Zechariah 14:15). All enemies of Jerusalem will become like walking corpses, their flesh rotting away; their eyes will shrivel in their sockets, and their tongues will decay in their mouths (see Zechariah 14:12). Next, the LORD will send His terror and panic on the enemies of Jerusalem, and they will fight against each other in hand-to-hand combat (Zechariah 14:13; see also 1 Samuel 14:20-23). All Judah also will fight at Jerusalem (see Zechariah 14:14). The wealth of all the neighboring nations will be seized and collected by the LORD’s people — great amounts of gold, silver, and fine clothing (Zechariah 14:14; see also Ezekiel 39:10, 17; Haggai 2:7-8).

In the end, all the enemy nations of Jerusalem left that survive the plague will go up to Jerusalem year after year to WORSHIP and seek the King, the LORD Almighty and celebrate a time of thanksgiving (Zechariah 14:16; see also Zechariah 8:20-22). Any nations anywhere in all the world that refuses to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD Almighty, will have no rain and will be ruined and punished by the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 14:17-19; see also Isaiah 60:12).

Some biblical translations call this holy time of thanksgiving the Feast of Booths while other biblical translations refer to this celebration as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Feast of Shelters (Zechariah 14:16; see also Exodus 23:16; Leviticus 23:33-43; Deuteronomy 16:13, 14; Ezekiel 45:25). Interestingly, Exodus 23 calls this appointed time of celebration the Festival of Final Harvest or the Festival of the Ingathering (see Exodus 23:16). Today, this celebrated festival is called Sukkot or Succoth. Regardless of the festival’s name, this will be a time of holy assembly with rejoicing that is celebrated for seven days! Interestingly, the prophet Zechariah notes the Festival of Shelters is the only festival still appropriate at the LORD’s return and reign on earth (see Zechariah 14:16). During this seven-day time of celebration, special gifts are presented to the LORD and no ordinary work is done because it is a time of complete rest, rejoicing, and renewed commitment to the LORD (see Leviticus 23:36-40; Deuteronomy 16:13-17). Amazingly, this celebration reveals that the LORD encourages joy and celebration with our families unto Him – our Provider of all good things!

In that wonderful Day, the prophet Zechariah predicts ALL will be holy and purified before the LORD, even the bells on the horses will have decorated on them, “HOLY TO THE LORD” (Zechariah 14:20; see also Zephaniah 3:9-20). All property will be holy, even the trash cans in the Temple of the LORD will be as sacred as the bowls beside the altar (see Zechariah 14:20). In fact, ordinary kitchen pots and container in Jerusalem and Judah shall be sacred to the LORD Almighty as the holy sacramental vessels (see Zechariah 14:21). Finally, the LORD’s original purpose for His people will be realized as they will be holy priests unto God (e.g., see Exodus 19:5-6; 1 Peter 2:5, 9-10; Revelation 1:6; Revelation 5:10; Revelation 20:6). From the beginning, the LORD had desired a holy people that has an obedient and faithful relationship to Him as their only God (e.g., see Leviticus 11:44-45; 1 Peter 1:15-16). In the past, only priests and the Temple had been separated and more holy than the rest of Israel (e.g., see Exodus 28:36-38). The words “HOLY TO THE LORD” had been written on the priest turbans as a symbol of the priest’s holiness (see Exodus 28:36-38; Exodus 39:30-31). In the future, there will no longer be a distinction between the sacred and secular, for everything will be sacred and “HOLY TO THE LORD.”

Notably, the LORD will be on the ONLY God worshipped and served, and we will worship Him in His holy Temple with absolute holiness and singleness of heart (e.g., see Ezekiel 11:14-21; Ezekiel 43:7-12). Even more, everyone who comes to worship the LORD Almighty may use any pot and container free of charge to boil their sacrifices in Jerusalem because there will be no more greedy and corrupt buyers or sellers conducting business in the Temple of the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 14:21; see also Matthew 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45-46; John 2:14-16).

The book of Zechariah ends with the LORD’s holiness covering the earth as He reign from Jerusalem. Zechariah’s message encourages HOPE as the LORD will defeat evil! Amazingly, Zechariah along with the other Scripture writers see that one day the earth will be renewed, and the Presence of the LORD’s glory will fill the earth (e.g., see Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13). Most importantly, ALL the world will worship the KING in the NEW Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:9; see also e.g., Isaiah 60:1-2; Ezekiel 40:1-48:35).

References

ESV Study Bible, English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008).

Message Bible (Colorado Springs, CO:  NavPress, 2002).

NLT Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008).

New Student Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992).

The Living Bible Paraphrase (Tyndale House, 1971).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

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[1] The location of Azel is uncertain and unknown in the Holy Scriptures.

[2] While on earth, Jesus proclaimed that the Scriptures – Moses, all the Prophets, and the Psalms concern Him because all Scriptures testify about Him (e.g., see Luke 24:27, 43-44; John 5:39).

[3] This author acknowledges the various theories and views of the “millennium” as referenced at Revelation 20:1-6. There are multiple theories on when the LORD will return including the pre-tribulation, premillennial, postmillennial, and amillennial views. This author will accept the view of Zechariah, ONLY the LORD knows!

Cleansing of Sins

¹ “On that day (Day of the LORD) a Fountain will be opened for the dynasty (house) of David and for the people of Jerusalem, a Fountain to cleanse them from all their sins and impurity (uncleanness). ² “And on that day,” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies (Yahweh), “I will erase idol worship throughout the land, so that even the names of the idols will be forgotten. I will remove from the land both the false prophets and the spirit of impurity (evil spirits) that came with them…. ⁷ Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, the Man who is My Partner (Associate),” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. “Strike down the Shepherd, and the sheep (of the flock) will be scattered, and I will turn against the lambs…. ⁹ I will bring that group (one-third) through the fire and make them pure. I will refine them like silver and purify them like gold. They will call on My Name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘These are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The LORD is our God.’” Zechariah 13:1-2, 7, 9, New Living Translation 2^nd Edition

Zechariah chapter 13 continues the living LORD God’s message. Many biblical scholars believe chapter 13 along with chapters 12 and 14 refer to the “Day of the LORD” at end of age when the Lord Jesus Christ returns from glory to establish His Kingdom on earth (e.g., see Zechariah 12:3-4, 6, 8-9, 11; Zechariah 13:1-2, 4; Zechariah 14:4, 6, 8-9, 13, 20-21).[1] The second coming (advent) of Christ is the coming of God once again to earth.[2] On this great Day, the living LORD God will bring His wrath and judgment to finally destroy all evil and establish His holy Kingdom on earth through a Spirit of judgment and a Spirit of fire (Zechariah 13:9; see also Isaiah 4:2-4; Isaiah 61:1-3; Luke 3:17; Matthew 25:41). Even more, the living LORD God will cleanse and renew the earth with His goodness, holiness, and purity (e.g., see; Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-8).

On the great Day of the LORD, the prophet Zechariah sees a Fountain opening for the family of David and all the people of Jerusalem (Zechariah 13:1; see also Ezekiel 36:25). This Fountain of life-giving or living water will flow from the from the Throne of the living LORD God and His Son Jesus (Lamb) onto Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:8-9; see also Psalm 36:9; Ezekiel 47:1-12; Revelation 22:1-2, 17). The living LORD God and His Son Jesus will thoroughly wash and cleanse the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem (also called Zion) from ALL their sins, troubles, and evils (Zechariah 13:1; see also John 4:10, 14). God’s cleansing is widespread and includes leaders (represented by the dynasty of David) and all the people of Judah and Israel (signified by the people of Jerusalem) as well as the removal of false prophecies and their underlying evil spirits (see Zechariah 13:1-6).

The living LORD God has set Jerusalem in the spiritual center of the nations with countries all around Jerusalem (e.g., see Ezekiel 5:5). The Holy Scriptures are clear: the living LORD God has a glorious future for Jerusalem (e.g., see Isaiah 60:1-2; Jeremiah 29:10-14; Zechariah 8:15; Revelation 21:11). In the future Jerusalem will become a city without walls — bursting with many people and bursting with animals — and yet they will be safe (Zechariah 2:4; see also e.g., Isaiah 49:19; Jeremiah 31:23-28; Zechariah 14:10-11). The living LORD God Himself be a glorious wall of fire protecting the people and all Jerusalem (His Daughter and Bride), and He will live within and become the Glory of the city with His radiant Presence and everlasting Light (Zechariah 2:5, 10-11; see also Psalm 125:1-2; Isaiah 4:5-6; Isaiah 60:18-20; Revelation 21:1-4, 10-11, 22-26). In the Holy City, all God’s people – Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews) will be righteous (good) and nothing impure, deceitful, and evil will ever enter into the city (see e.g., Isaiah 60:18-22; Galatians 5:19-21; Daniel 12:1-3; Revelation 21:1-8, 27; Revelation 22:14-16).

The Holy Scriptures are clear: the living LORD God and His Son Jesus are our Spring of Living Water and the Fountain with pure water that washes away and cleanses our hearts of all our sins, evils, sickness, and troubles and brings His healing, life, joy, restoration, and gladness (e.g., see Psalm 51:1-2, 7-8; Jeremiah 2:13; Jeremiah 17:13-14; Isaiah 55:1; Galatians 5:19-21; Hebrews 10:22). The living LORD God and His Son Jesus, WHO IS ONE, brings satisfying LIFE, healing, and refreshment (e.g., see John 1:4; John 4:10; John 10:10, 30; John 14:6, 9; John 16:33; John 17:2-3, 20-22). Through faith and obedience, the living LORD God and His Son Jesus sprinkles and cleanses our souls and hearts from sins and brings His life-giving water (Presence) into our lives and hearts so we can be holy and blameless (e.g., see Isaiah 52:13-15; John 1:29; John 15:3; John 7:37-39; John 17:17; Ephesians 5:25-27; Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 2:1-2).

HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS! We can experience this cleansing now! Through faith and acceptance of the Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit cleansing us from all our sins and gives us a new heart and a new spirit of obedience (e.g., see Isaiah 52:15; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Jeremiah 32:38-40; Ezekiel 36:25-28; Ezekiel 37:14; Titus 3:5-7; Hebrews 9:14). However, WE MUST DO OUR PART! The Holy Scriptures are also clear: we must REPENT and make ourselves clean by STOPPING our evil actions and wrongdoing (e.g., see Isaiah 1:16-19; 2 Peter 3:11-14). The living LORD God calls ALL PEOPLE to live like citizens of heaven by DOING GOOD to others and SEEKING JUSTICE with defending the oppressed and taking up the cause of the fatherless, pleading the case of the widow and the helpless alien (e.g., see Isaiah 1:17; Micah 6:6-8; Zechariah 3:6-10; Zechariah 7:8-10; Zechariah 8:15-17, 19; Matthew 6:33; Ephesians 4:1; Philippians 1:27; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; James 1:26-27).

Even more, the living LORD of Heaven’s Armies[3] promises on the Day of the LORD to rid the land of ALL idol worship, so that even the names of the idols, heroes, stars, possessions, and other false gods will be forgotten (Zechariah 13:2; see also Micah 5:10-14; Jeremiah 10:11; Ezekiel 36:25).[4] In fact, the living LORD God promises to erase even the memory of these idols and other false gods from the earth (see Zechariah 13:2). In that great Day, ONLY the living LORD God will be worshipped, trusted, and sought for help and the idols and false gods will totally disappear (e.g., see Exodus 23:13; Joshua 22:5; Isaiah 2:17-18; Jeremiah 23:7; Jeremiah 10:10; Daniel 6:26-27; Acts 14:15; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10)! The living LORD God is GREAT and mighty in power, and ONLY He is the wise King that controls all the nations (e.g., see Psalm 10:16; Psalm 22:28; Psalm 47:8; Isaiah 6:1; Isaiah 12:4-5; Jeremiah 10:6-7, 10, 12-13; Revelation 15:3).

Furthermore, the living LORD God promises to remove and erase from Israel and Jerusalem of ALL lying, unclean, and evil spirits such as false prophets, psychics, witches, sorcery, and fortune-tellers who pollute the lives of people (Zechariah 13:2; see also Jeremiah 23:12, 14-15, 19-20; Ezekiel 36:25, 29; Zechariah 10:2-3).[5] These unclean and greedy spirits speak lies, false hopes, and deception in the Name of the LORD, and they lead people astray into evildoing, adultery, corrupt actions, trickery, and disobedience against the living LORD God Almighty and His moral commands with their diseased words (Zechariah 13:2; e.g., see Jeremiah 14:14-16; Jeremiah 23:10-11, 13-14, 16-17, 21-22, 25-26, 30-32, 36; Jeremiah 28:15-17). These false and evil workers deny justice, and they love evil (e.g., see Micah 3:1-2). Even more, Zechariah predicts in the future that if anyone begins false and lying prophecy again, his own father and mother will obey the living LORD God’s command and STOP that swindling prophet from prophesying lies in the LORD’s Name (Zechariah 13:3; see also Deuteronomy 13:1-11; Deuteronomy 18:20; Jeremiah 23:34; Ezekiel 14:9).[6]

In fact, on the Day of the LORD, Zechariah predicts lying prophets, spiritualists, and psychics will be publicly exposed, humiliated, and then destroyed by the living LORD God (Zechariah 13:4; see also Jeremiah 6:13-15; Jeremiah 8:8-9; Micah 3:4, 7). Moreover, Zechariah foresees that no one will even boast about his or her prophetic gift nor wear prophet’s clothes – a hairy mantle, garment, or cloak (Zechariah 13:4; see also 1 Kings 19:13, 19; 1 Kings 1:8; 2 Kings 2:8). On that Day, every prophet will no longer tell lies and deceptions (see Zechariah 13:4). Instead, these unclean and false spirits will even deny they have been prophesying lies and claim another profession (see Zechariah 13:5-6).

Then, Zechariah’s prophetic message shifts to the Lord Jesus Christ – the Son and Anointed One of God. The living LORD God of heaven came to earth in His Son Jesus Christ (Messiah) as a Servant, Shepherd, and sacrificial Lamb to save, love, and care for the sheep – humans (e.g., see also Isaiah 40:3-5, 9-11; Mark 1:1; John 8:28-30, 42; John 10:11; John 16:27-28, 30; John 17:3, 8, 21, 23, 25; 2 Corinthians 5:19; Philippians 2:6-7; Hebrews 13:20-21; 1 Peter 2:22-25). Truly, Jesus Christ is the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (see John 10:11, 14; Hebrews 13:20).

The living LORD God was pleased to have ALL His fullness dwell in His Son Jesus to reconcile all things to Him (e.g., see John 10:30; Colossians 1:19-20). Through His Old Testament prophet Zechariah, the living LORD God declared that His Shepherd Jesus is His fellow Associate, Companion, and Equal, who stands next to Him (Zechariah 13:7; see also Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 26:63-64; Mark 14:61-62; Mark 16:19; Luke 20:42; Luke 22:68-69; John 10:30; Romans 8:34; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 10:12; Hebrews 12:2). From a human standpoint, the Lord Jesus is the Anointed and Righteous Savior from the family of David that came as the promised King and Ruler to rule and shepherd the people as King (e.g., see Psalm 2:2; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Ezekiel 34:23-24; Ezekiel 37:24-25; Micah 5:2, 4; Matthew 1:1; Matthew 2:2). From a divine standpoint, the Lord Jesus is the Son of the living God and the Messiah (Christ) (e.g., see Matthew 16:16; Mark 1:1; John 20:30-31; Acts 9:20, 22; Acts 18:28).

HERE IS MORE GOOD NEWS! The living LORD God LOVED THE WORLD that He sent His Son, Jesus to save the world (see John 3:16-17; John 4:34; John 16:27-28; 1 John 4:9-10, 19)! The Old Testament prophets predicted the living LORD God would call for the sword against His holy and sinless Shepherd that smitten and afflicted Him with pain and suffering for sake of the world’s sins (Zechariah 13:7; see also Isaiah 53:3-4; Luke 24:26-27; 1 Peter 1:11; 1 Peter 2:21-25; 1 Peter 3:18; 1 Peter 4:1, 13). This sword would pierce, crush, and kill the Shepherd of God (e.g., see Isaiah 53:5, 7-9). With the striking of the Shepherd, the living LORD God announced that the sheep of the flock will scatter and flee (see Zechariah 13:7). However, EVERYONE through faith in the Shepherd’s pain and suffering would receive peace, forgiveness, and healing from the living LORD God because the living LORD God laid on His Shepherd our sins, guilty, and shame (e.g., see Isaiah 53:5-6, 10-12). Truly, the Lord Jesus is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep (e.g., see John 10:11). However, the Lord Jesus bore our sins and shame in His body on Calvary’s Cross so we might REPENT and die to sins and live for righteousness (goodness) (e.g., see Isaiah 53:4, 11; Matthew 26:28; Acts 3:18-20; Romans 6:10-14; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 Peter 4:1-2). The living LORD God LOVED THE WORLD that He sent His Son Jesus into this broken world to transform our lives and hearts from the inside out by the power of the Holy Spirit through FAITH in His Son Jesus (e.g., Romans 1:3-4, 16-17; Romans 5:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 3:20).

The New Testament fulfillment of Zechariah and the other Old Testament prophecies came when the Lord Jesus was arrested and later crucified on the Cross for our sins.[7] The Lord Jesus Christ specifically accepted Zechariah’s prophecy before His sacrificial death for the sins of the world when He informed Peter and the others that they would stumble in their faith on account of Him and scatter away from Him as their Shepherd (see Matthew 26:31-35; Mark 14:27-31; Luke 22:31-34; John 16:32; 1 Peter 2:8).[8] Sadly, Jesus’ disciples shattered from Him at His unjust arrest by Rome and the Jewish religious leaders (e.g., see Matthew 26:56; Mark 14:49-50). Jesus knew He would NEVER be alone because His Father the living LORD God would ALWAYS be with Him (e.g., see John 16:32).

Verse seven of Zechariah 13 is subject to two different interpretations. Some biblical translations say that after Jesus was struck down and the sheep scattered, the living LORD God promised He will come back and comfort and care for the lambs (e.g., see Zechariah 13:7, The Living Bible Translation; Luke 12:32). However, other biblical translations translate the end of verse seven that once the sheep scattered the living LORD God turned the back of His hand against the sheep that turned away from His Shepherd – Jesus Christ (e.g., see Zechariah 13:7, King James Version). Despite the differing interpretations of verse 7, the Holy Scriptures clearly warns that those that stumble and fall away from Jesus the Shepherd will receive a severe punishment. The prophet Zechariah predicted that two-thirds of the people throughout the earth will be devastated and perish because of their rejection of the Good Shepherd, Jesus (see Zechariah 13:8).[9]

The Holy Scriptures speaks of the living LORD God allowing harmful and evil spirits to deceive, terrorize, and torment people because of their many wickedness, depravity, disobedience, and chronic sins towards the living LORD God and His moral commands (e.g., Numbers 22:22, 31-32; Judges 9:22-24; 1 Samuel 16:14-16, 23; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Timothy 1:18-20; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). The living LORD God uses these tormenting spirits as His instruments of to lead people to regret, repentance, and redemption (e.g., see 1 Corinthians 5:5). Even more, sometimes the living LORD God allows a tormenting spirit to keep His servants humble or during periods of testing (e.g., Job 1:6-2:7; 2 Corinthians 12-7-10). The living LORD God and His Son Jesus have power over the spirit world (e.g., see 1 Kings 22:19-23; Luke 22:31-32; Ephesians 6:12). The Lord Jesus instructed His disciples to pray that His Father, the living LORD God, will lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one (e.g., Matthew 6:13). The living LORD God forms the light and create darkness and bring prosperity and create disaster as He can do all these things (e.g., see Isaiah 45:7).  

In the past, Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem defiled themselves and their land by their evil conduct, bad actions, oppression, violence, and injustice (e.g., see 2 Chronicles 34:21, 24-25; Isaiah 1:21; Isaiah 5:7; Ezekiel 5:6-7; Ezekiel 36:16-17). The people of Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem – from the kings, priests, prophets, and the ordinary people – engaged in all kinds of wickedness and evil including sexual sins, greed, murder, jealousy, profanity, lies, bribery, thief, witchcraft, idol worship, as well as mistreatment of orphans, foreigners, and widows (e.g., see 2 Kings 17:7-23; Psalm 106:34-39; Isaiah 1:21-23; Jeremiah 2:7; Jeremiah 3:9; Jeremiah 7:30-31; Jeremiah 16:18; Ezekiel 36:18; Daniel 9:4-6, 10-11). Because of their evil deeds and disobedience, the living LORD God poured out His punishment and wrath on the land and people of Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem, and He dispersed and scattered them amongst the nations (e.g., see Deuteronomy 4:26-29; Jeremiah 33:5; Lamentations 1:1-6; Ezekiel 5:8-17; Ezekiel 36:18-19; Daniel 9:7; Amos 9:8-10).

HERE IS EVEN MORE GOOD NEWS! The living LORD God promised that one-third of all people will remain faithful to Him and His Son Jesus (see Zechariah 13:8). This faithful one-third is what many commentaries call “the remnant” (Zechariah 13:8; see also Isaiah 6:13; Ezra 9:13-15; Ezekiel 11:16-18; Daniel 9:8; Romans 11:5). However, the living LORD God promised He would deliver the one-third that remained through the refinery fire and then test them for purity, as gold and silver are refined and purified by fire (Zechariah 13:9; e.g., see Psalm 66:10; 1 Peter 1:1-2, 6-7). The living LORD God is a consuming and purifying fire (e.g., see Exodus 24:17; Deuteronomy 4:24; Deuteronomy 9:3; Daniel 7:10; Hebrews 12:29). The living LORD God promised that He would change His faithful remnant’s hearts from the inside out by placing a new spirit and heart within His people that leads to obedience to Him and goodness towards others (e.g., see Ezekiel 11:18-20; Ezekiel 36:25-29, 33; Ezekiel 37:12-14). Then, His people will become restored blessings and favor with abundance and no longer a disgrace amongst the nations (e.g., see Isaiah 27:6; Ezekiel 36:9-12, 15, 30-38; Ezekiel 47:12).

The Holy Scriptures are clear: God’s faithful people do experience times of pain, suffering, persecution, burdens, testing, and hardships (e.g., see Job 1:6-2:13; John 15:2; Romans 5:1-5; 2 Timothy 3:10-12; James 1:2-4). During these times of adversity and troubles, the sovereign LORD God Almighty promised to preserve and keep His people safe, and eventually He would bless and restore them into health and abundance if they obeyed His commands and kept faith (complete trust and confidence) in Him (e.g., see Exodus 15:25-26; Job 42:7-17; Psalm 66:8-12, 17-20; Jeremiah 17:5-10; Hebrews 11:1-2, 6). Weeping, testing, and soreness are ONLY TEMPORARY because the living LORD God promised His rescue, healing, and blessing as His grace lasts a lifetime as we seek Him (e.g., see Psalm 30:1-5, 8-12; Matthew 5:10-12). Therefore

Even more amazing, the Old Testament prophets predicted the Lord Jesus Christ, who was filled with the living LORD God, will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap (e.g., see Isaiah 4:4; Malachi 3:1-5). The New Testament revealed that Jesus removes our corruptions and exploitations through the Holy Spirit and perfect our lives like gold and silver so that we can live in righteousness – goodness, virtuous, and moral for God’s glory (e.g., see; Matthew 3:10-12; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:15-17; Acts 2:3-4; Hebrews 12:10-11; 1 Peter 1:14-16, 22; 1 Peter 4:12-19). The glory of God is His Spirit (see 1 Peter 4:14). The living LORD God’s testing is meant to cleanse and purify His faithful people so that we will always wholeheartedly WORSHIP, TRUST, and OBEY Him as the One worthy of respect, adoration, and service (e.g., see Isaiah 48:10-12). The Lord Jesus Christ promised BLESSINGS on everyone who does not reject and fall away from Him during times of persecution, suffering, and troubles but continued to trust in Him (e.g., see Matthew 11:6; Matthew 13:18-23; John 16:33; Hebrews 10:32-34). 

For the faithful, the living LORD God requests the one-third remnant to call upon His Name in the day of trouble (Zechariah 13:9; see also Psalm 50:15; Psalm 81:7; Psalm 107:6-7; Zechariah 10:6). The living LORD God promises He will hear and answer the prayers of His faithful and obedient people that pursue goodness and truth (Zechariah 13:9; see also Psalm 34:15-20; Isaiah 58:9-11; Ezekiel 11:17-20).[10] The LORD is forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to Him in faith and obedience (e.g., see Exodus 34:6-7; Nehemiah 9:17; Psalm 86:5-7; Jonah 4:2). Even more, the living LORD God promises to call the faithful one-third remnant His people, and they will call, “The LORD is our God” (Zechariah 13:9; see also Jeremiah 29:11-13; Hosea 2:23). Finally, the living LORD God will have a people that acknowledge and worship Him and His Son Jesus as LORD!

References

ESV Study Bible, English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008).

Message Bible (Colorado Springs, CO:  NavPress, 2002).

NLT Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008).

New Student Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992).

The Living Bible Paraphrase (Tyndale House, 1971).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Boice, James Montgomery. The Minor Prophets: Volume 2 (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2006).

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[1] The “Day of the LORD” frequently occurs throughout the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament writers (e.g., see Isaiah 13:6, 9; Jeremiah 46:10; Ezekiel 13:5; Ezekiel 30:3; Joel 1:15; Joel 2:1, 11, 31; Joel 3:14; Amos 5:18-20; Obadiah 1:15; Zephaniah 1:7, 14; Malachi 4:5; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Philippians 1:6, 10; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; 2 Peter 3:10).

[2] The living LORD God of heaven has come down to earth on multiple occasions (e.g., see Genesis 11:5, 7; Genesis 18:20-21; Exodus 3:8; Exodus 19:11, 18, 20; Psalm 18:9; Psalm 144:5; Matthew 1:23;  Matthew 17:4-5; John 1:1-5, 14; Acts 7:34). HERE IS SOME GOOD NEWS: God is ALWAYS with us through faith in His Son Jesus (e.g., see Matthew 28:20).

[3] In the Holy Scriptures, the living LORD God is also called the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, the LORD of Hosts, the GOD-of-the-Angel-Armies, LORD All-Powerful, the LORD Almighty, or King (e.g., see 1 Samuel 1:3; Jeremiah 48:15; Jeremiah 50:34). The living LORD God controls angelic beings, human armies, the forces of nature such as fire, hail, and wind, the sun, moon, stars, and occasionally Israel. These heavenly forces are the living LORD God’s agents He uses to protect and defend His people and maintain the universe (e.g., see Joshua 5:13-15; Joshua 10:9-15; 2 Kings 6:17). The living LORD God Almighty is the sovereign Ruler of all, and He controls and maintains all the powers of the heavens and earth (e.g., see 1 Kings 22:19;  Psalm 97:1; Psalm 99:1; Isaiah 6:3; Jeremiah 5:24; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Revelation 1:8; Revelation 15:3; Revelation 19:6).

[4] Idol can be alcohol, food, busy work, shopping etc. Essentially, an idol is anything or anyone we look to for comfort, hope, and help other than the living LORD God.

[5] False prophecy has been a problem for God’s people throughout human history and will be in the future until eliminated by the living LORD God at the second coming of Christ (e.g., see Nehemiah 6:12-14; Matthew 24:4-5, 11, 23-24; Mark 13:22; 2 Thessalonians 2:2-4, 9; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 4:1-3; Revelation 20:7-10).

[6] Yahweh is the eternal Name of the living LORD God for all generations (see Exodus 3:15). In the Holy Scriptures, Yahweh is a translation of the Hebrew letters YHWH that is traditionally translated as the LORD and is sometimes rendered Jehovah.  The living and sovereign LORD God Almighty is known as Yahweh, and He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

[7] The Lord Jesus is the true and reliable Prophet, whose life and suffering fulfill all Old Testament prophecies (e.g., see 1 Peter 1:10-11; 2 Peter 1:19).

[8] Many biblical commentaries believe Zechariah’s prophecies were on the minds of the Gospel writers as they quote from Zechariah’s prophecies and apply these prophecies to Jesus (e.g., see Zechariah 9:9-10 is quoted in Matthew 21:5; Zechariah 12:10 is quoted in John 19:37; and Zechariah 11:12-13 is quoted at Matthew 27:9).

[9] Some biblical scholars have argued that the two-third scattering of the Jews has already been fulfilled. Probably as many as two-thirds of the Jews living in Palestine perished at the time of the Roman victory in AD 70 when Jerusalem and Masada were overthrown, and further Jewish destruction occurred with the Bar Cochba revolt a generation later. During the Middle Ages, there were intense purges against the Jews. Later, evil Hitler exterminated six million Jews during World War II.

[10] Unanswered prayer may indicate we are unfaithful and need discipline and refining by the living LORD God. The living LORD God is good, merciful, and always faithful, and He hears the prayers of those who repent of their sins and wholeheartedly turns to Him (e.g., see Exodus 34:5-7; Psalm 50:16-20; Daniel 9:7, 9; 1 John 1:9).

Spirit of Grace

¹ This message (oracle, burden, prophecy) concerning the fate of Israel came from the LORD: “This message is from the LORD, who stretched out the heavens, laid the foundations of the earth, and formed the human spirit…. ⁷ The LORD will give victory to the rest of Judah first, before Jerusalem, so that the people of Jerusalem and the royal line of David will not have greater honor than the rest of Judah. ⁸ On that day the LORD will defend the people of Jerusalem; the weakest among them will be as mighty as King David! And the royal descendants will be like God, like the Angel of the LORD who goes before them! ⁹ For on that day I will begin to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. ¹⁰ Then I will pour out a Spirit of grace and prayer on the family of David and on the people of Jerusalem. They will look on Me (Jesus) whom they have pierced and mourn for Him as for an only son. They will grieve bitterly for Him as for a firstborn son who has died.” Zechariah 12:1, 7-10, New Living Translation 2^nd Edition

Zechariah chapters 12 through 14 contain the final and great section from Zechariah’s prophecy (see Zechariah 12:1-14:21). In these chapters, the prophet Zechariah takes readers to the end times, and he sees a glorious future for Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem and the defeat of their enemies through their repentance and turning from sin (see also Jeremiah 7:3-11). Even more important, this last section of Zechariah reveals more about Jesus the Messiah and His glorious future as Lord and King at His second coming in power and great glory to establish the promised Kingdom (see Zechariah 14:16-21).

In these final chapters, Zechariah repeats two important phrases. First, Zechariah repeats the phrase in “that day” (e.g., see Zechariah 12:3-4, 6, 8-9, 11; Zechariah 13:1-2, 4; Zechariah 14:4, 6, 8-9, 13, 20-21). Many biblical scholars believe “that day” is “the Day of the Lord” when the living LORD God of glory brings His wrath and judgment at the end of the age to finally destroy all evil and establish His holy Kingdom through justice for His faithful people.[1] Also, Zechariah emphasizes in these final chapters the phrase “all nations” and “all peoples” that come against Jerusalem and Judah (Zechariah 12:2-3, 6, 9; see also Zechariah 14:2, 12, 14, 16). Some biblical scholars believe these final chapters are part of the famous “battle of Armageddon” described in the book of Revelation when Satan and his evil alliance come against Jesus and faithful His people (Revelation 16:12-16; Revelation 19:17-21; see also Joel 3:9-16).

Zechariah’s prophecy came in approximately 500 BC. At the time, the Jews were returning from foreign Exile to their promised land, Palestine to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple (see 2 Kings 24:14-16; 2 Kings 25:11). The Jews were small, and the Persians now ruled the Jews (see 2 Chronicles 36:21-23; Ezra 1:1-4; Ezra 2:64-65). However, Zechariah proclaimed a glorious future for Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem.

Before Christ’s coming to earth at this first coming, the prophet Zechariah had a vision of the future fate of Israel, Jerusalem, and Judah as pronounced by the LORD God (see Zechariah 12:1). Zechariah knew he could trust the living LORD God’s message and predictions because he knew only the living LORD’s sovereign power stretches out the heavens, lays the foundation of the earth, and forms the spirit within humans (Zechariah 12:1; see also Genesis 1:1, 6-8; Psalm 102:25-26; Isaiah 42:5; Isaiah 45:12; Isaiah 48:13; Jeremiah 51:15; Acts 14:15; Hebrews 1:10-12). The living LORD God – Yahweh[2] – is the Creator and the King of the heavens and earth, and only He gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on the earth (e.g., see Genesis 2:7; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Isaiah 40:26; Isaiah 51:13; Jeremiah 10:11-12; Acts 14:15; Acts 17:24-26).[3] In the living LORD God, we live, move, and have our being and power (e.g., see Acts 17:28; Ephesians 3:14-17).[4] The living LORD God watches over and controls the heavens and earth and the very people He gave birth (e.g., Psalm 11:4; Psalm 33:13-15, Psalm 139:13-16; Proverbs 15:3; 1 Kings 8:39; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Jeremiah 16:17; Jeremiah 18:5-6; Hebrews 4:13). Therefore, the true and living LORD God can ALWAYS be trusted (e.g., Jeremiah 17:5-8, 13-14).

Zechariah sees into the future the glorious victory of Jerusalem[5] and Judah through the living LORD God’s grace and power (see Zechariah 12:1-3, 10; Zechariah 14:1-3). In the future, the living LORD God promises to make Jerusalem and Judah strong to withstand enemy attacks (Zechariah 12:2; see also Psalm 118:14; 2 Timothy 4:17). Zechariah predicted that one day all the Gentile nations on earth would come together to attack Jerusalem and Judah, but the living LORD God will make Jerusalem His instrument of judgment. Jerusalem will become like a very heavy and immovable stone or rock against all the nations that will not yield (Zechariah 12:2-3, 9; see also Isaiah 28:16; Joel 3:1-2; Zechariah 10:3-7; Zechariah 14:1-3, 14). Anyone who tries to move this heavy stone or rock will get crushed and cut into pieces though all nations of the earth are gathered against Jerusalem and Judah (Zechariah 12:3; see also Isaiah 8:14-15; Daniel 2:34-35, 44-45; Zechariah 9:14-16; Matthew 21:42-44).

Moreover, the living LORD God promises to confuse, blind, and bewilder any armies and their horses that come against Jerusalem and Judah (Zechariah 12:2, 4; see also Exodus 15:1-21, Deuteronomy 28:28; 2 Kings 6:8-23; Psalm 76:6). For the living LORD God promises He will watch over and keep His eyes open towards the people of Jerusalem and Judah that trusts in Him, but He will defeat all Jerusalem and Judah’s enemies (Zechariah 12:4; see also Psalm 32:8; Psalm 33:18, 21-22). Then, the leaders of Judah will say to themselves that the people of Jerusalem are strong because the LORD of Hosts is their God is their strength (Zechariah 12:5; see also Zechariah 10:5).[6] Truly, if God is for you, who can ever be against you to defeat you (e.g., see Exodus 3:2; Exodus 14:22; Numbers 14:9; 2 Kings 6:16; Psalm 118:6; Isaiah 41:10; Romans 8:31; 1 John 4:4). Those who trust in the living LORD God Almighty need not fear or be afraid because He is with you (e.g., see Jeremiah 1:8, 12).  

Also, in the future, the living LORD God promises to make the clans of Judah like a firepot that sets the forest aflame — like a burning match among the sheaves (see Zechariah 12:6). Judah will destroy or purify all the neighboring nations right and left, while Jerusalem stands unmoved and secure (Zechariah 12:6; see also Zechariah 2:6-8; Zechariah 9:14-16). The living LORD God Almighty declares He will be a wall of fire around Jerusalem, and He will become Jerusalem’s glory within the city (e.g., see Zechariah 2:5, 10-12; Zechariah 8:1-2; Revelation 21:10-11, 23-24). Jerusalem is the apple of the living LORD God’s eye, and He loves Jerusalem with a jealous and affectionate love more than any other city (e.g., see Deuteronomy 32:10; Psalm 87:1-2; Zechariah 1:14; Zechariah 2:8; Zechariah 8:3). Moreover, Jerusalem will become filled with a great number of people and animals living within Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:6; see also e.g., Zechariah 2:4; Zechariah 8:3-5; Zechariah 14:10-11). The living LORD God promises to return to Jerusalem and Judah with His mercy, and Jerusalem and Judah will overflow with prosperity (e.g., see Zechariah 1:16-17).

Then, the living LORD God promises to restore and give His salvation and victory to Judah first, before Jerusalem (see Zechariah 12:7). The living LORD God desires that the glory of David’s house and the glory of Jerusalem’s residents not magnify nor overshadow the ordinary people living in Judah (see Zechariah 12:7). Moreover, Zechariah declares that the living LORD God promises to shield and defend the people living in Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:8; see also Psalm 91:4; Joel 3:16). The weakest and lowliest amongst Jerusalem will be as mighty and glorious as King David, the man after God’s own heart (Zechariah 12:8; see also 1 Samuel 13:14; Joel 3:10; Acts 13:22).[7] Likewise, the prophet Zechariah proclaims that the royal line of David shall have godlike glory, as the Angel of the LORD[8] goes before and leads God’s people (Zechariah 12:8; see also Genesis 16:7; Exodus 14:19; Exodus 33:2; Joshua 5:13-15). Even more, all faithful and obedient people of God will become empowered and strengthened by the living LORD God’s Spirit to overpower and defeat their enemies (e.g., see Leviticus 26:7-9, 11-12; Deuteronomy 28:7; Deuteronomy 32:30; Joshua 23:9-11; Ephesians 3:16-17). The living LORD God declares that His plans is to destroy and make a clean sweep of all the Gentile nations that come against Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:9; see also Jeremiah 46:27-28; Haggai 2:21-22; Zechariah 1:21; Zechariah 9:14-15; Zechariah 14:2-3).

Next, the prophet Zechariah predicts the living LORD God will pour out His Spirit of grace and prayer on the family of David and those who live in Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:10; see also Isaiah 44:3; Ezekiel 39:25, 29; Zechariah 4:6). In the last days, like the other the Old Testament prophets predict, the living LORD God promises to pour out His Spirit on all people (e.g., see Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17). This Spirit will be the living LORD God’s loving-kindness, mercy, and compassion that will bring new life and power (Zechariah 12:10; see also e.g., Ezekiel 37:5-6, 9-10, 14).

At that time, Zechariah predicts the family of David and those who live in Jerusalem will then be able to finally recognize and worship Jesus as both Lord and Messiah and as the One they critically wounded and pierced, without proper ground for a death sentence (Zechariah 12:10; see also Psalm 22:16; Isaiah 53:3, 5; John 19:34, 37; John 20:27; Acts 13:28-30; Philippians 2:9-11). Moreover, the family of David and those who live in Jerusalem will weep and mourn for Jesus, whom they unjustly killed and pierced, as a parent grieves the loss of the firstborn child (Zechariah 12:10, 12; see also Matthew 24:30; Acts 2:23-24, 36-37; Acts 3:14-15; Acts 7:51-53; 1 Thessalonians 2:15; Revelation 1:7). The sorrow and mourning in Jerusalem at that day will be even greater and massive than the grievous mourning for the godly King Josiah, who was killed in the valley of Megiddo (Zechariah 12:11; see also 2 Kings 23:29).[9]

Then, everyone of Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem will REPENT and cry in profound sorrow when they see the pierced and RESURRECTED Messiah (Christ), whom they killed by hanging Him on Calvary’s Cross (Zechariah 12:12-14; see also Matthew 24:30; Acts 5:30-32). The deep and sincere national mourning and repentance will affect the entire community, both family by family and men and women alike. The families of David, Nathan, Levi, and Shimeites will be bowed down with universal grief and mourning — king, prophet, priest, and people, both high and low (see Zechariah 12:12-13). Each family will go into private mourning, husbands and wives apart, to face their sorrow alone (see Zechariah 12:14).

Many biblical scholars see in the verses of Zechariah 12 the Lord Jesus Christ (Messiah). Truly, Jesus is the Rock, Capstone, or Cornerstone of God (Zechariah 12:3; see also e.g., Psalm 118:22-23; Isaiah 61:1-11; Zechariah 4:7; Zechariah 10:4; Matthew 21:42; 1 Peter 2:4-7). Jesus the Messiah is the sure foundation and precious stone of Zion predicted by the Old Testament prophets (e.g., see Isaiah 28:16; Daniel 2:34-35, 44-45; Matthew 7:24-25; Luke 20:17; Acts 4:11-12; Romans 9:33; 1 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 2:19-22). Even more, the Lord Jesus is the powerful and all-seeing Capstone (omniscience) that will defeat and destroy the forces of evil and sin in a single day (Zechariah 3:9; Zechariah 4:7, 10; see also Isaiah 8:14; Isaiah 28:16).

Likewise, many biblical scholars believe Zechariah 12 refers to Jesus the Messiah (Christ) at His second coming in the clouds of heaven to establish His Kingdom on earth (e.g., see Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 16:27; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 1:7; Revelation 11:15). At that moment, the family of David and those who live in Jerusalem will recognize Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah (Christ), and they will acknowledge and worship Jesus as Lord with deep regret that He was the One whom their forefathers pierced and impaled (Zechariah 12:10; see also e.g., Isaiah 52:13; Matthew 24:30; Acts 5:42; Philippians 2:9-11). Only Jesus Christ was pierced for our wrongdoings and wounded for our sins; however, He gives everyone peace, healing, wholeness, and forgiveness through repentance (turning from sin) and faith in Him (e.g., see Isaiah 53:5, 7-8; Acts 10:43; Acts 13:24; Romans 4:25; Romans 5:1; 1 Corinthians 15:3; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 2:24-25). The resurrected Jesus Christ, who is Ruler of the kings of the earth, has freed us from our sins by His blood and made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father (e.g., see 1 Peter 2:5; Revelation 1:5-6; Revelation 5:9-10).

Significantly, Zechariah sees the living LORD God’s outpouring of His Spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem (see Zechariah 12:10). One of the most beautiful parts of the Holy Scriptures is God’s grace! The LORD God’s grace is His kindness and love. HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS! The living LORD God FREELY gives to EVERYONE His Spirit of grace and prayer through REPENTANCE (turning from sin), FAITH (trust), and OBEDIENCE to His only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus Christ (e.g., see Acts 5:32; Acts 8:9-25; Ephesians 2:5, 8-10). The Lord Jesus Christ is grace (e.g., see John 1:14). Out of the Lord Jesus Christ’s fullness we have all received God’s grace through faith in Him (see John 1:16-17). The Lord Jesus Christ is our DIRECT connection to the SOURCE of the Spirit of grace and prayer, His Father – the living LORD God of heaven and earth (e.g., see John 1:51 (NLT); John 15:5; Ephesians 3:7; Hebrews 4:14-16). The living and sovereign LORD God GIVES His grace (favor) to everyone who has faith in His Son, Jesus the Messiah. God’s grace is so connected with Jesus Christ that the Apostle Paul could speak of the “grace of our Lord Jesus Christ” (e.g., see 2 Corinthians 8:9; 2 Timothy 2:1). The overwhelming power of God’s grace is displayed for us in and through His Son, the Lord Jesus (e.g., see 2 Corinthians 12:9).

Moreover, grace is connected to God’s mercy, the atoning death of Jesus Christ, and with our salvation (e.g., see Romans 1:16-17; Hebrews 2:9; Hebrews 4:16; 1 Peter 1:10, 13; 1 Peter 5:10). The Spirit of grace and prayer abides and lives within all faithful believers of Jesus to complete the living LORD God’s good works on earth (e.g., see Romans 5:2; 2 Corinthians 9:14; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 2:12-13). For believers of Jesus, our calling, our witness, our works are all based on the enabling power of God’s Spirit of grace and prayer in our lives (e.g., see Acts 4:33; Acts 6:8; Acts 11:23; Acts 14:26; Acts 15:40; Acts 20:32; 2 Corinthians 9:14; 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12). God’s grace is His sustaining power within our lives and hearts that strengthens us to obey Him and serve to others (e.g., see Hebrews 13:9; 1 Peter 4:10). The Apostle Paul sharply rejected any perversion of the Spirit of grace which failed to recognize that the true experience of God’s grace changes one’s life in the direction of righteousness (e.g., see Romans 6:1, 14-15). GRACE NEVER GIVES FREEDOM TO SIN (e.g., see Jude 1:4).

Some people who read Zechariah and other Old Testament prophecies believe these promises are only for Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem – the Jews. The increased blessings of the Jewish people are one of the LORD God’s covenant promises to Abraham (e.g., Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 22:17; Genesis 32:12; Hebrews 11:12). The faithful LORD God of glory graciously chose the Jewish people as His treasured possession and holy people (e.g., see Exodus 19:5-6; Deuteronomy 7:6-9; Deuteronomy 14:2; 1 Kings 3:8; Acts 13:17).

HERE IS GOOD NEWS - GOSPEL! Through personal FAITH and OBEDIENCE in the Lord Jesus Christ, we Gentiles (non-Jews) also receive God’s abundant grace, righteousness, forgiveness, and adoption into God’s people – Israel and Judah (e.g., see John 1:12-13; John 3:15-17; Acts 10:43; Acts 13:38; Acts 26:22-23; 2 Corinthians 13:4; Romans 1:5-6, 16-17; Ephesians 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:9). In other words, EVERYONE that place their hope and obedient faith in God’s Son Jesus becomes one with His Father, the living LORD God as the true Israel (Jew or Hebrew) and the true children of Abraham (e.g., see Isaiah 56:8; John 10:16; John 17:11; Acts 10:34-35; Romans 2:28-29; Galatians 3:6-9, 26-29; Ephesians 1:22-23). Jesus Christ unites and reconciles all faithful believers in Him – Gentiles and Jews – to His Father, the living LORD God (e.g., see John 14:6; Ephesians 2:15-16, 18, 21; Ephesians 3:6, 12). Believing Gentiles are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of His Father’s household built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief Cornerstone (see Ephesians 2:15-16, 19-22). As part of God’s family through faith in Jesus, we Gentiles can also approach God’s throne of grace with freedom and confidence (e.g., see Ephesians 2:18; Ephesians 3:6, 12; Hebrews 4:14-16).  Through FAITH in Jesus Christ, BOTH Jews and Gentiles share all the glorious blessings and grace of the living LORD God as His children (e.g., see Galatians 3:26-29).

Therefore, love and trust the LORD JESUS with your WHOLE HEART and MIND, because He is the long-awaited Christ (Messiah) predicted by the Old Testament prophets (e.g., see Matthew 1:16; Luke 2:10-11; Acts 5:42; Acts 9:22; Acts 17:3; Acts 18:5, 28; Ephesians 3:17). The living LORD God loves and accepts ALL PEOPLE from every nation who humbly and WHOLEHEARTEDLY loves and serves Him and His Son Jesus by faith (allegiance) and does what is right towards others (e.g., see Deuteronomy 6:4-6; 1 Chronicles 28:9-10; Luke 3:8; Acts 10:1-2, 34-35, 43; Acts 15:9). We have peace and reconciliation with the living LORD God of glory through faith, obedience, and devotion to His Son Jesus, who is Lord of all people (e.g., see Acts 2:36; Acts 10:36; Romans 5:1; Romans 10:11-13; Ephesians 2:14-18).

Reference

Disciple's Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 1988).

ESV Study Bible, English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008).

The Living Bible Paraphrase (Tyndale House, 1971).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

New Student Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992).

Ryrie Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).

Butler, Trent C. Holman Bible Dictionary (Nashville, TN: Broadman and Holman Publishers, 1991).

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[1] The “Day of the LORD” frequently occurs throughout the Old Testament prophets (e.g., see Isaiah 13:6, 9; Jeremiah 46:10; Ezekiel 13:5; Ezekiel 30:3; Joel 1:15; Joel 2:1, 11, 31; Joel 3:14; Amos 5:18-20; Obadiah 1:15; Zephaniah 1:7, 14; Malachi 4:5). The New Testament writers also see the “Day of the LORD” when the Jesus the Messiah (Christ) returns in glory with His holy angels (e.g., see 1 Corinthians 1:8; Philippians 1:6, 10; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; 2 Peter 3:10).

[2] Yahweh is the LORD God’s divine name in Hebrew (see Exodus 3:15 Exodus 20:7; Leviticus 24:16). Yahweh is a transliteration of the proper name YHWH that is sometimes rendered “Jehovah.”.

[3] The Hebrew word ruach means breath, wind, and spirit, and ruach represents the breath of life in humans and animals (e.g., see Genesis 6:17; Genesis 7:15-22) The loss of God's ruach brings death (e.g., see Genesis 1:1-2; Genesis 2:7; Psalm 104:29-30; Psalm 146:4). The ruach is the God-given power to recognize, to will, to understand, and to make decisions. We owe all our spiritual nature and abilities in these areas not to a process of becoming a better human animal but to God's creative ruach working inside our bodies. 

[4] The living LORD God is the reigning and eternal King and Creator who deserves our wholehearted worship, obedience, and love (e.g., Jeremiah 10:10; Daniel 6:26; Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 14:7; Revelation 19:6). Heaven is the living LORD God’s throne, and the earth is His footstool (e.g., see Psalm 103:19; Isaiah 6:1; Isaiah 66:1-2; Matthew 5:34-35). The all-powerful and sovereign LORD God looks with grace and mercy on those who are humble and repentant in spirit, and who wholeheartedly honors Him and obeys His commandments (e.g., see 1 Chronicles 28:9-10; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 66:2-4; Matthew 5:3-4; Matthew 23:12; Luke 18:13-14; Acts 14:15-17; Acts 17:27, 30).

[5] In the Holy Scriptures, Jerusalem is also called Zion.

[6] The living LORD of Hosts is also called GOD-of-the-Angel-Armies, LORD All-Powerful, the LORD Almighty, or King (e.g., see 1 Samuel 1:3; Jeremiah 48:15; Jeremiah 50:34). The Hosts consist of God’s angels, human armies, the forces of nature such as fire, hail, and wind, the sun, moon, stars, and occasionally Israel. These forces are the living LORD God’s agents He uses to protect and defend His people (e.g., see Joshua 5:13-15; Joshua 10:9-15; 2 Kings 6:17). The living LORD God Almighty is the sovereign King of all, and He controls all the powers of the universe (e.g., see Psalm 97:1; Psalm 99:1; Isaiah 6:3; Jeremiah 5:24; Revelation 1:8; Revelation 15:3; Revelation 19:6).

[7] King David was known as a man after God’s own heart, despite his failings with Bathsheba described in 2 Samuel 11. When confronted with his sins with Bathsheba, he repented and renewed his wholehearted allegiance and devotion to the living LORD God only (e.g., see 1 Kings 2:1-4). Because of King David’s devotion to the living LORD God, King David’s family line was blessed with the living LORD God’s only begotten Son, the Lord and Savior Jesus the Messiah (Christ) (e.g., see 2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 132:11; Isaiah 9:6-7; Luke 2:10-11; Acts 13:23).

[8] The Angel of the LORD is God as the Divine Warrior, Rescuer, and Protector (e.g., see Zechariah 1:11; Zechariah 3:1).

[9] The reference is to the slaying of good King Josiah by Pharaoh Neco (see 2 Kings 23:29-30; 2 Chronicles 35:23-24). Josiah was one of Judah’s greatest kings, and he ruled for 31 years. During his reign, Josiah carried out extensive religious reforms, including removing altars, idols, and symbols of ungodly worship from the Jerusalem Temple, and he returned the people to the wholehearted worship of the living LORD God only. Even more, Josiah rediscovered the Law of Moses and acted immediately on what the Law of Moses taught. However, Josiah unwisely thrusted himself into international politics by marching against Egypt, and he died suddenly in battle. Josiah’s untimely death shocked the nation. The story of King Josiah can be found at 2 Kings 22:1 through 2 Kings 23:30 and 2 Chronicles chapters 34 and 35.