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The Book of Zechariah
Chapter 9

The 14th prophecy in Zechariah (Zec.9:1-17; 9:9) fulfilled; (Zec.1:8; 10-17) unfulfilled. Next one: Zec.10:1.

Zechariah chapters 9-14 correspond with Isaiah 24-27.

Chapter 8 ends the historic pause, as the Lord now leads Zechariah into the third and last major division of the Book of Zechariah, which could be called "Prophetic Burdens," and can be divided into two parts. The first "burden" deals with the prophetic aspects connected with the First Coming of Christ (Zec.9 through Zec.11). The second "burden" deals with the prophetic aspects connected with the Second Coming of Christ (Zec.12 through Zec.14).

This new division goes over the same ground that was covered in the ten visions, but it is approached from a different angle. It begins with the people of Israel as they were in the days of Zechariah; a small, discouraged remnant trying to rebuild the Temple. God had called Haggai and Zechariah as prophets to encourage them in this rebuilding. Zechariah begins with that local, existing scene, then moves on down into the future when they would experience for a great time the blessing of God.

Then he moves on down through the centuries to reveal that God had a plan and purpose . . . the Coming of the Messiah. We shall see both the Comings of the Messiah: the First Coming as the Saviour and Second Coming as the Sovereign King. His First Coming shows us the cross; His Second Coming shows us the crown.

Syria, Phoenicia and Palestine, were conquered by Nebuchadnezzar, and afterwards by Alexander. Some apply the beginning of this chapter (vs 1-7) to the one event, and some to the other. The end of Zec.9:7 relates to the number of Philistines that would become proselytes to Judaism; (Josephus Antiq. 14:15, 4); and Zec.9:8 shows the watchful providence of God over His Temple in those troubled times. From here the prophet moves on to the most well-known instance of God's goodness to His Church and people, the sending of the Messiah, and looking forward to the peace and greatness of His Kingdom (Zec.9:9-10). The Lord then states that He has confirmed His covenant with His people, delivering them from their captivity, and restoring them to favor (Zec.9:11-12). As a result of this, victory over their enemies, they are promised many kinds of prosperity (Zec.9:13-17). It seems that the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy must be referred to Gospel times.

30 Unfulfilled Prophecies in Zechariah chapter 9:
1. The eyes of all Jews and Gentiles shall be toward the Lord (Zec.9:1).
2. The Lord will cast out Tyrus and smite her power in the sea (Zec.9:4).
3. She shall be devoured by fire (Zec.9:4).
4. Ashkelon shall see it, and fear (Zec.9:5).
5. Gaza shall see it, and be very sorrowful (Zec.9:5).
6. Ekron shall be ashamed (Zec.9:5).
7. The king shall perish from Gaza (Zec.9:5).
8. Ashkelon shall not be inhabited (Zec.9:5).
9. A bastard shall dwell in Ashdod (Zec.9:6).
10. I will cut off the Philistine pride (Zec.9:6).
11. I will take away his blood out of his mouth, and his abominations from between his teeth (Zec.9:7).
12. He that remains shall be for our God (Zec.9:7).
13. He shall be as governor in Judah (Zec.9:7).
14. Ekron shall be as the Jebusite (Zec.9:7).
15. I will encamp about My house because of the army (Zec.9:7).
16. No oppressor shall pass through them anymore (Zec.9:7).
17. I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim, and the horse from Jerusalem (Zec.9:10).
18. The battle bow shall be cut off (Zec.9:10).
19. He shall speak peace unto the heathen (Zec.9:10).
20. His dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth (Zec.9:10).
21. I will render double unto you (Zec.9:12).
22. I will raise up your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece (Zec.9:13).
23. The Lord shall be seen over them, and His arrow shall go forth as the lightning (Zec.9:14).
24. God shall blow the trumpet, and go with whirlwinds of the south (Zec.9:14).
25. The Lord shall defend them (Zec.9:15).
26. They shall devour and subdue with sling stones (Zec.9:15).
27. They shall drink, and make a noise through wine (Zec.9:15).
28. They shall be filled like bowls, and as corners of the altar (Zec.9:15). .
29. God shall save them in that day as the flock of His people (Zec.9:16).
30. The young men and women shall be happy (Zec.9:17).

First Burden . . . Judgment Upon Gentile Nations Zec.9:1-8

Zechariah 9:1 The burden of the word of the LORD in the land of Hadrach, and Damascus shall be the rest thereof: when the eyes of man, as of all the tribes of Israel, shall be toward the LORD. (KJV)

The burden of the word of the Lord . . . "Burden" is something heavy, sad and grievous. It is a threatening prediction of future evils to come upon a people (Isa.13:1; 15:1; 19:1; Nah.1:1; Hab.1:1; Zec.9:1; 12:1; Mal.1:1). It is a prophecy, as in Pro.31:1, which is often sorrowful and distressing, as the destruction of people (Isa.31:1), but sometimes of joyful things (Zec.13:1), and here it contains good news to the church of Christ (Zec.9:9). It is called a "burden" because God's Word is so often so to wicked men (Jer.23:33).

In the land of Hadrach . . . a country which cannot be clearly identified. The land of Hadrach was said to be near to Damascus. Alexander the Great gained possession of Damascus, taking all its treasures, without bloodshed, for the city was betrayed to him.

And Damascus shall be the rest thereof . . . a main city of Syria, the greatest part of this calamity shall fall on this city. God's "fury" rests on those whom He punishes (Eze.5:13; 16:42; 24:13). And His arm, rises against His enemies (Ps.89:10,13; 125:3; Isa.62:8; Jer.21:5; Eze.20:33; Luke 1:51-52).

When the eyes of man, as of all the tribes of Israel, shall be towards the Lord . . . or when the eyes of men shall be to the Lord, and to all the tribes of Israel. When all the eyes of all men shall be only to the Lord, NOT to idols.

The cities mentioned in verses 1-7 trace the march of Alexander's great army down into the Promised Land, now history, but when it was written, it was prophecy. Its literal fulfillment makes it one of the most remarkable accounts that we find in the Word of God.

Alexander the Great left Europe and crossed into modern Turkey, taking city after city. He was cruel and brutal. He obliterated many of the cities mentioned here. Here Zechariah presents to us the march of Alexander. For more on Alexander the Great: . . . . . . . . . . . http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/Middleeastweb/factfile/Unique-facts-MiddleEast5.htm

Zechariah 9:2 And Hamath also shall border thereby; Tyrus, and Zidon, though it be very wise. (KJV)

And Hamath also shall border thereby . . . by the land of Hadrach, or by Damascus; and that it was near Damascus is clear from (Isa.10:9). It is called "Hamath the great" in Amos 6:2.

Tyrus and Zidon . . . these were famous cities of Phoenicia; upon the borders of these our Lord Himself was (Mat.15:21), and of the conversion of the inhabitants of these places the psalmist prophecies (Ps.45:12), and we read of the disciples being here (Acts 21:3).

Though it be very wise . . . especially Tyre, which was famous for wisdom (Eze.28:1-5), which the Lord confounded by the preaching of the Gospel (Lk.6:17-49), and by the foolishness that saved them that believe (1 Cor.1:27).

Zechariah 9:3 And Tyrus did build herself a strong hold, and heaped up silver as the dust, and fine gold as the mire of the streets. (KJV)

And Tyrus did build herself a strong hold . . . Tyre was built upon a rock, and was a strong fortress in itself, from where it got its name, and besides its natural defense, it had a wall supposedly 150 feet high, and quite wide, but it could NOT defend itself against Alexander the Great, who took it. For more on Tyre: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/14554-tyre

And heaped up silver as the dust, and fine gold as the mire of the streets . . . the riches of these cities, especially Tyre, are often mentioned, for they were famous for their wealth, being places of great trade and merchandise (Isa.23:2), all which were to "be holiness to the Lord" (Isa.23:18) and was for the sufficient food and clothing of them that dwell before Him, His ministers.

"Though he heap up silver as the dust" (Job 27:16), Solomon "made silver in Jerusalem as stones" (2 Chron.9:27).

Tyre gathered to herself wealth, as abundant as the mire and the dust, and as valueless. It was said: "Gold and silver are but red and white earth." Tyre's strength was its destruction. Tyre was determined to resist Alexander, "trusting in the strength of the island, and the stores which they had laid up," the strength within and without, of which the prophet speaks.

Zechariah 9:4 Behold, the Lord will cast her out, and he will smite her power in the sea; and she shall be devoured with fire. (KJV)

Behold, the Lord will cast her out . . . "behold" . . . listen, pay attention, for I tell you truth, and although strange, it will be so. "The Lord will cast her out" . . . the Lord will do this, He will eject her out of her inheritance. God will seize into His Hand, and so put them out of all. Tyre's fortifications shall NOT be able to keep her secure.

He will smite her power in the sea . . . the Lord now states how He will do what He has threatened against Tyre. Where their strength lies, He will break them, take away their shipping, and then treasures will waste, trade will fail, and support will not be gotten. Tyre was situated at the entry of the sea, and was strong in it (Eze.26:17).

And she shall be devoured with fire . . . by the enemy in the siege, or at the taking of her. All this was done about 185 years after this prophecy, when Alexander the Great mastered Tyre at sea with a fleet of about 200 ships, took the city, killed many thousands of them.

The fall of her pride was to be that of her overthrow; the sea around her would bury her ruins and wash over her site. Even in the sea the hand of God would find her, and smite her.
Bible prophecy: Zechariah 9:3-4 . . . Tyre would lose its power over the sea
Prophecy written: Between 520 and 518 BC . . . Prophecy fulfilled: Since 332 BC

In Zechariah 9:3-4, the prophet said that the Phoenician city of Tyre would lose its status as a powerful nation on the Mediterranean Sea. Today there is a city called Tyre that is either on, or near, the original Phoenician site. But this Tyre is a small city in modern-day Lebanon, NOT the powerful nation that it was in the days of Zechariah.

Zechariah 9:5 Ashkelon shall see it, and fear; Gaza also shall see it, and be very sorrowful, and Ekron; for her expectation shall be ashamed; and the king shall perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon shall not be inhabited. (KJV)

Ashkelon shall see it, and fear . . . when Ashkelon shall see that Tyre humbles herself and submits, she too shall humble herself and submit also. Ashkelon was threatened by Zephaniah (Zep.2:4), which threat was carried out by Babylon soon after the Jews' captivity, when Nebuchadnezzar wasted the seacoast, and took Tyre. "Shall see it" . . . see the fall of neighboring cities, and fear, as men that have no power to defend themselves, nor any way to flee from the enemy.

Gaza also shall see it, and be very sorrowful . . . Gaza was a city in Palestine, near Ashkelon, that the two are mentioned together (Judg.1:18). The Gentiles of this place, when they saw the progress the Gospel made in Tyre, Zidon, and Ashkelon, were grieved but many submitted to it. It is possible that Philip the evangelist first preached the Gospel here (Acts 8:26). Gaza was an enemy to Israel. "Be very sorrowful" . . . at the news of Tyre's fall.

And Ekron; for her expectation shall be ashamed . . . Ekron was one of the five lords of the Philistines (Josh.13:3; I Sam.6:17). Ekron was also near Tyre, and too, thought it could not be taken. Ekron, famous for idolatry (Zep.2:4), and feared and grieved as much as Ashkelon or Gaza. Ekron's expectation and hope was that that Tyre would break Alexander's power, or hold out against it, and be a refuge to her citizens, who could not hope to withstand the conqueror on its own. "Shall be ashamed" . . . turned into shame and confusion.

In Zec.9:5-7; Amos 1:6-8; Zep.2:4-5, only four of the five main Philistine cities mentioned, Gath is not mentioned. According to the Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, p.657, Assyrian records mention "Gimti in the land of Ashdod", but there are no historical references after that time. Goliath came from Gath (I Sam.17). David took refuge with King Achish of Gath (I Sam.21:10; 27:2-3).

And the king shall perish from Gaza . . . its government shall be overthrown. Literal fulfillment of this prophecy came about after a two month's siege. Gaza was taken by Alexander, 10,000 of its inhabitants slain, and the rest sold as slaves. Gaza would have no more kings.

And Ashkelon shall not be inhabited . . . for some years it was laid by Babylon (Zep.2:4).

If we consider the historical fulfillment of this prophecy, and the Lord's divine judgment which fell upon Syria, Phoenicia, and Philistia through the march of Alexander the Great from Asia Minor to Egypt, we surely can see that God CANNOT lie (Tit.1:2). Prophecy absolutely amazes me. To read where God has said that He would do something, and then later on read where it has been fulfilled, it is awesome!

Zechariah 9:6 And a bastard shall dwell in Ashdod, and I will cut off the pride of the Philistines. (KJV)

And a bastard shall dwell in Ashdod . . . "bastard" = meaning to alienate; a mongrel; born of a Jewish father and a heathen mother; a child of incest; illegitimate birth; mongrel race; one of illegitimate birth; strangers, who have no right of inheritance; not the rightful heir; vile and low men, such as are bastards (Deut.23:2).

"Ashdod" is the same as Azotus (Acts 8:40), and was one of the five lords of the Philistines (Josh.13:3). Some say that the "bastard" here, was Alexander the great, who said that he was not the son of Philip, but of Jupiter Ammon; while others think Jonathan the Maccabee is intended, who took this place and burnt it and the temple of Dagon in it with fire.

And I will cut off the pride of the Philistines . . . by Alexander, and by the Jews in the times of the Maccabees, bringing them into subjection. It does not say that Ashdod will not be inhabited; it just says that there will not be a very high class of people living there. "I will cut off the pride of the Philistines" . . . Alexander the Great brought the Philistine nation to an utter end. They never again emerged as a nation.

Zechariah 9:7 And I will take away his blood out of his mouth, and his abominations from between his teeth: but he that remaineth, even he, shall be for our God, and he shall be as a governor in Judah, and Ekron as a Jebusite. (KJV)

And I will take away his blood out of his mouth . . . blood was forbidden as food to the Jews (Gen.9:4; Lev.7:26). This could refer to the polluted food and idolatrous sacrifices the Jews took part in. God would take away the idolatry of Philistia.

And his abominations from between his teeth . . . "abominations" were things sacrificed to idols and then partaken of by the worshippers (Num.25:2-3; Acts 15:29). The logic here is, "I will cause the Philistines to stop the worship of idols."

Even he shall be for our God . . . "even he," like Hamath, Damascus, Tyre, seems to imply, shall also be converted to God, "the son of the stranger joined himself to the Lord" (Isa.56:3). "Even," may mean, besides the Jews, "even" the Philistine shall worship Jehovah (Isa.56:3-8). And when Christ returns they shall be converted to the God of Israel, "He shall be for our God," says Zechariah. Philistia shall become part of the people of God and will inherit the blessings of Israel.

He shall be as a governor in Judah when the Philistine prince with their respective states is converted, shall equally belong to the Jews' community, as if they were among the "governors" of states "in Judah."

And Ekron as a Jebusite . . . Jebusites were the original inhabitants of Jerusalem, who, when subjugated by David, were incorporated with the Jews (2 Sam.24:16), and enjoyed their privileges: but in a subordinate position civilly (1 Ki.9:20-21). The Jebusites' condition under Solomon was that of bond-servants.

Zechariah 9:8 And I will encamp about mine house because of the army, because of him that passeth by, and because of him that returneth: and no oppressor shall pass through them any more: for now have I seen with mine eyes. (KJV)

And I will encamp about my house, because of the army . . . "army" of profane and wicked men, persecutors and heretics, who rose up in great numbers in the first ages of Christianity against the church, the House of God, where He dwells, which consisted of persons called from among the Gentiles. As in Zec.2:5, in order to protect and defend them from that great company which opposed them, the Lord encamped around them, partly by his angels (Ps.34:7), and partly by His pastors, set for the defense of the Gospel; but mainly by His own power and Presence, who is as a fire round about them. The Lord causes His glorious Shekinah to dwell in His House, and the strength of the arm of His power "will be unto her a wall of fire round about" it.

Calling of the Gentiles: (Gen.18:18; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14; Ps.2:8; 22:27; 68:31; 86:9; 98:3; 102:15; Isa.2:2; 9:2; 11:10; 18:7; 19:18,21,24; 27:6; 42:1; 44:5; 45:14; 49:6,22; 53:10-12; 54:1; 55:5; 56:7; 57:19; 60:3; 61:11; 62:2; Jer.3:17; Eze.47:22; Hos.2:23; Mic.4:2; Zep.2:11; 3:10; Zec.8:20-21; 9:7; 14:16; Mal.1:11; Mat.8:11; 12:21; 24:14; Lk.2:32; Jn.10:16; Acts 2:39; 13:42,46; 15:14; 26:17-18; Rom.4:17; 11:24; 1 Cor.9:21; Gal.1:16; 3:8,26-29; Eph.3:6; 1 Thes.2:14-16; 2 Tim.4:17; Rev.21:24).

Because of him that passeth by, and because of him that returneth . . . either that His people might pass and return with safety, who attended the worship and service of His House; or because of Satan and wicked men, who go to and fro (Job.1:7; 2:2), wanting to do all the evil they can to the saints of the most High. Literally, this may show the Lord's watchful over the Jewish nation, His church and people, in the times of Alexander, who passed to and fro without distressing them; or in the times of the Lagidae and Seleucidae, the kings of Egypt and Syria (Dan.2:40-43), during those commotions, and their passing to and fro against each other, and against them, were still continued a kingdom.

And no oppressor shall pass through them any more . . . this passes from the immediate future to the final deliverance which shall come. No evil oppressor shall ever pass through them again . . . NO more ingress and egress to do Israel harm.

Days to come: (Isa.2:1-5; 4:3-4; 11:1-12; 25:8; 26:1; 29:23; 35:10; 43:5-7; 51:2-3; 60:18-22; 62:4; Ps.36:5-9; 37:11,22; 72:3-7; 92:12-15; Eze.28:24-26; Mic.4:1-7; Zec.9:8; 14:20-21; Mat.5:5; 15:13; 2 Pet.3:13-14; Rev.5:10; 7:15-17; 19:1-6; 21:4,22-27; 22:1-6)

For now have I seen with mine eyes . . . this is either God's Words while looking with pleasure upon His church and His people, about Whom He encamps; and upon the satisfaction His Son has given to the divine justice for the sins of their enemies, for now the Jews are free from all exactions and oppressions . . . OR this is the words of Zechariah, who saw with his eyes, in the visions of the night, all that is contained in this prophecy; and now, because all this predicted was to be fulfilled in, or near the times of Christ, now comes a glorious prophecy of His Coming.

Brief Summary of Zechariah 9:1-8

Zechariah 9:1-8 record the judgments foretold on several nations. While the Macedonians and Alexander's successors were at war in these countries, the Lord promised to protect His people. God's House was in the midst of an enemy's country; His Church was as a beautiful, fragile flower surrounded by thorns. The Lord's awesome power and grace are seen in her being preserved. The Lord encamped around His people (Zec.9:8), while an army of proud opposers shall pass by and return, but His Eyes watch over His own, so that the enemy CANNOT prevail, and the time will come when NO evil extortioner shall pass by them ever again.

The Coming King Zec. 9:9-17

The next verse is one of the most remarkable in the Scriptures. We usaully hear a message from it on Palm Sunday because it has to do with the so-called triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem.

Zechariah 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. (KJV)

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem . . . this is meant, not just the inhabitants of Jerusalem, nor the children in it, that said Hosannas to the son of David (Mat.21:9,15; Mk.11:9-10; Jn.12:13); but the church of God, and TRUE believers in Christ Jesus (Gal.3:26-29), who are called upon to "rejoice" and "shout" . . . NOT just with outward joy, but from a joy from deep within, from grateful hearts. God's people are called to "rejoice" at the coming of her King (Ps.2:11-12).

Behold, thy King cometh unto thee . . . Christ Jesus, the Messiah does NOT come for His own benefit, gain or pleasure, like earthly kings do. He comes for the sake of His Church, His people, and especially so for the Jews' sake, at His Second Coming (Rom.11:26; Zec.14:1-4; Rev.19:11-21).

He is just . . . righteous is an attribute constantly given to Messiah (Ps.72:1-2; Isa.4:2-3; 9:7; 11:1-5; 32:1-2; 40:10-11; 45:21; 52:13; 53:2,11; Jer.22:3,15; 23:5-6; 31:31-38; 33:14-16; Dan.9:24; Amos 9:11-15; Zec.3:8; 6:12-13; 9:9; Rev.19:11).

And concerning salvation, Christ Jesus does not simply pardon our sin, He justifies it (Rom.3:24-25; 5:1) by becoming the Lord, our righteousness (1 Cor.1:30), so we receive not only mercy, but justice, when we come by faith to Jesus (Eph.2:8-9), we become one with Christ (Gal.3:28; Col.3:11). God's justice is NOT set aside by the sinner's salvation, but instead it is magnified and made honorable by it (Isa.42:1,21; Rom.3:24-28; 2 Cor.5:19-21; Phil.3:9).

The Messiah's future reign "in righteousness," also, is especially referred to (Isa.32:1; 45:6-7; Ps.72:1-2; 99:4; Jer.23:5-6; 33:15; Rom.5:21; Heb.1:8-9; Rev.19:11; 17:14).

BUT . . . Messiah shall come to take "just" vengeance upon His foes, before His reign of peace (Rev.20:11-15).

And having salvation . . . the Messiah has the salvation of and for His church and His people; which He not only has at heart, but also has power to perform it (Heb.12:2; Phil.1:6; Ps.73:24; 138:8; 1 Thes.5:24), because He has been appointed to that service by His Father.

Lowly . . . mild-mannered, meek and humble, when Jesus (God) became a Man (Jn.1:1-2,14; 3:16; 10:30). Incarnation prophesied: (Gen.3:15; Deut.18:15-18; {Acts 3:22-23; 7:37}; Ps.2:7; {Acts 13:33; Heb.1:5}; Ps.22:1-31; Isa.7:14; 9:6; 11:1; Jer.23:5; Mic.5:2; Zec.9:9; 14:3-4; Mal.3:1).

Jesus the Messiah was born of poor parents. He had not a place where to lay his head (Mat.8:20), and was ministered unto by others (2 Cor.8:9). My friend, there is a "damnable heresy" (2 Pet.2:1) in today's churches that say that Jesus was very wealthy, He was rich! That is NOT so according to the Bible! BEWARE!!! That is the devil's doctrine! (1 Tim.4:1).

And riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass . . . which was fulfilled (Mat.21:4-5). Some misunderstand this phrase. Jesus did NOT ride upon both "an ass" AND "the foal of an ass" but just on "the foal of an ass." "And sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass" (Mat.21:5). "Colt" means unbroken, untamed, "whereon yet never man sat" (Lk.19:30). The "ass colts" is a symbol of a triumphant conqueror and a judge (Judg.5:10; 10:4; 12:14). There should be no doubt that the prophet sees the glorious victories of the Messiah.

Zechariah 9:10 And I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim, and the horse from Jerusalem, and the battle bow shall be cut off: and he shall speak peace unto the heathen: and his dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth. (KJV)

And I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim . . . cut off the chariots of war, meaning that wars shall cease (Ps.46:9). For more on Ephraim: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/5793-ephraim

And the horse from Jerusalem . . . horses were a symbol of war, which shall cease: (Mic.5:10; Deut.17:16; Josh.11:4 ; Ps.33:17; Pro.21:31; Isa.2:7; 31:1,3; Jer.50:37; Eze.26:11; 27:14; 38:15; Nah.3:2-3). All instruments of war shall be removed from them, and there shall be an entire peace between them (Isa.11:13).

And the battle bow shall be cut off . . . "battle bow" is another instrument of war. The Lord shall break the strength of those that make war, the armies of the people. Battle bow: (Zec.10:4; Ps.76:3; Hos.2:18).

All this does not mean so much the outward peace that would be in the world at the birth of Christ, as much as the spiritual peace of His coming Kingdom . . . and that, is not of this world, and it cannot be spread, supported and defended by carnal weapons. This looks forward to the peace and safety of His subjects, and the utter destruction of their enemies.

And he shall speak peace unto the heathen . . . not only this church of Christ, gathered out of the Jews, will enjoy great spiritual peace, prosperity and safety; but the Gentiles also should share in it, to whom Christ went, and preached peace; not in His own Person, but by His apostles, who had the ministration of reconciliation committed to them (Mat.28:19-20). These men were sent forth by Christ, went everywhere preaching peace by Him, who is Lord of all, unto all nations (Eph.2:17-18).

And his dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth . . . according to some Jews, from the Red Sea to the sea of the Philistines, and from the river Euphrates to the ends of the earth, or as others say: "from the sea to the west, and from Euphrates to the ends of the earth.'' This simply expresses how extensive Christ's Kingdom shall be, through the preaching of the Gospel, both in Judea and in the Gentile world, before the destruction of Jerusalem; and more so in the latter day (Ps.72:8). NO power of man or creature will be able to stop this Kingdom of Christ. He shall peaceably govern it by His Holy and righteous Word.
See more on the boundary of the Promised Land:
http://www.hisservants.org/israel_promised_land_h_s.htm

Zechariah 9:11 As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit wherein is no water. (KJV)

As for thee also . . . meaning the daughter of Zion or Jerusalem (Zec.9:9). This implies that besides cutting off the battle bow and extending Messiah's "from sea even to sea" (Zec.9:10), God would also deliver Israel from her exile in foreign nations.

By the blood of thy covenant . . . meaning according to the covenant graciously given to them on Sinai, and approved and confirmed by the blood of sacrifices (Ex.24:7-8; Heb.9:18-20).

I have sent forth thy prisoners . . . I have delivered and released; Cyrus by his edict sent the Jews home (Ezra 1:1-4).

Out of the pit wherein is no water . . . Babylon was compared to a pit in which was no water, wherein the Jews would have perished, had not mercy from Christ Jesus visited them there.

Dungeons were often pits without water, miry at the bottom, such as Jeremiah sank in when confined (Gen.37:24; Jer. 38:6). This is just an image of the misery of what the Jewish exiles went through. BUT . . . God shows that He will deliver His people (Jew or Gentile) out of all dangers, no matter how great they may seem to be.

Christ's Coming and His Kingdom . . . Zec.9:9-11

Zechariah represents the coming of the Messiah, as extremely joyful. He brings forth the character of their King, when He entered Jerusalem in the midst the hosannas of the multitude.

But this King's Kingdom is a future Kingdom, and too, a "spiritual" Kingdom. It CANNOT be advanced by any outward force or power or carnal weapons. His Gospel shall be preached to the world (Mat.28:19-20; 24:6-14), and be received among the Gentile nations.

It is a sinful state indeed, being in bondage to sin (Ps.107:10; Pro.5:22; Isa.5:13; Lam.1:14; Jn.8:34; Acts 8:23; Rom.6:6,16,20; 7:15,19,23; 8:21; 2 Tim.2:26; 2 Pet.2:19). This bondage is likened to a pit, or dungeon, in which there is no water to quench the thirst and no comfort or peace. And my friend, we ALL are by nature prisoners in this pit (Gen.3:6; Ps.51:5; Mat.15:19; Mk.7:15; Rom.5:19; Jam.1:15; 4:1). "Do not err, my beloved brethren" (Jam.1:16).

Through the "precious Blood of Christ" (1 Pet.1:18-19), many prisoners of Satan have been set free from that horrible pit in which they would otherwise have perished, without hope or comfort. As we esteem, respect and reverence Christ Jesus, let us strive to seek that His holiness and truth may be shown in our own spirits and lifestyle.

Sinners are prisoners, but they can be prisoners of hope! Their case is sad, but it can be turned to joy! For there is hope concerning them. Christ is a Strong-hold, a strong Tower (2 Sam.22:2-3,47; Ps.18:2; 31:3; 71:3; 91:2; 144:2; Pro.18:10; Nah.1:7). ALL those who believe in Him (1 Jn.5:10-13), are safe from the fear of the wrath of God, the curse of the law, and the assaults of spiritual enemies.

It is to Him and Him alone we must turn with faith; to Him alone, we must flee, and trust in His Name alone, in all our trials and sufferings. It is here promised that the Lord would deliver His people, the Jews . . . but ALL His people (Gal.3:26-29).

This passage also seems to refer to the apostles, and the preachers of the Gospel in the early ages. God evidently was with them; and His Words from their lips pierced the hearts and consciences of those who heard them preach Jesus. They were miraculously defended in persecution, and were filled with the influences of the Holy Spirit. See the Book of Acts: . . . . . . . . . . http://www.godcannotlie.org/book_of_acts.htm

They were saved by the Good Shepherd, watching over His flock, and honored as jewels in His crown. The gifts, graces and comforts of the Holy Spirit, poured forth on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and in following times, are seen and looked forward to by the prophet.

The nation of Israel has always been hated, and the conflict of the Jews shall not cease (Zec.12:2-3), but their God will give them success (Zec.12:4-9). The more we are satisfied with the Lord's goodness, the more we shall praise our Redeemer. Whatever gifts God bestows upon us, we must serve Him cheerfully and willingly. We must agree and say with the prophet: "How great is His goodness!" (Zec.9:17).

Zechariah 9:12 Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare that I will render double unto thee; (KJV)

Turn ye to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope . . . Zechariah warns the Jews, both those still in Babylon, and those already in Canaan, to hurry to the strong hold; to Jerusalem. Under a promise from God, and an edict from Cyrus (Ezra 1:1-4), that they shall return; this gives them hope, making them prisoners of expectation.

"Stronghold" . . . is in contrast to, or the opposite of, the "pit" (Zec.9:11); which is a place cut off from access. Some think "strong hold" is "high places" (Ps. 18:33). "Strong hold" could be a symbol of security which the returning Jews shall have in Messiah (Zec.9:8) encamped about His people (Ps.46:1,5; Isa.49:9-11; Pro.18:10).

"Prisoners of hope" . . . who in spite of afflictions (Job 13:15-16; Ps.42:5,11) keep their hope in the covenant-keeping God. This is in direct contrast to unbelievers, who say, "There is no hope" (Jer.2:25; 18:12). God's TRUE people believe God's Word (Jer.31:17), "there is hope in thine end," and do NOT say "our hope is lost" (Eze.37:11).

The Jews of Zechariah's time are encouraged not to be discouraged in building God's House by their trials, but instead are encouraged to look to Messiah for deliverance from their oppressors.

Even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee . . . this is said, either to the church, or to her prisoners, to encourage them to flee to Christ, and trust in Him, for He is the best "Strong Hold" and "Refuge" we can seek (Nah.1:7; 2 Sam.22:2-4; Ps.9:9-10; 18:2-3; 31:3; 46:1,7,11; 57:1; 71:3-4; 91:2,9; 144:2; Pro.14:26-27; Jer.16:19). "Even today" . . . when circumstances seem impossible; in contrast with the "day of the Lord," when Zion's King shall come to deliver her (Zec.9:9). "I will render double" . . . as great as has been their adversity, "they shall possess the double" (Isa. 61:7), for "everlasting joy shall be unto them."

Zechariah 9:13 When I have bent Judah for me, filled the bow with Ephraim, and raised up thy sons, O Zion, against thy sons, O Greece, and made thee as the sword of a mighty man. (KJV)

When I have bent Judah for me . . . The Jews would be the conquerors of all nations, even though they were then, and now, despised. The Jews, as we know, were and are hated by all those around them. Zechariah says that the Jews would be the bow and arrows of God, so that they would be able to pierce all nations with their arrow; and that they would also be like a sword, which would wound and lay prostrate the strongest.

Even though the Jews were filled with terror on seeing themselves surrounded on every side by violent and strong enemies, to whom they were in no way equal in strength. The meaning seems to be, the Jews would be the conquerors of all nations, NOT by their own power, but because the Lord would guide and direct them by His own Hand. For what is a bow . . . unless it is bent? And the bow itself is utterly useless, except an arrow be discharged from it. I think what Zechariah is saying is, that the Jews could do nothing of themselves, but with God on their side, they shall be victorious.

ALL Nations Shall Gather Against Jerusalem

Zechariah 12:2-3 Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and against Jerusalem. 3 And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it. (KJV) . . . God Himself bends the bow. It cannot ready itself. "And filled the bow with Ephraim." The bow is "filled," when the arrow is laid upon it. God would use both Judah and Ephraim as one. "And raised up thy sons, O Zion, against thy sons, O Greece." This took place after the time of Alexander the Great, when the Maccabees rebelled against the Seleucids (175-163 B.C.).
For more on Judah: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/8954-judah
For more on Ephraim: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/5793-ephraim

Zechariah 9:14 And the LORD shall be seen over them, and his arrow shall go forth as the lightning: and the Lord GOD shall blow the trumpet, and shall go with whirlwinds of the south. (KJV)

And the Lord shall be seen over them . . . the Lord, the Almighty God, the God of Israel, the Lord of Hosts, shall be seen over them; appearing for them by His works of power against their enemies.

And his arrow shall go forth as the lightning . . . His arrow, referring to warriors, that shall be used in the bow: God's judgments, which slew His people's enemies, were swift and sudden in striking and killing them.

And the Lord God shall blow the trumpet . . . sounding the alarm to them to get ready for the war.

And shall go with whirlwinds of the south . . . as being the most vehement and destructive. So Isaiah, "As whirlwinds in the south pass through; so it cometh from the desert, from a terrible land" (Isa.21:1-3). Such a great wind "smote the four corners of the house" where Job's children were, and they perished (Job 1:19).

Zechariah 9:15 The LORD of hosts shall defend them; and they shall devour, and subdue with sling stones; and they shall drink, and make a noise as through wine; and they shall be filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar. (KJV)

The Lord of hosts shall defend them . . . defend His people against all their enemies, against Satan, and his temptations, and all the opposition made by him. In the most dangerous attempts the Jews, under their captains in the wars against the Grecians, were preserved according to this Promise.

And they shall devour . . . a few of the Jews destroy many of their enemies. As for a more modern victory, see: http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2011/06/06/remembering_six_days_in_1967

Subdue with sling stones . . .this seems to refer to the slaughter of Goliath with a sling, by young David, so small and weak compared to Goliath, BUT in the Hand of the Almighty God, David did mighty things. They shall "subdue with sling stones" (Judg.20:16), that is, conquer the Grecians.

They shall drink . . . in their festivals, when they offered sacrifices of thanksgiving for their victories.

And make a noise as through wine . . . with shouts of triumph, make a great noise, as through wine; as men do whose hearts are glad with success, and cheered with wine.

And they shall be filled like bowls . . . they having their souls filled with good things and victory.

Zechariah 9:16 And the LORD their God shall save them in that day as the flock of his people: for they shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land. (KJV)

And the Lord their God shall save them in that day . . . not only as Lord of hosts by His power, but as their God in mercy and faithfulness, He shall save them, and He shall deliver them.

As the flock of His people . . . they were His special people, by choice, by covenant grace and by redemption. And they, like a flock of sheep, harmless, meek, weak and timid . . . and always prone to go astray.

For they shall be as the stones of a crown . . . the members of that flock are precious to the Lord, as the stones in a royal crown.

Lifted up as an ensign upon his land . . . the land of Judea, as trophies of victorious grace.

"Save them" . . . as the flock of His people (Ps.77:20). Here the image of war and bloodshed (Zec.9:15) is exchanged for the shepherd and flock, as God will give not only give victory, but afterwards safe and lasting peace. In contrast to the worthless sling-stones trodden under foot, they stand as gems, "stones of the crown lifted up as an ensign," (Isa.62:3; Mal.3:17).

Zechariah 9:17 For how great is his goodness, and how great is his beauty! corn shall make the young men cheerful, and new wine the maids. (KJV)

For how great is his goodness . . . it is the Lord's INFINITE goodness, the fountain of all the good done for this people.

And how great is his beauty! . . . the wonder of Almighty God's Divine Providence and all the unspeakable effects of it in Israel's deliverance and salvation . . . and ours too! The goodness and beauty of God: (1 Chron.16:29; Ps.16:11; 27:4; 29:2; 31:19; 45:2,11; 73:1,24-26; 90:17; 110;3; 145:7-9; Isa.33:17; 35:10; 52:7; 64:4; Jer.31:12; Lam.3:23-25; Eze.16:14; Zec.9:17; 1 Cor.2:9; Col.3:2-4; Jam.2:5; 1 Pet.1:4-5; 1 Jn.3:1-2).

Corn shall make the young men cheerful . . . promised abundant harvests shall make the young men cheerful in sowing, reaping and laboring in harvest work, as well as in eating the bounty thereof. "Young men" . . . I think are like those in (1 Jn.2:14).

And new wine the maids . . . such abundance of wine, that all, young and old, shall be cheered with it. This "new wine" could be interpreted as the gifts and graces bestowed in great plenty on the day of Pentecost, both on sons and daughters, on servants and handmaids, whereby they prophesied, and saw visions (Acts 2:15-21; Eph.5:18-20).

These are just the sweet fruits of temporal salvation, but the fruits of eternal spiritual salvation are made dim by these temporal, because they are much more glorious, refreshing and worthy of our praise and thankfulness.

Book of Zachariah

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