Zechariah 9—10: The Coming of the King
DIFFICULT TIMES DO not last forever, nor do those who oppress us always have the upper hand. Israel had been defeated and humiliated by her enemies. However, in Zechariah 9—10 the Lord promises to conquer those who had conquered Israel and to restore peace to those troubled by war. But the high point of this passage looks beyond Israel's immediate future to the coming of the messianic King.
Warming Up to God
When you are in the midst of difficult times or have experienced defeat, how do the Lord's presence and promises give you hope?
Read Zechariah 9—10. »
Discovering the Word
- In 9:1-8 Zechariah describes the defeat of Israel's enemies, beginning in the north and ending in the south—a prediction fulfilled by Alexander the Great. How does it encourage you to know that the Lord punishes evil?
- Why will the coming of the great King cause people to shout for joy (9:9-10)?
- Before the Messiah can establish peace, he must assume the role of the Divine Warrior (9:11-17). How does Zechariah describe the Lord's battles?
- Why will the Lord punish the shepherds of Israel and become their true Shepherd (10:1-4)?
- Because the Lord is with his people and cares for them, what future blessings can they expect (10:5-12)?
Applying the Word
- The prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 was fulfilled during Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (see Mt 21:1-11). What is it about Christ's kingship that attracts you most?
- How does it encourage you to know that the Messiah's reign will one day extend "to the ends of the earth" (9:10)?
- How far does his reign extend in your life today? Explain.
Responding in Prayer
Ask the One who is Lord of all to extend his lordship to every area of your life. Thank him for his great promises and his infinite care.
For Further Study
The Message of Zechariah by Barry G. Webb