Zec 12 | MHCC | e4.org | 1-8 Here is a Divine prediction, which will be a heavy burden to all the enemies of the church. But it is for Israel; for their comfort and benefit. It is promised that God will make foolish the counsels, and weaken the courage of the enemies of the church. The exact meaning is not clear; but God often begins by calling the poor and despised; and in that day even the feeblest will resemble David, and be as eminent in courage and every thing good. Desirable indeed is it that the examples and labours of Christians should render them as fire among wood, as a torch in a sheaf, to kindle the flame of Divine love, to spread religion on the right hand and on the left.

‏ Zechariah 12

* Punishment of the enemies of Judah. (1-8) Repentance and

sorrow of the Jews. (9-14)

1-8 Here is a Divine prediction, which will be a heavy burden

to all the enemies of the church. But it is for Israel; for

their comfort and benefit. It is promised that God will make

foolish the counsels, and weaken the courage of the enemies of

the church. The exact meaning is not clear; but God often begins

by calling the poor and despised; and in that day even the

feeblest will resemble David, and be as eminent in courage and

every thing good. Desirable indeed is it that the examples and

labours of Christians should render them as fire among wood, as

a torch in a sheaf, to kindle the flame of Divine love, to

spread religion on the right hand and on the left. 9-14 The day here spoken of, is the day of Jerusalem's defence

and deliverance, that glorious day when God will appear for the

salvation of his people. In Christ's first coming he bruised the

serpent's head, and broke all the powers of darkness that fought

against God's kingdom among men. In his second coming he will

complete their destruction, when he shall put down all opposing

rule, principality, and power; and death itself shall be

swallowed up in that victory. The Holy Spirit is gracious and

merciful, and is the Author of all grace or holiness. He, also,

is the Spirit of supplications, and shows men their ignorance,

want, guilt, misery, and danger. At the time here foretold, the

Jews will know who the crucified Jesus was; then they shall look

by faith to him, and mourn with the deepest sorrow, not only in

public, but in private, even each one separately. There is a

holy mourning, the effect of the pouring out of the Spirit; a

mourning for sin, which quickens faith in Christ, and qualifies

for joy in God. This mourning is a fruit of the Spirit of grace,

a proof of a work of grace in the soul, and of the Spirit of

supplications. It is fulfilled in all who sorrow for sin after a

godly sort; they look to Christ crucified, and mourn for him.

Looking by faith upon the cross of Christ will cause us to mourn

for sin after a godly sort.