Introduction: The book of Zechariah is a prophetic book that speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem, the coming of the Messiah, and the wicked shepherds of Israel. In Zechariah 12, the prophet outlines a series of events that will take place in the end times, including the siege of Jerusalem, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the mourning for the one who was pierced. This chapter is a magnificent reminder of God’s sovereignty and his plan for the redemption of his people, of which you and I that believe have been blessed by in our lives in year 2024.
I. The Siege of Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:1-3)
The chapter begins with a declaration of the Lord’s power and authority over all creation. He is the one who laid the foundation of the earth and formed the spirit of man within him. The focus then shifts to the city of Jerusalem, which will become a cup of trembling to all the surrounding nations. The Lord will make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people, and those who try to lift it will be cut in pieces. This prophecy is also mentioned in Psalm 2:6, which speaks of the Lord’s anointed king ruling from Zion. It is also brings to mind Isaiah 29:7, which describes the siege of Jerusalem as a dream that vanishes.
II. The Deliverance of Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:4-9)
In these verses, the Lord promises to defend Jerusalem against its enemies. He will strike every horse with panic and every rider with madness. The governors of Judah will be like a firepot among wood and a torch of fire in a sheaf, consuming all the surrounding nations. The Lord will save the tents of Judah first, so that the glory of the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem may not be exalted above Judah. This promise of deliverance is similar to Isaiah 31:5, which speaks of the Lord protecting Jerusalem like birds hovering overhead.
III. The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 12:10-14)
The Lord will pour out a spirit of grace and supplication on the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and they will look on the one whom they have pierced. They will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child and weep bitterly for him as one weeps for a firstborn. The mourning will be great in Jerusalem, and each family will mourn separately. This prophecy is fulfilled in John 19:37, which quotes Zechariah 12:10 after the crucifixion of Jesus. It is also referenced in Revelation 1:7, which speaks of Jesus coming with the clouds and every eye seeing him, including those who pierced him.
Conclusion: Zechariah 12 is a powerful chapter that speaks of the trials and triumphs that await Jerusalem in the end times. The Lord’s sovereignty and power are evident throughout the chapter, as he promises to defend and deliver his people. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the mourning for the one who was pierced are a clear reminder to the believers of the Lord’s grace and mercy. This chapter is a call to trust in the Lord’s plan and to look forward to the day when he will make all things new for those who have put their trust and confidence in Him while walking the pathway of life.
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