Vision of Jerusalem’s Future Glory in Zechariah 2

Read Zechariah chapter 2

Introduction: Zechariah 2 is a vision of the prophet Zechariah that describes the future glory of Jerusalem. The chapter begins with a vision of a man with a measuring line, symbolizing the restoration and expansion of Jerusalem. It continues with a message of hope for the exiles who are returning to Jerusalem and a warning to the nations that have oppressed God’s people. The chapter ends with a promise of God’s presence among His people and the invitation for all nations to join in worshiping Him. The main points of this chapter are the restoration of Jerusalem, the protection and blessing of God’s people, and the invitation for all nations to join in the worship of God.

I. The man with a measuring line (Zechariah 2:1-2)
Zechariah sees a man with a measuring line, which symbolizes the restoration and expansion of Jerusalem. This vision brings to mind the promise of Isaiah 54:2-3, which speaks of the future enlargement of the city. The man’s intention to measure Jerusalem shows that God has not forgotten His promise to restore the city and make it a place of blessing.

II. The promise of protection and blessing (Zechariah 2:3-5)
An angel declares that Jerusalem will be a city without walls because of the multitude of people and animals. This is a sign of God’s blessing and protection, as He Himself will be a wall of fire around the city. This picture reminds us of the promise in Isaiah 26:1, which speaks of a strong city with walls of salvation. The promise of God’s presence among His people is also echoed in Revelation 21:3, where God declares that He will dwell with His people in the New Jerusalem.

III. The call for the exiles to return (Zechariah 2:6-9)
The prophet calls for the exiles to return to Jerusalem, as God is going to punish the nations that have oppressed His people. This echoes the promise in Isaiah 48:20, which calls for the exiles to flee from Babylon and return to their homeland. The promise of God’s judgment on the nations also aligns with the prophecy in Jeremiah 30:16, which declares that those who have oppressed Israel will be punished.

IV. The invitation to all nations (Zechariah 2:10-13)
The chapter ends with an invitation for all nations to join in the worship of God. This is a fulfillment of the promise in Isaiah 2:2-4, which speaks of the nations streaming to Jerusalem to learn God’s ways. The promise of God’s presence among His people is also seen in Revelation 21:24, where the nations will walk by the light of the New Jerusalem and bring their glory into it.

Conclusion: Zechariah 2 presents a hopeful vision of the future restoration and glory of Jerusalem. The chapter emphasizes God’s promise of protection and blessing for His people, the call for the exiles to return, and the invitation for all nations to join in worshiping God. The chapter serves as a reminder that God has not forgotten His promises and that He will fulfill them in His time. The restoration of Jerusalem, the protection and blessing of God’s people, and the invitation for all nations to join in worshiping God are the main themes of this chapter, which continue to encourage, give hope and build faith in the hearts of believers today.