Zechariah 9: The Coming Messiah Foretold

Read Zechariah chapter 9

Introduction: The book of Zechariah is a  book of hope and encouragement to the people of Israel who had returned from exile in Babylon. Zechariah 9 is a chapter that focuses on the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of His kingdom. The chapter is divided into two main sections: the judgment of the nations and the coming of the King, which is referring to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. This reference to Jesus is the prophecy of his first appearance on earth, coming as the savior of the world. It points out that he will bring salvation and peace to the hearts of the believers, he will be riding a donkey. The last part of this chapter points to his mission as the suffering savior.

I. Judgment of the Nations (Zechariah 9:1-8)
In this section, the prophet Zechariah pronounces judgment on the nations surrounding Israel, including Hadrach, Damascus, Tyre, and Sidon. The Lord’s judgment will come upon them because of their pride and idolatry.

II. The Coming of the King (Zechariah 9:9-17)
This section speaks of the coming of the Messiah, who will be a king of peace and righteousness. The Messiah will bring salvation to His people and establish His kingdom.

Verse by verse outline section:
I. Judgment of the Nations (Zechariah 9:1-8)

• Zechariah 9:1-2: The Lord’s judgment is pronounced on Hadrach and Damascus, cities that were known for their idolatry (Isaiah 17:1-3).
• Zechariah 9:3-4: Tyre and Sidon, cities known for their wealth and pride, will also be judged by the Lord (Ezekiel 26:3-5).
• Zechariah 9:5-6: The Philistine cities of Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and Ashdod will be destroyed because of their violence and oppression (Amos 1:6-8).
• Zechariah 9:7-8: The Lord will protect His people from their enemies and establish His rule over them.

II. The Coming of the King (Zechariah 9:9-17)

• Zechariah 9:9: The coming of the Messiah is foretold, who will be a humble king riding on a donkey (Matthew 21:5).
• Zechariah 9:10-11: The Messiah will bring peace and salvation to His people, and He will establish His kingdom (Isaiah 9:6-7).
• Zechariah 9:12-13: The Lord will strengthen His people and make them victorious over their enemies (Psalm 18:35).
• Zechariah 9:14-15: The Lord will fight for His people and bring them victory (Exodus 14:14).
• Zechariah 9:16-17: The Lord will bless His people and make them a blessing to the nations (Genesis 12:2-3).

Conclusion: Zechariah 9 is a chapter that speaks of the judgment of the nations and the coming of the Messiah. The Lord will judge the nations for their pride and idolatry, but He will also bring salvation and peace to His people through the Messiah. The Messiah will establish His kingdom and rule over the nations with righteousness and justice. This chapter is a message of hope and encouragement to the people of Israel, reminding them that the Lord is with them and will bring them victory over their enemies.