Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Zechariah 8:20
Thus saith the LORD of hosts; [It shall] yet [come to pass], that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities:
20. people ] Lit. peoples. Here probably the tribes of Israel (comp. Deu 33:3; Deu 33:19, where the word is used in that sense). In Zec 8:22, many peoples, refers to foreign nations, to whom the prophecy extends itself in that and the following verses.
Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
20 23. The joyful change shall extend, in its influence, to the heathen nations of the world. Comp. Isa 2:2-3; Mic 4:1-2.
Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
It shall yet be that – The promises are those which God had already made by Isaiah (Isa 2:2 ff) and Micah (Mic 4:1 ff). Yet where was the show of their fulfillment? The Jews themselves, a handful: the temple unfinished; its completion depending, in human sight, upon the will of their pagan masters, the rival worship at Samaria standing and inviting to coalition. Appearances and experience were against it. God says virtually, that it was, in human sight, contrary to all expectations. But weakness is aye Heavens might. Despite of all, of the fewness of those who were returned, their downheartedness, broken condition, hopelessness, though all had hitherto failed, though, or rather because, all human energy and strength were gone, as God had said before, The Lord shall yet (Zec 1:17; Zec 2:1-13 :16 (12 English)) choose Jerusalem, so now, It shall yet be that.
Nations and many cities shall come – He describes vividly the eagerness and mutual impulse, with which not only many but mighty nations should throng to the Gospel, and every fresh conversion should win others also, until the great tide should sweep through the world.
Fuente: Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
Zec 8:20-22
Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord
Nations meeting for prayer
A scene like this has never yet been witnessed upon the earth.
The prophecy was partially fulfilled when, from the time of the rebuilding of the temple to the coming of the Saviour, a more than usual number of Gentile proselytes from the nations around sought admission into the Jewish Church, and attended the annual festivals.
I. The object of this gathering of the nations. To pray. The time is coming when the nations will crowd to the feast of devotion. The result of the awakening of the nations will be a universal movement for concentrated prayer.
II. The universality of this gathering of the nations for prayer. They are described as many cities, strong nations, and all languages. Isaiah, wrapt in the vision of the future, beholds all the tribes of mankind, instigated by one common and irresistible impulse, flocking along the road to Zion, panting to be within its holy walls, and to pour out their prayers in her courts.
III. The promptitude of their decision. This heaven-originated movement for universal prayer will be felt to be a matter demanding immediate attention. Let us go speedily. When the Spirit is poured out from on high, all the speed and promptitude with which men pursue inferior ends will be consecrated to religion. Universal man will feel it his first duty to serve God.
IV. The personal character of this movement. No mighty movement takes place among masses of mankind until individuals have been moved. The world is but the aggregate of single individuals. Every individual must act his part. If men smother the enkindled fires of ardent devotion in their own breasts, till they see the zeal of others manifested, that day of prayer for all nations will never dawn. Every man is to invite to prayer, and at the same time resolve for himself. Then seek to be distinguished as a devotional Christian–a man of prayer. Then you will seek the society of men like-minded with yourself, and thus the holy flame will be borne onward, till every soul is enkindled, the Church revived, and the world saved. (Evangelical Preacher.)
God everywhere for those who seek Him
1. We are here reminded of our high and distinguishing privileges, as subjects of the Christian economy, in relation to the outward institutions of religion, and all that is commanded in the worship and service of God. When we would offer our devotions in His presence, we need no longer travel from one city to another, ascending to the house of the Lord. Wherever we seek Him, He is equally near, and equally accessible. Great and important purposes were once attained by the selection of a definite abode, wherein to place the sensible demonstrations of His majesty. It was in accordance with the infantile condition of the human mind on the great subject of religion. It repressed the tendency to mingle with the idol worship of the surrounding nations. It secured the permanency of the ordinances of the true God, till the coming of Messiah. By the final cessation of such services, soon after the death of Jesus, it marked that the Messiah had appeared, that the fulness of the times had been accomplished.
2. We are led to reflect upon that singular and elevated relation we now personally sustain to Him who was once known and worshipped only under the appellation of the God of Abraham. We have come to the family and household of the saints. This incorporation of the idolatrous heathen with the seed of the promise–this accession of the Gentiles to the Church–while it presents a subject of gratitude and wonder, is fitted also to expand our sentiments and to confirm our faith; and it leads us to anticipate a day when the Gospel shall universally prevail.
3. An interesting and attractive picture of a period of spiritual prosperity.
(1) The period thus described is marked by the diffusion of the spirit of prayer.
(2) Under the aspect of unity and mutual cooperation.
(3) Signalised by the prevalence of activity, energy, and zeal. Let us go speedily. Let us go to seek the Lord of hosts.
(4) The last characteristic of the period so depicted is the inseparable and intimate connection of all its other features with the decisiveness of individual piety. I will go also.
4. Apply these reflections to purposes of immediate and practical utility. (R. S. MAll, LL. D.)
Spiritual prosperity described
The text is part of the answer given to the question asked in Zec 7:2-3.
1. There are many false notions abroad respecting religious prosperity–crowded Churches–forms in the aisles–full exchequer; such things are taken by some as a sure sign of a Churchs vitality. Flying here and there–doing this, that, and the other in three minutes, and making a great noise, are looked upon by some as signs of saintship, and indications of true religious prosperity. And they may be, but not necessarily so; because outward manifestation is not always a sign of true strength. But we have true signs, unmistakable signs, described in the text.
I. Delight in prayer. Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord.
1. Thus there is a gathering together. It is a regular prayer meeting, and it is in answer to united prayer that blessings come. Illustrations: Day of Pentecost. Liberation of Peter. And it is only when Churches feel the importance of this that a true revival comes.
2. Not only must we pray, hut we must seek the Lord as well–give God no rest until He answers prayer.
II. Harmony and cooperation. And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, etc. When will the different Churches of the different denominations learn the importance of united prayer? When shall we have done with our little differences and distinctions, and kneel as one family round the throne? God speed the day.
III. A spirit of zeal. Let us go speedily.
1. There will be no lagging behind. It is not, Let us have a prayer meeting tomorrow; let us turn unto the Lord soon; but, Let us do it now.
IV. Personal dedication. I will go also.
1. It is no uncommon thing for people to ask others to do what they dont like to engage in themselves. How inspiring it is to hear the exhortation, Do this, and I will do it, too You go and pray before the Lord; I will accompany you. When this spirit is actuating the members of a Church, the result will be surely seen–in the earnestness and goodwill which exist–sinners saved–church roll increasing–joy in heaven–comment of the world. Behold how good and pleasant a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. (Christian World Pulpit.)
Revival
Suggesting the benefits of a spiritual revival.
1. That the possession of religious life awakens interest in others. And the inhabitants, etc., shall go, etc.
2. That a revived religious life sets value on prayer. Let us go to pray before the Lord.
3. This revived life realises the importance and value of time. Let us go speedily.
4. Revived life constrains us to seek companionship. Let us go. Christians are gregarious.
5. Revived spiritual life ensures a powerful influence over our companions. They said, We will go with you. (J. H. Snell.)
Fuente: Biblical Illustrator Edited by Joseph S. Exell
Verse 20. There shall come people] Similar promises to those in Isa 2:3 and in Mic 4:1-2. Many Gentiles, as well as Jews, will then be found devoting themselves to the Lord.
Fuente: Adam Clarke’s Commentary and Critical Notes on the Bible
Thus saith the Lord of hosts: this solemn attestation, that it is the Lord of hosts who will do that great thing next promised, calls both for our heeding and believing of it.
It shall yet come to pass; how low soever the state of my church doth appear, and really is, yet a time shall come when it shall be more considerable.
There shall come people; that is, multitudes of people, for they shall be inhabitants of many and great cities, which is added to explain what was more obscure in that one word,
people. The Gentiles shall be added to the church, and increase her greatly.
Fuente: English Annotations on the Holy Bible by Matthew Poole
20. (Isa 2:3;Mic 4:2).
Thus saith the Lord ofhostsa preface needed to assure the Jews, now disheartened bythe perils surrounding them, and by the humble aspect of the temple.”Unlikely as what follows may seem to you, Jehovah of hosts,boundless in resources, saith it, therefore it shall be so.”Just before Christ’s coming, a feeling grew up among the heathen ofthe unsatisfactoriness of their systems of religion and philosophy;this disposed them favorably towards the religion of the Jew, so thatproselytes embraced the worship of Jehovah from various parts ofAsia; these again were predisposed to embrace Christianity when itwas preached to them (Act 2:9-12;Act 2:41). But the fullaccomplishment of the conversion of the Gentiles foretold here isreserved till “Jerusalem” (Zec8:22) becomes the center of Christianized Jewry (Rom 11:12;Rom 11:15).
Fuente: Jamieson, Fausset and Brown’s Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Thus saith the Lord of hosts, [It shall] yet [come to pass],…. This is another thing that shall certainly be accomplished:
that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities; in the Gentile world; they shall come and hear the word, believe in Christ, and join together in a Gospel church state; as they did at Antioch, Thessalonica, Corinth, and many other places: Ben Melech says this shall be in the days of the Messiah; and so it has been in the days of the true Messiah Jesus, and will be again in the latter day.
Fuente: John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
Zec 8:20. “Thus saith Jehovah of hosts: Yet will nations come, and inhabitants of many cities. Zec 8:21. And the inhabitants of one (city) will go to another, and say, ‘We will go, go away, to supplicate the face of Jehovah, and to seek Jehovah of hosts.’ ‘I will also go.’ Zec 8:22. And many peoples and strong nations will come, to seek Jehovah of hosts in Jerusalem, and to supplicate the face of Jehovah.” These verses do not announce a further or second glorification, which God has designed for His people, but simply indicate the nature and magnitude of the salvation appointed for Israel, through which its fast-days will be turned into days of joy. Hitherto Israel had kept days of mourning and fasting on account of the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple; but in the future the Lord will so glorify His city and His house, that not only will Israel keep joyful feasts there, but many and strong heathen nations will go to the house of God, to seek and worship the God of hosts. is used with emphasis, so that it resembles a sentence: “It will still come to pass, that,” etc. This is how in Zec 8:21 and Zec 8:23 is to be taken, and not as the introduction to the saying preceded energetically by , for which Hitzig is wrong in referring to Mic 6:10. For the fact itself, compare Mic 4:1., Isa 2:2., Jer 16:19. In Zec 8:21 the thought is individualized. The inhabitants of one city call upon those of another. , “we will go to supplicate,” etc.; and the population of the other city responds to the summons by saying, “I also will go.” , as in Zec 7:2.
Fuente: Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament
The Future Of Jerusalem
Verses 20-23:
Jerusalem—Future Center Religious Center Of The Earth
Verse 20 prophesies that they shall come, gather of their own accord, because they want to come, people (even heathen or Gentiles) and inhabitants of many cities, up to the house of the Lord, to Zion, in Jerusalem, Isa 2:3: Mic 4:2. The main import of this prophecy alludes to the future. at the coming of our Lord, Rom 9:12; Rom 9:15.
Verse 21 foretells that the inhabitants of one city shall call upon those of another city to join them in hastily going up to the house of the Lord, to pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord of host’s favor. Zechariah then adds, “I will also go,” manifesting love and care for others, Son 1:4. This implies individual earnestness in’ witnessing faith in the Lord, Act 1:8; Psa 107:2.
Verse 22 adds that many people and strong nations shall voluntarily come up to Jerusalem, in that day, to seek the good will of the Lord of hosts, as further foretold and assured, Jer 4:2; Mic 4:1; Hag 2:7; Gal 3:8; Rev 15:4. This contrasts with the few of the remnant of Jews that were then being motivated to rebuild for God.
Verse 23 prophesies that in the day of the golden reign of Jesus Christ, ten men (representing Gentile governments in disarray) shall take hold of him that is a Jew, to follow him, saying, pledging, “we will (desire) to go with you (up to Zion) for we have heard that God is with you all,” Lev 26:26; Num 14:22; Isa 66:18; Rev 7:9, To take hold of ones skirt is to entreat or appeal for mercy or help from one who is superior, Isa 3:6; Isa 4:1; Num 15:38; Deu 22:12. That real one is Jesus Christ, Act 4:12.
Fuente: Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary
The Prophet here extends his discourse still farther; for he promises not only the complete restoration of his chosen people, but also the propagation of the Church; for God, he says, will gather a Church for himself from many and remote nations, and unite many nations in one body. And this ought to have availed especially to animate the Jews, as they were thus taught that the temple was built, not only that God might be worshipped by one nation, but by all nations. Moreover, as before this time some had come from distant lands to worship God, the Prophet may seem here to have this in view by using עוד, oud, the adverb of time. (91) But he not only declares that some would come, as in the time of Solomon, but as I have already said, he promises here something more remarkable — that the temple would not belong peculiarly to the Jews, but would be common to all nations; for there is to be no language and no nation which is not to unite in the true worship of God. But let us consider the words of the Prophet.
He begins by saying, that God was the author of this prophecy; and this was said to secure credit. There was need, as we have said, of no common authority, since he was here speaking of what was incredible. There was only a handful of people returned to their country, and many dangers surrounded them almost every day; so that many, wearied with their present condition, preferred exile, and regret for their return had now crept into the minds of many, for they thought that they had been deceived. Since then the state of the people was such, there was need of something more than ordinary to confirm what is here said — that the glory of the second temple would be greater and more eminent than that of the first: It shall yet be, he says. Though a comparison is implied, there is yet no equality expressed, as though some few only would come. But as there had been no temple for seventy years, and as the temple, now begun to be built, was in no high esteem, but mean and insignificant, the Prophet says, that the time would yet come, when nations and inhabitants of great cities would ascend into Jerusalem. We may indeed render רבות, rebut, many or great, for it means both; but the Prophet, I think, speaks of great cities; and the reason will presently appear.
(91) There is a difficulty in the construction here. The best solution is that of our version, followed by Grotius, Newcome, and others; there is understood the auxiliary verb, “it shall be:” so the rendering would be,
Yet it shall be that come shall people And the inhabitants of many cities.
There is a similar instance in verse 23, where the auxiliary verb is to be understood, and [ אשר ] must be rendered that. — Ed.
Fuente: Calvin’s Complete Commentary
CRITICAL NOTES.]
Zec. 8:20. Yet] Emphatic. People] shall be attracted to Gods house.
Zec. 8:21. Saying] Mutually appealing to one another. Speedily] Lit. go, going, implying intense earnestness and determination. I also] Prompt response.
Zec. 8:22. Many] in contrast to a few and weak Jews now engaged in Gods work.
Zec. 8:23. Ten] A definite for an indefinite number; denoting a great and complete multitude (Gen. 31:7; Lev. 26:26; Num. 14:22). For the figure cf. Isa. 4:1. Converts from among the Gentiles shall be as ten to one Jew. All languages] i.e. of nations of all languages. Take hold] A gesture of entreaty for help and protection (Isa. 3:6; 1Sa. 15:32). With you] An effect often produced upon unbelievers when entering the assemblies of Christians (1Co. 14:25). Primarily produced on the nations who witnessed the deliverance by Cyrus; finally, that to be produced by the future grand interposition of Messiah on behalf of his people [cf. Fausset].
HOMILETICS
THE FUTURE PROSPERITY OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH.Zec. 8:20-23
The ordinary reference of these words is to Gospel times, and, in part, to the Gospel dispensation of the future. They express the obligations to be felt and owned by the whole worldby men of every kindred, and people, and nation, and tongueto the Jews, for the knowledge, the worship, and the practice of true religion [cf. Wardlaw]. The text contains a wonderful description of future prosperity to the Church of God.
I. Multitudes will be converted to God. Many people and strong nations shall come. The few and feeble Jews shall increase into a mighty nation. Many shall come from the east and the west, from the north and the south. Bigotry says few. Modern Scribes and Pharisees say few; but God says many. Every fresh conversion shall win others, until all nations flow into Gods kingdom.
II. Multitudes will be converted to God by the instrumentality of the Jews. Ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations of the skirt of him that is a Jew.
1. Nations shall feel indebted to the Jews. Their outward polity has decayed, and they have been scattered and despised for centuries; but the world will yet own its obligation to them. Other nations have given science and art, government and laws; but to the Jews are we indebted for a knowledge of God, and the preservation of his Word. What advantage then hath the Jew? Much every way; chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God (cf. Rom. 3:2; Rom. 9:4-5).
2. Nations shall discern that God is with the Jews. For we have heard that God is with you. God has not cast off his ancient people, but still watches over them. The report of his deeds among them shall spread. They shall be gathered and honoured, and other nations will be anxious to participate in their blessings. All people shall yet testify in their favour. Their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people; all they that see them shall acknowledge them that they are the seed which the Lord hath blessed.
A CALL TO GODS HOUSE.Zec. 8:21-22
Take Jerusalem here literally or spiritually, the words may be regarded as a call to Christian worship. God has put his name in his house. It shall be attractive to all sincere believers, and in whatever place they reside they shall come to the great festivals of the future.
I. The purpose for which they come. Not to play nor pass away the time; not for any secular, but a spiritual end.
1. They go to pray before the Lord. Prayer is the language of dependence and entreaty. Men feel that nothing can satisfy but Godare led to give up every kind of idolatry and come to him, believing that he will hear prayer. Prayer is most important, and most necessary, yet meetings for united prayer are neglected. If the spirit of prayer be not with a people, there can be no life and unity.
2. They go to seek the Lord. God preeminently displays grace and glory in his house. True worshippers covet his favour, and long for his fellowship. They regard God in everything. They earnestly seek to behold his power and glory in his sanctuary (Psa. 63:2). Through the veil of ceremonies they look to the Invisible One. This is the generation of those that seek him.
II. The method in which they come. Many people and strong nations, &c.
1. In great numbers. At present the ways of Zion mourn. Few attend the house of God, and like sparrows are alone upon the house-top. As in ancient times, Jews went from village to village, gathering numbers and singing hymns as they journeyed on, until all appeared in Zion before God: so shall multitudes say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob (Isa. 2:3).
2. In great variety. The inhabitants of many cities. Country and townspeople, merchants and mechanics, masters and servants, shall come. Men out of all languages of the nationsthe Mahomedan and the Turk, the Hindoo and the Hottentot, Greek and Jew, shall yet meet together in the house of God.
III. The spirit in which they come.
1. A spirit of mutual excitement. The inhabitants of one city go to another. They do not invite those whom they accidentally meet on the way, nor do they wait for the minister and the missionary to do their work. They go to the negligentperhaps at some sacrifice and inconvenienceand stir one another up. This is needful now. Frivolous are the excuses, and unjustifiable the causes, which keep men from the house of God.
2. A spirit of personal resolve. I will go also, was the response of each when invited. Many excuse; they have no time, no clothes, and you must call again. But others are only waiting for an invitation. Let us all resolve with Nehemiah and his friends: We will not forsake the house of our God.
3. A spirit of earnestness. Let us go speedily. (a) Go with heartiness. Put heart and feeling into your work. Angels are like flaming fire in their service. We are dull and half-asleep. (b) Go withtout delay. Many delay and never go. They never begin to pray, till God has ceased to hear. Let all attend and take others to the house of Godpray that God would revive his work, and bless our souls. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.
HOMILETIC HINTS AND OUTLINES
Zec. 8:20-21. Characteristics of a genuine revival.
1. A general interest in the house of God.
2. A mutual concern for each others welfare.
3. An earnest resolve for individual duty; and
4. A great accession to the Christian Church.
The inhabitants, &c. They shall not be satisfied with their own salvation, careless about the salvation of others; they shall employ all labour and industry, with wondrous love, to provide for the salvation of others as if it were their own It is a marvellous stirring of minds [Pusey]. Learn also
1. That those who know God will seek to bring others to know him.
2. That mutual stirring up to duty is a means of increase to the Church. 3. That in this work we should not be discouraged.
(1) Sad times should not blot out remembrance of the Churchs charter and future privileges.
(2) Personal sacrifices should not tire nor dishearten us. Indifference and lukewarmness are out of place. We must be active and constant in the work. Let us go speedily.
I will go also. I. The object of the awakened sinner. To seek God. II. The means of accomplishing this object.
(1) Attendance in sanctuary.
(2) Prayer. III. The influence of example in pursuing this object. Inciting others. Individual example connected with general exhortation.
Zec. 8:23. A revived people.
1. Blessed with Gods presence.
2. Instrumental in the conversion of others.
ILLUSTRATIONS TO CHAPTER 8
Zec. 8:20-22. Pray. The gracious God is pleased to esteem it his glory to have many beggars thronging at the beautiful gate of his temple, for spiritual and corporal alms. What an honour it is to our Great Landlord that multitudes of tenants flock together to his house to pay their rent of thanks and worship for all which they hold of him! How loud and lovely is the noise of many golden trumpets! Good Lord, what an echo do they make in heavens ears! When many skilful musicians play in concert with well-tuned and prepared instruments, the music cannot but be ravishing to God himself [George Swinnock].
Zec. 8:23. Skirt. This is a simple and striking expression. We have seen a dear little infant, when he wished to engage the attention of his mother, pulling her by the clothes. When a child has been walking along with his father, and afraid that he would leave him, he not only cries but lays hold of his coat. When the cripple had been healed at the beautiful gate of the temple, he held Peter and John, and was afraid to let them go (probably dreading a return of his former misery), as much as to say, You shall not go, and if you do I will go with you, and you shall draw me after you. Just so is it here. It shows conviction, attachment, eager attention, a wishing to be among them and of them [Jay].
Fuente: The Preacher’s Complete Homiletical Commentary Edited by Joseph S. Exell
(20-23) The language of the promises contained in these verses is evidently borrowed from Mic. 4:2; Isa. 2:2-3. (Comp. Isa. 45:14-17.) According to the figurative language of the Old Testament, the nations are represented as coming up to Jerusalem with the object, doubtless, of keeping there the festivals. (Comp. Zec. 2:10-13; Zec. 14:16-19.) But we must not look for a literal fulfilment of such prophecies. The one before us seems to be virtually fulfilled, in the fact that through Jesus Christ (who was a Jew according to the flesh) the knowledge of the true God has been spread among most nations of the world. Still, in view of Romans 11, we are not without warrant in looking forward to a more glorious and perfect fulfilment of such prophecies as this in the unknown future.
Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)
Zec 8:20. It shall yet come to pass These things shall be when, or until the people shall come, &c. The until is to be connected with the things just spoken of; that is to say, “Your joy and gladness, which shall succeed your fasts, shall continue, while many people, &c.” Because the faith and conversion of the jews in the latter days, will be to the Gentiles as a resurrection from the dead. Houbigant.
Fuente: Commentary on the Holy Bible by Thomas Coke
DISCOURSE: 1250
THE CONVERSION OF THE GENTILES
Zec 8:20-23. Thus saith the Lord of Hosts, It shall yet come to pass, that there shall, come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: and the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord of Hosts: I will go also. Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of Hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the Lord. Thus saith the Lord of Hosts, In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.
IF we did not see that the generality of Christians, with the Scriptures in their hands, are yet ignorant of the plainest and most fundamental doctrines of our religion, we should wonder how the Jews, with the sacred oracles before them, could be such strangers to Gods design of bringing the Gentiles into his Church. If there were no other passage, in all the inspired volume, relating to the subject, besides that which we have now read, they would have had abundant reason to expect that glorious event.
But the prophecy before us, however fulfilled in part in the apostolic and succeeding ages, is yet to receive, at a future period, a more complete accomplishment. In unfolding its meaning, we shall be led to consider,
I.
The conversion of the Gentiles
To human appearance, it must be granted, this event is very improbable: but,
It is certain
[It is an event foretold from the earliest ages by Moses [Note: Deu 32:21. with Rom 10:19-20.] and the prophets [Note: Psa 72:8-11. Isai. 49.and 60.]; and we are confirmed in our expectation of it by Christ [Note: Luk 21:24.], and his apostles [Note: Rom 15:8-12; Rom 11:25.].]
It will, however, be sudden
[There will probably be no more prospect of its arrival, than there was of the restoration of the Jews from Babylon a little time before it took effect. A nation shall then, as it were, be born in a day [Note: Isa 66:8.]. As soon as the people hear of Christ, they shall obey him [Note: Psa 18:43-44.]. No sooner shall his standard be erected, than they shall flock to it in crowds, like doves to their windows [Note: Isa 60:2-3; Isa 60:8.]. Like persons eager for some great and unexpected good, they shall lay hold of the skirt of him, who they think can aid them in the attainment of it. Yea, so vast and sudden will be the accession of converts to the church, that the places appropriated to divine worship shall not be able to contain them, and the people of God themselves shall be filled with wonder and astonishment [Note: Isa 49:18-22.].]
It will also be universal
[All the ends of the world are given to Christ as his possession [Note: Psa 2:8.]. And in that day many and strong nations shall unite themselves to the Lord; and men shall fear him from the rising to the setting sun [Note: Mal 1:11.]. All shall know him, from the least of them even to the greatest [Note: Jer 31:34.]. All shall be righteous [Note: Isa 60:21.]: even the most ignorant countrymen shall be consecrated to the Lord [Note: Zec 14:20-21.]. None, or next to none, shall remain in an heathenish unconverted state [Note: Zec 14:21.]. The knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth, as universally as the waters cover the channel of the sea [Note: Hab 2:14.].]
Together with this assurance of the event itself, the text further sets before us,
II.
The way in which it will be manifested
Conversion, wherever it exists, uniformly produces the effects mentioned in the text:
1.
A cordial delight in Gods ordinances
[A proud pharisee will go to the temple as well, and perhaps as often, as a repenting publican: but he never can find delight in the worship of God. Prayer is a task, that he performs either from necessity, or with a view to establish a righteousness of his own. But the true convert rejoices in opportunities of approaching God both in public and in private [Note: Psa 148:14. Psa 42:1-2. 1Jn 1:3.] There will indeed be many seasons when he will find his mind lamentably indisposed for holy exercises: but, when he is in a proper frame, his joy is in God alone [Note: Rom 5:11.].
Nor will any true Christian be satisfied to serve God alone: when once he has tasted the benefits of communion with God, he will desire to bring all he can to a participation of his bliss [Note: Joh 1:41-42; Joh 1:45. Son 1:4.]. Nor will he readily be put off with vain excuses: he knows the danger of procrastination; and therefore says, Come, let us go speedily, and seek the Lord: yea, to give more efficacy to his advice, he is glad to lead the way [Note: I will go also.], and to profit others by his example, as well as by his precepts.
This will be an universally prevalent disposition in the latter day [Note: Mic 4:1-2]; and it will assuredly prevail, wherever the grace of God is received in truth.]
2.
A zealous attachment to his people
[A person truly converted to God can no longer associate with those who would turn him from the paths of righteousness [Note: 2Co 6:14-15.]. He seeks rather those who will aid him in his journey heaven-ward. He sees that God is with his people, comforting them with his presence [Note: Joh 16:21-22.], and blessing them with all spiritual blessings [Note: Eph 1:3.]. He therefore desires to cast in his lot with them [Note: Psa 16:3. Isa 44:5. with Act 2:41.]; he takes the Lords people, as it were, by the skirt, saying, I will go with you; and, with Moses, accounts it better to renounce all the vanities of the world, and to suffer affliction with the Lords people, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season [Note: Heb 11:24-26.]. In this choice, he is not instigated by fear, as the heathen were in the days of Esther [Note: Est 8:17.], but from a firm persuasion that God is with his Church, and that there is no solid happiness to be enjoyed but in connexion with it [Note: 1Co 14:25.].]
This subject affords ample matter,
1.
For reproof
[With all our profession of Christianity, the generality never once in all their lives have manifested such a disposition as is described above. We frequently say to each other, Let us go to this or that amusement; but never, Let us go speedily and seek the Lord. On the contrary, though frequently and earnestly exhorted by the ministers of God, we cannot even be persuaded to seek the Lord for ourselves. What resemblance then is there between such persons, and the Christians of the latter day? Let us know that to call ourselves Christians, while we are wholly destitute of Christian principles and Christian habits, is a fond and fatal delusion.]
2.
For encouragement
[God is with his church at this time, as well as in the days of old [Note: Mat 28:20.]: and his people can testify, that it is well with those who seek his face [Note: Ecc 8:12. with 2Ch 26:5.]. Behold, then, we say to all, as Moses to his father-in-law, We are journeying unto the place of which the Lord said, I will give it you: and it shall be, if ye go with us, yea, it shall be, that what goodness the Lord shall do unto us, the same will he do to you [Note: See Num 10:29; Num 10:32.]. Let the day then, the blessed day commence amongst us, when that prophecy shall be accomplished, The children of Israel shall come together, going, and weeping; they shall go and seek the Lord their God: they shall ask the way to Zion with their faces thitherward, saying, Come, and let us join ourselves to the Lord in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten [Note: Jer 50:4-5.].] [Note: This was written and published before the Authors attention was directed to the Jews. He has now added another Discourse on the same text, more illustrative, he trust, of its true meaning. And he leaves this as a lasting reproach to himself, for having passed over them in a passage, where, had he been duly alive to their welfare, he could not have overlooked them. Dr. Lowth has fallen into the same error.]
Fuente: Charles Simeon’s Horae Homileticae (Old and New Testaments)
DISCOURSE: 1251
THE CONNEXION BETWEEN THE CONVERSION OF THE JEWS AND GENTILES
Zec 8:20-23. Thus saith the Lord of Hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: and the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord of Hosts: I will go also. Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of Hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the Lord. Thus saith the Lord of Hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you; for we have heard that God is with you.
WHEN the conversion of the Jews is proposed as an object proper to occupy the attention, and to call forth the exertions of the Christian world, it is often regarded as a visionary scheme, which it is in vain to hope will be realized in any other way than by miracle. The attempt also is deemed premature, because it is supposed that their conversion cannot be accomplished till the great mass of the Gentile world shall have embraced the faith of Christ. But the Scriptures give us no more reason to expect a miraculous interposition in behalf of the one, than of the other. The conversion of both will be effected as in the apostolic age. Though miracles were wrought then for the confirmation of the word, neither Jews nor Gentiles were converted by miracle, but by the preaching of the word, and the mighty operation of the Holy Spirit upon their souls. So, also, will it be in the latter day; and in somewhat of a similar order too. In the apostolic age, a number of Jews were first called, and then the Gentiles. So, in the Millennial period, the awakening will commence among the Gentiles; and then shall come the conversion of the Jews; who, being turned to the faith, will be Gods instruments for the bringing-in of the whole Gentile world. This, I apprehend, is strongly intimated in the passage before us; in considering which, we shall have to state,
I.
The conversion of the Gentiles
[This is an event which shall certainly take place in Gods appointed time, and that, too, through the instrumentality of human efforts. As, in the apostolic age, the saints, on being driven from Jerusalem, went every where preaching the word [Note: Act 8:1-4.]; so, at the period we are now speaking of, all, as soon as they are themselves awakened to see and feel the excellence of religion, will exert themselves to propagate it to the utmost of their power; the inhabitants of one city going to those of another, and exhorting them without delay to seek the Lord. This has certainly never yet been accomplished: for, though it is true that great multitudes of Gentiles were converted in the apostolic age, and their union with the Christian Church may be fitly considered as a fulfilment of the prophecy which says, They should come up to worship the Lord in Jerusalem, as all Israel were wont to do three times in the year; yet nothing has ever yet taken place that has corresponded with the strong expressions in our text. There has never yet been such a conflux of Gentiles to the Christian Church as has answered to the declaration, that many people and strong nations should come unto it. Whilst we admit, therefore, that there was, in the first ages of Christianity, a partial accomplishment of this prophecy, we must affirm, that its complete fulfilment is yet future, and that it is reserved for that time which is generally designated the latter days. Then will a spirit of piety be diffused throughout the whole earth; insomuch that, from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof, the name of Jesus shall be adored [Note: Mal 1:11.], and all the nations of the earth shall worship before him [Note: Psa 72:8-11; Psa 86:9.]. Theu shall there be but one King over all the earth [Note: Zec 14:9.]; and all the kingdoms of the world be the kingdom of the Lord, and of his Christ [Note: Rev 11:15.].]
This point, the future conversion of the whole Gentile world, being generally known and admitted, I forbear to enlarge upon it; and proceed to mark, what is less known and less considered,
II.
Its connexion with, and dependence on, the conversion of the Jews
The latter part of our text, like the former, may be regarded as having had a partial accomplishment in the days of the Apostles, through whose ministry vast multitudes were converted to the faith of Christ: for, as the Apostles were Jews, and as the Gentile converts, seeing, by the miracles which they wrought, that God was with them, freely and unreservedly submitted to their word; it might be said, that, in embracing the Gospel, they took hold of the skirt of him that was a Jew. But we have already shewn that the whole prophecy relates to a future period, even to that period when all, both Jews and Gentiles, shall be united under one Head, and form one glorious Church, under the true David, the Lord Jesus Christ [Note: Hos 3:5.]. Then shall the Jews, who reaped the first-fruits among the Gentiles, be employed to gather in the whole harvest; and, to an extent that has never been seen before, shall ten men, out of all the languages of the nations, lay hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew; saying, We will go with you; for we have heard that God is with you.
To these words different interpretations have been given. Some suppose the Jew here spoken of, is the Gospel, as revealed by the Apostles, who were Jews: others understand the word as designating Christians generally, who are sometimes called Jews. Others think that Christ himself is spoken of under this name. But I understand it as relating literally to the Jewish nation; and as declaring, that the Jews shall be first converted to the faith of Christ; that their conversion shall attract the notice and admiration of the Gentiles; and that they shall be eminently instrumental in converting the whole Gentile world.
This appears,
1.
From the whole scope of the preceding context
[Can any one read the first eight verses of the chapter, and imagine for a moment that the Apostles are spoken of; or that their word is spoken of; or that Christians are spoken of, under the name of Jews? Beyond a doubt, the persons referred to are the descendants of Israel and Judah, who shall be restored to their own land, and enjoy there a state of unprecedented prosperity [Note: Cite the whole of the passages here referred to.] ]
2.
From many particular expressions throughout the context
[The House of Israel and the House of Judah are spoken of as the persons to whom the prophecy pertains, and as the persons who are to be instrumental in conveying the blessings to the Gentile world. And these are the persons who have been a curse to the world. Can this refer to the Apostles, or to the word which they have transmitted to us, or to converted Christians, in any age? Have the Apostles ever been a curse to the world, or their word a curse, or pious Christians a curse? Have they ever been any thing but a blessing? But the Jewish people have been execrated all the world over; yes, and have been the occasions of many judgments to the people amongst whom they have dwelt: and of them it is said, that they shall be a blessing [Note: ver. 13.].
Again: God says, that as He repented not, but executed upon the Jews his threatened judgments, so will he assuredly fulfil to them his promises to do them good [Note: ver. 14, 15.]. What reference can this have to the Apostles, or their word, or to the Church of Christ?
Again: He exhorts them to speak the truth, and love no false oath [Note: ver. 16, 17.]. To whom can this refer, but to the Jews who shall exist at that time?
Again: He tells them, that the Fasts instituted in remembrance of the evils which had brought upon them the Divine judgments, and of the calamities which the Chaldeans had inflicted on them, should, at the appointed season, be turned to Feasts [Note: ver. 18, 19. The two former of these, the Fast of the fifth month and of the seventh, are mentioned in chap. 7:3, 5.That of the fifth month (July) was in remembrance of the City and Temple burnt by the Chaldeans. See 2Ki 25:8-9. That of the seventh (Sept.) in memory of the murder of Gedaliah. See 2Ki 25:25. with Jer 41:17-18. That of the fourth month (June) commemorated the taking of Jerusalem. See Jer 52:6-7 : and that of the tenth (Dec.) the commencement of the siege by the Chaldean army. See Jer 52:4.]. What sense can there be in this, as applied to the
Apostles, or their word; or to the Christian Church? It can relate to none but the Jews personally; even those who shall be alive in the latter day.]
3.
From the express words of our text
[On a supposition that the great body of the Gentiles are to be converted first, and that they are to be the means of bringing in the Jews, the language of the text must be altogether changed. The Gentiles are more than a hundred times as numerous as the Jews; and if they are to be converted first, and then bring in the Jews, they must say, not as in the text, Ten men shall take hold of the skirt of one Jew; but, we ten, out of all the languages of the nations, hold out our skirts to you, a poor Jew, saying, Come with US; for ye have heard and seen that God is with us. But this were to reverse the text altogether, which represents ten Gentiles as taking hold of the skirt of one Jew.]
4.
From the passage to which the text itself evidently refers
[There can be no doubt but that the prophet had in his mind the language used by Moses to Hobab, his father-in-law, when he endeavoured to persuade him to go up to the earthly Canaan: Come thou with us, and we will do thee good: for the Lord hath spoken good concerning Israel. And it shall be, if thou go with us; yea, it shall be, that what goodness the Lord shall do unto us, the same will we do unto thee [Note: Num 10:29; Num 10:32.]. Thus, in the latter days, the Gentiles, seeing beyond a doubt that God is with his people the Jews, will be anxious to go up with them to the New Jerusalem, the city that cometh down from God out of heaven.]
5.
From the whole Scriptures of truth
[The whole Scriptures declare, with one voice, that the Jews shall be converted first, and be Gods honoured instruments for the converting of the whole Gentile world. The Prophet Micah says, The remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people as a dew from the Lord, as the showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men [Note: Mic 5:7.]. The dew and the clouds come not at mans call; but go when and where the Lord is pleased to send them: and, unconscious of the ends for which they are sent, they fertilize the ground in Gods appointed time, and diffuse life wherever they descend. So are the Jews scattered unwittingly, and unconscious of the ends for which they are sent, over the face of the whole earth, to impart, in due season, all the blessings of life and salvation to a perishing world. And to this effect does the Prophet Isaiah also speak, when of them, in their present scattered state, he says, They shall declare my glory among the Gentiles; and shall bring all their Brethren, as the Children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the House of the Lord [Note: Isa 66:19-20. with Rom 15:16.]. Whether the persons, here called their brethren, be their brethren of the ten tribes, whose place of residence is not known; or of the Gentiles, who may be called brethren by anticipation; I cannot exactly say: but this is plain; They shall declare Gods glory among the Gentiles. And speaks not the Apostle Paul also to the same purpose? He says, If the fall of them (the Jews) be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles, how much more their fulness? If the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead [Note: Rom 11:12; Rom 11:15.]? Yes, it is the admission of the Jews into the Christian Church that will be the means of awakening the attention of the whole Gentile world; who, beholding and admiring the grace of God in them, will, with holy zeal, embrace the Gospel of Christ, and fly to him with unanimity, as a cloud, and with speed, as doves to their windows [Note: Isa 60:8. with Zep 3:20 and Jer 33:9.].
Thus I think it appears, both from the Scriptures in general, and from my text in particular, that the Jews must be converted first, before the great body of the Gentiles be gathered in; and that they are ordained of God to be his honoured instruments for the conversion of the whole world.
As for the notion of some Commentators, that Christ is the Jew, on whose skirt the Gentiles shall lay hold, it really is so foreign to the whole context, that it does not deserve a moments consideration. The Jews themselves are far nearer to the true interpretation than such expositors as these. The Jews adduce this passage, to prove, that, instead of their ever embracing Christianity, the Christian world are to become Jews; since it is said, that the whole world shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you; for we have heard that God is with you. The Jews, I say, are so far right in this interpretation, that they are the persons designated in the text: only the passage must be understood of Jews who have embraced their Messiah, and not of Jews who continue to reject him. With this only proviso, the Jews are right: and we Christians should exert ourselves to the utmost, to prepare them for the work they are destined to perform.]
Learn, then, from hence,
1.
The great importance of the Jewish cause
[By the Jewish cause, I mean the endeavours which are now making for the conversion of the Jews. It is a lamentable fact, that the Christian world has never yet, since the time of the Apostles, paid to it the attention it deserves. The situation of the Gentile world has not been overlooked; but that of the Jews has been altogether forgotten, except in one or two instances, where partial exertions have been made for their welfare. But why should they be thus excepted, and be the only people upon earth that are to be cut off from the flow of Christian benevolence? Are not their souls of as much value as the souls of others? Is it a small matter that six or eight millions of souls should be daily and hourly going down into perdition; and be left, in all their successive generations, to perish for lack of knowledge? But consider them as beloved of God; as no doubt they still are, notwithstanding all that they are suffering at his hands; consider them, I say, as beloved of God; and will you think it right that they should be despised by us?
But come more closely to the point: view them as Gods instruments for the conversion of the world; and then say, whether we should not seek to bring them to the knowledge of the truth? Verily, if we have no regard but for the Gentiles, we ought, even for their sakes, to express love to the Jews, and to labour, to the utmost of our power, to fit them for their destined work: yea, the greater our concern for the Gentiles, the more earnest should be our efforts for the Jews. Permit me then, if it be only for the Gentiles sake, to urge upon you an attention to the Jews; and henceforth to labour for them, as their ancestors in the apostolic age laboured and endured for you The husbandman, when his corn is ripe, looks out for reapers. Do ye the same now. The Gentile field is ripening apace: the Jews are Gods appointed reapers. Engage them, then, without delay, that the harvest may be gathered throughout all the earth.]
2.
The duty of Christians in all ages
[You have seen the religion which will characterize that blessed period to which we are looking forward. There will be a delight in worshipping and serving God: there will be zealous exertions, too, in all, to stir up one another to a holy emulation in this good work. None will be satisfied with going to heaven alone, or serving God alone. All will be anxious for the good of all: all will be active, too, in honouring their God, and in promoting the interests of the Redeemers kingdom. The people of one city will go to another city, to exhort and urge them to an active concurrence in every good work. Methinks the means, which are now used on so contracted a scale that a few only embark in this service of love, will then be adopted on the largest scale; and whole societies, or rather whole cities, shall unite to provoke one another unto love and to good works.
Yet, let me say, I would not have any to imagine that a zeal either for Jews or Gentiles will stand in the place of personal religion. If we commend to any the blessed word of God, or the embracing of our holy religion, let us take care to lead the way, in the study of the one, and in the practice of the other. Let us never say to any, Come, without adding at the same time, I will go also. Yea, and let us so lead the way, as the Jew will do at the period before referred to: let us so walk before others, that they may see, and be constrained to acknowledge, that God is with us of a truth. Let us be living epistles of Christ, known and read of all men; so that others may lay hold of our skirt, and wish to go with us, and have their portion with us, in the realms of bliss. Let us be as lights shining in a dark world; and so make our light to shine before men, that they, seeing our good works, may glorify our Father which is in heaven. This is our duty, no less than it will be of those who shall live in the latter day. Our religion must be neither wholly personal, nor wholly official; but a just combination of both: and, whilst we are labouring to the uttermost to save ourselves, we must use all diligence to save every other person who can by any means be brought within the sphere of our influence.]
Fuente: Charles Simeon’s Horae Homileticae (Old and New Testaments)
Thus saith the Lord of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people and the inhabitants of many cities: 21 And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord of hosts: I will go also. 22 Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the Lord. 23 Thus saith the Lord of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.
There never was a period, but in the days of the Lord Jesus Christ, when those events took place. But during our Lord’s continuance in the flesh, we find numberless instances of many, who like the Greeks which came up to the feast, desired to see Jesus. Joh 12:20-21 . And immediately after the descent of the Holy Ghost, how general then the enquiry. But, I cannot but think, that what is said in the last verse of this Chapter, yet remains to be fulfilled. And I as humbly conceive, that the call and conversion of God’s ancient people the Jews, will be, as is here said, brought about by a wonderful power in one and the same time. Reader! do observe, that the great event here spoken of, and promised, is to be out of all languages of the nations. Now it is more than probable, that the dispersed of Israel are among nations with whom the natives of Europe have no knowledge or communion. And how then by human means, as instruments in the Lord’s hands, will the gospel be conveyed to them? Besides, the promise is, that the Lord will set his hand again the second time, to recover the remnant of his people. What is meant by the second time, but in allusion to Egypt as the first wonderful deliverance the Lord wrought, in a public, open display of his sovereign power. See Isa 11:11 with Isa 19:18 to the end. While therefore it becomes a duty, and a privilege, in the instance of all that love the prosperity of Zion, to adopt every proper means, as instruments in the Lord’s hands, for calling home our elder brother, the Jews, to the knowledge and enjoyment of the Lord Jesus Christ, and his salvation; it should seem very clear, that the Lord himself will accomplish this great work before the latter day glory, by stirring up in the minds of his redeemed the awakening cry here expressed, by the sweet influences of His Holy Spirit. For if out of all the languages of the nations, ten men shall thus express themselves, certain it is, that none but the Lord himself can bring such a wonderful event to pass in one and the same hour. Lord! I would say, hasten the blessed promise, and in thine own good time do good unto Zion; build thou the walls of Jerusalem! Psa 51:18 :
Fuente: Hawker’s Poor Man’s Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
Zec 8:20 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; [It shall] yet [come to pass], that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities:
Ver. 20. It shall yet come to pass that there shall come people ] The prophet cannot shut up with the former corollary; but further comforts the Jews with a promise of the conversion and conflux of the Gentiles to the Church; yea, Christ’s people shall be willing in the day of his power, Psa 110:3 ; they are like the isles that wait for his law, Isa 42:4 ; they are set upon it to come for an offering to the Lord upon horses, in chariots, and in litters, Isa 66:20 , to make any shift rather than not come, in litters rather than not at all. The kingdom of heaven shall suffer violence, and the violent take it by force, Mat 11:12 .
Fuente: John Trapp’s Complete Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: Zec 8:20-23
20Thus says the LORD of hosts, It will yet be that peoples will come, even the inhabitants of many cities. 21The inhabitants of one will go to another, saying, Let us go at once to entreat the favor of the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts; I will also go. 22So many peoples and mighty nations will come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to entreat the favor of the LORD.’ 23Thus says the LORD of hosts, In those days ten men from all the nations will grasp the garment of a Jew, saying, Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’
Zec 8:20-21 As some came (possibly from Bethel (cf. Zec 7:2) to seek the favor of the Lord, so now other cities of Judah come to Jerusalem and the new temple to seek YHWH’s blessing.
Zec 8:21 to seek the LORD There are two parallel phrases:
1. to entreat the favor of – Piel INFINITIVE CONSTRUCT, BDB 318 II, KB 316
2. to seek – Piel INFINITIVE CONSTRUCT, BDB 134, KB 152
This is an idiom for worship (cf. Isa 51:1; Jer 50:4; Hos 3:5; Hos 5:6) which usually refers to Jews, but here to Gentiles.
I will also go This is an emphatic statement of intent (two COHORTATIVE forms of go, cf. Zec 8:23). There is an urgency to Zec 8:21.
Zec 8:22 So many peoples and mighty nations will come The Hebrew ADJECTIVE mighty (BDB 783) can mean numerous (cf. Psa 35:18; Pro 7:26; Isa 53:12; Amo 5:12). If so, then many peoples is parallel to numerous nations.
As other Jews come so now the initial purpose of God is fulfilled when many peoples and mighty nations come to Him. This universal aspect in Zechariah (cf. Zec 2:11) is surprising in light of (1) Zec 1:15; Zec 1:21; (2) the racial tone of Haggai; and (3) the problems faced by Nehemiah (cf. Neh 4:6). Zechariah is looking beyond the immediate (cf. Isa 2:2-4; Isa 56:7; Isa 66:18-24; Mic 4:1-3). He is looking to the days of the wounded shepherd (cf. Zechariah, cahpters 12-13)!
Zec 8:23
NASBwill grasp the garment of a Jew
NKJVwill grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man
NRSVshall take hold of a Jew, grasping his garment
TEVcome to one Jew
NJBwill take a Jew by the sleeve
JPSOAthey will take hold of every Jew by a corner of his cloak
PESHITTAshall take hold of the skirt of a Jew
NIVwill take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe
The Hebrew VERB take hold (BDB 304, KB 302) in the Hiphil form is repeated twice (first IMPERFECT then PERFECT) for emphasis and urgency (see use in 1Ki 1:50; 1Ki 2:28; 2Ki 4:27; Pro 26:17; Isa 4:1).
The intended purpose of the call of Abraham (cf. Gen 12:3) is to be realized!
The confusion (many languages) of the tower of Babel has now been overcome. Pentecost is the reversal of Genesis 10-11 as these people from many lands heard the gospel in their own language. This verse is a prophetic glimpse.
we have heard that God is with you God’s presence is the greatest blessing (cf. Isa 7:14; Isa 8:8; Isa 8:10; Isa 45:14) and the goal of creation (cf. Gen 1:26-27; Gen 3:8-9). The barrier (cf. Gen 3:10-21) between God and mankind is removed.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. Why is there a lapse of time between Zec 1:1 and Zec 7:1?
2. Who does Zec 7:2 refer to?
3. Why was God so upset with their religious fasts?
4. What is the ultimate purpose of Israel?
5. Why is Zec 8:20-23 so surprising, yet so important?
Fuente: You Can Understand the Bible: Study Guide Commentary Series by Bob Utley
people = peoples. Some codices, with Septuagint, read “many peoples”.
Fuente: Companion Bible Notes, Appendices and Graphics
there: Zec 2:11, Zec 14:16, Zec 14:17, 1Ki 8:41, 1Ki 8:43, 2Ch 6:32, 2Ch 6:33, Psa 22:27, Psa 67:1-4, Psa 72:17, Psa 89:9, Psa 117:1, Psa 117:2, Psa 138:4, Psa 138:5, Isa 2:2, Isa 2:3, Isa 11:10, Isa 49:6, Isa 49:22, Isa 49:23, Isa 60:3-12, Isa 66:18-20, Jer 16:19, Hos 1:10, Hos 2:23, Amo 9:12, Mic 4:1, Mic 4:2, Mal 1:11, Mat 8:11, Act 15:14, Act 15:18, Rom 15:9-12, Rev 11:15
Reciprocal: Gen 49:10 – the gathering Deu 4:6 – Surely Jos 2:11 – for the Lord Est 8:17 – many of the people Psa 67:2 – That Psa 102:15 – General Psa 102:22 – General Psa 115:14 – Lord Isa 19:24 – shall Isa 26:2 – Open Isa 44:5 – I am Isa 45:14 – Surely Isa 49:12 – these shall Isa 55:5 – nation Isa 56:3 – the son Isa 66:23 – shall all Jer 3:17 – and all the nations Jer 31:6 – Arise Jer 33:9 – a name Eze 20:40 – there shall Dan 11:33 – understand Mic 7:16 – nations Zep 2:11 – and men Zep 3:9 – that Zec 8:13 – ye shall Zec 14:9 – the Lord Mat 13:32 – the least Mar 4:31 – is less than Luk 13:19 – and it Joh 10:16 – other Act 2:10 – Jews Act 3:19 – when Act 9:31 – were multiplied Act 10:24 – and had Act 11:1 – the Gentiles Act 13:47 – that thou Act 15:17 – the residue Act 17:4 – some Rom 3:29 – General Rom 11:12 – their Rom 11:18 – thou bearest Rom 11:25 – until Col 3:11 – there 1Th 1:9 – ye Rev 3:9 – I will make them to Rev 7:9 – a great Rev 15:4 – for all
Fuente: The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Zec 8:20-23. Contrary to my usual procedure, I have made one paragraph of these verses because the comments will apply to them as a whole. It is another instance where the prophet jumps from fleshly to spiritual Israel. It is a prediction of the setting up of the church and the reign of Christ in his kingdom starting at Jerusalem, The same prediction is in Isa 2:1-4 and Mic 4:1-5, and the fulfillment is recorded in the book of Acts, beginning in the second chapter. It is the kingdom the prophet Daniel saw in his prediction of the kingdom to stand for ever (Dan 2:44).
Fuente: Combined Bible Commentary
Zec 8:20-22. It shall yet come to pass, &c. The design of this and the three following verses is evidently to show the high degree of estimation in which Jerusalem and the Jews would hereafter be held, by foreign nations, when those among them, who were piously disposed to worship Jehovah the true God, would come to worship him at Jerusalem, as a place of peculiar sanctity; and those who wanted protection would humbly sue to the Jews for it, convinced that the men of that nation were especial objects of divine favour. It must be observed, however, that though the prediction contained in these verses might, in the primary sense, refer to those times of the Jewish republic which should precede the coming of the Messiah, and to the proselytes, which should then be made to the Jewish religion; yet the expressions are such, that it can scarce be doubted that the times of the gospel are also and more especially intended, when many more, of various nations, should be brought to the knowledge of the true God, and engaged to worship him in an acceptable manner. There shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities Great multitudes of different cities and nations. Saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord The expressions allude to the Jews going up in companies to Jerusalem at the solemn feasts. I will go also So every single person shall express his willingness to go along with them. Many people, &c., shall come to seek the Lord in Jerusalem Understanding the words literally, we find the first-fruits of these mentioned Act 2:10-12; but mystically Jerusalem means the church of Christ. To pray before the Lord To perform all parts of gospel worship.
Fuente: Joseph Bensons Commentary on the Old and New Testaments
Zec 8:20-23. The coming restoration and subsequent restoration of Judah, which will be so distinguished by the blessing of the Lord, that all nations will be desirous of having him for their God.
Fuente: Peake’s Commentary on the Bible
8:20 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; [It shall] yet [come to pass], that there shall come {l} people, and the inhabitants of many cities:
(l) He declares the great zeal that God would give the Gentiles to come to his Church, and to unite with the Jews in his true religion, which would be in the kingdom of Christ.
Fuente: Geneva Bible Notes
The Lord foretold that people from one of the world’s cities would contact people from another of these cities and would plan to go up to Jerusalem immediately to worship the Lord (cf. Zec 7:2). They would do this eagerly, not out of a sense of duty or obligation (cf. Zec 2:11; Isa 2:1-5; Mic 4:1-5). Many people representing many nations from around the world would come to Jerusalem to pray and worship Yahweh Almighty.
"Jerusalem is no longer viewed simply as the heart of Judaism but as the centre of God’s dealings with all nations, and as a glorious realization of the ancient promise given to Abraham (cf. Gen 12:3)." [Note: Ellis, p. 1039.]
"With the Davidic kingdom established, Israel will be a medium of blessing to the entire globe." [Note: Unger, p. 148.]