Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Zechariah Ch.12 / 14 Ch.s
ZEC: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.