‏ Zechariah 2

* The prosperity of Jerusalem. (1-5) The Jews called to return

to their own land. (6-9) A promise of God's presence. (10-13)

1-5 The Son of David, even the Man Christ Jesus, whom the

prophet sees with a measuring line in his hand, is the

Master-Builder of his church. God notices the extent of his

church, and will take care that whatever number of guests are

brought to the wedding-supper, there shall be room. This vision

means well to Jerusalem. The walls of a city, as they defend it,

so they straiten its inhabitants; but Jerusalem shall be

extended as freely as if it had no walls at all, yet shall be as

safe as if it had the strongest walls. In the church of God

there yet is room for other multitudes, more than man can

number. None shall be refused who trust in Christ; and He never

shuts out from heaven one true member of the church on earth.

God will be a Wall of fire round them, which can neither be

broken through nor undermined, nor can it be assailed without

danger to those who attack. This vision was to have its full

accomplishment in the gospel church, which is extended by

admitting the Gentiles into it; and which has the Son of God for

its Prince and Protector; especially in the glorious times yet

to come. 6-9 If God will build Jerusalem for the people and their

comfort, they must inhabit it for him and his glory. The

promises and privileges with which God's people are blessed,

should engage us to join them, whatever it costs us. When Zion

is enlarged to make room for all God's Israel, it is the

greatest madness for any of them to stay in Babylon. The

captivity of a sinful state is by no means to be continued in,

though a man may be easy in worldly matters. Escape for thy

life, look not behind thee. Christ has proclaimed that

deliverance to the captives, which he has himself wrought out,

and it concerns every one to resolve that sin shall not have

dominion over him. Those who would be found among God's

children, must save themselves from this world, see #Ac 2:40|.

What Christ will do for his church, shall be an evident proof of

God's care and affection. He that touches you, touches the apple

of his eye. This is a strong expression of God's love to his

church. He takes what is done against her as done against the

tenderest part of the eye, to which the least touch is a great

offence. Christ is sent to be the Protector of his church. 10-13 Here is a prediction of the coming of Christ in human

nature. Many nations in that day would renounce idolatry, and

God will own those for his people who join him with purpose of

heart. Glorious times are foretold as a prophecy of our Lord's

coming and kingdom. God is about to do something unexpected, and

very surprising, and to plead his people's cause, which had long

seemed neglected. Silently submit to his holy will, and

patiently wait the event; assured that God will complete all his

work. He will ere long come to judgment, to complete the

salvation of his people, and to punish the inhabitants of the

earth for their sins.