A repeated phrase in Zechariah 12-14 is the wording On that day, occurring seventeen times, which refers to the return of Jesus Christ. The focal point for our Lord’s return is Jerusalem, which is referenced twenty-two times. In prior verses leading up to today’s passage, we noted how our Lord will defend his city (1-3) and deliver his people (4-9). As we examine today’s passage, it becomes clear that our Lord’s objective is more than physical deliverance. What is truly needed is a spiritual transformation among his people.

Consider how God uses the past to prepare his people for the future. The phrase whom they have pierced, though referenced by Zechariah during his ministry (520-470BC), pertains to Jesus Christ (John 19:37, Revelation 1:7). Furthermore, the words as great as the mourning for Hadad-rimmon in the plain of Megiddo simultaneously transport us back to the death of King Josiah (see 2 Chronicles 35:20-27), as well as forward to the future Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16:12-16). Let’s examine these verses as we consider God’s sovereign plan regarding the second coming of Jesus Christ.

One of the key phrases found in Zechariah 12-14 is on (or in) that day, which occurs seventeen times. This phrase is associated with the return of Jesus Christ. During this time, the combination of God’s justice and grace is fully exhibited. Justice is demonstrated toward those who stand opposed to God and his people, while grace in the form of deliverance is provided to those who trust in the LORD. Let’s examine 12:6-9 carefully and note what God reveals about his plans.

Zechariah, whose name means Yahweh remembers, served as both prophet and priest during the post-exilic times. His ministry began around 520 B.C., coinciding with the work of Haggai. The book of Zechariah can be easily divided into two parts. Chapters 1-8 were most likely written at the start of Zechariah’s ministry, at about the age of 30. Chapters 9-14 were composed during the latter years of Zechariah’s life.

Chapters 9-14 are organized around the phrase the oracle of the word of the Lord, found in both 9:1 and 12:1. The word oracle needs to be understood as a burden that was placed upon Zechariah’s heart by God and now is being communicated to God’s people. Over the coming weeks, we will focus our attention upon the second burden, which pertains to the return of our Lord during Israel’s final conflict. Look for phrases and terms such as On that day and Jerusalem as we explore chapters 12 through 14 together.