Chapter Summary

Jerusalem's coming siege by the Beast and his armies. Deliverance of Judah by the Lord Himself. The Spirit poured out and the pierced One recognized.

Discussion Questions for Zechariah, Chapter 12

1. How does the image of Jerusalem as a cup of reeling in verses 1-3 illustrate the concept of divine judgment and the consequences of defying God's will?
2. Reflect on the divine intervention described in verses 4-6, where the Lord brings confusion and strength to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem. How can we rely on God's power and sovereignty to overcome adversity and conflicts, uniting us in our common bond as His children?
3. Discuss the intertwining of physical and spiritual warfare depicted in verse 7, where the Lord will save the tents of Judah first. How can we draw strength and inspiration from this promise of deliverance and victory, clinging to our hope in Christ as our ultimate defender and Savior?
4. Contemplate the phrase "On that day I will set out to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem" in verse 9. How does this declaration emphasize the protective and vindicating nature of God's love towards His faithful followers?
5. Reflect on the mention of mourning for the one they have pierced (cf. verse 10), an allusion to Christ's sacrificial death and the piercing of His side on the cross. How does this prophetic reference deepen our understanding of Jesus' redemptive work and the profound impact of His atonement on our lives?
6. How does the proclamation in verse 11, where the inhabitants of Jerusalem will recognize the Lord's grace and mercy, prompt us to reflect on our own awareness and gratitude for God's unending love and forgiveness?
7. In verse 12, the household of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem lament individually. How can we cultivate a spirit of personal repentance and sorrow for our sins, seeking renewal from the Lord?
8. When each clan mourns apart in verse 13, what does this teach us about how can we support and uplift one another?
9. How does the portrayal of mourning as a time of intense sorrow and reflection in verses 10-14 underscore the power of repentance? How does should it motivate us to seek forgiveness and restoration with a contrite heart?
10. In the final verses of Zechariah 12, how does the return to God and recognition of His sovereignty by the inhabitants of Jerusalem set the stage for a profound spiritual revival and renewal?

Key Words/Phrase

Jerusalem's deliverer v. 10.

Characters

God, Christ, Holy Spirit, Zechariah.

Strong Verse(s)

10