What is the meaning of Zechariah 1:13? So The little word “So” ties verse 13 to the plea in verse 12, where “the angel of the LORD” interceded, asking, “How long will You withhold mercy from Jerusalem…?” • It signals an immediate, gracious response—God is not distant. • Psalm 34:17 reminds us, “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears.” • Isaiah 65:24 echoes the speed of His answer: “Before they call, I will answer.” the LORD spoke God Himself, not merely the angel, issues the reply. • His direct speech underscores His personal involvement (Exodus 3:14; Hebrews 1:1-2). • When the Creator speaks, things change—Genesis 1 sets that precedent. • Jeremiah 1:12 assures, “I am watching over My word to accomplish it.” kind and comforting words The content of God’s reply is gentle, not harsh. • “Kind” mirrors Psalm 145:17, “The LORD is righteous… and kind in all His works.” • “Comforting” recalls Isaiah 40:1, “Comfort, comfort My people.” • These words anticipate the restoration promises that follow (Zechariah 1:16-17). to the angel God addresses the very messenger who interceded. • Angels serve as “ministering spirits” (Hebrews 1:14), yet here even the angel needs reassurance. • The scene highlights heavenly partnership in God’s redemptive plan (Daniel 9:21-23). who was speaking with me Zechariah stands close enough to overhear the divine conversation. • The prophet is drawn into God’s counsel, much like Amos 3:7 affirms: “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing… to His servants the prophets.” • Personal involvement strengthens Zechariah’s authority to relay hope to the people. summary Verse 13 shows God’s swift, gentle response to intercession. He personally answers with words designed to calm hearts, signaling that restoration is underway. The exchange reassures both the angelic messenger and the prophet, affirming that the LORD hears, speaks, and acts kindly toward His people. |
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