Zechariah 8:20-22 Thus said the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities:… 1. We are here reminded of our high and distinguishing privileges, as subjects of the Christian economy, in relation to the outward institutions of religion, and all that is commanded in the worship and service of God. When we would offer our devotions in His presence, we need no longer travel from one city to another, ascending to the house of the Lord. Wherever we seek Him, He is equally near, and equally accessible. Great and important purposes were once attained by the selection of a definite abode, wherein to place the sensible demonstrations of His majesty. It was in accordance with the infantile condition of the human mind on the great subject of religion. It repressed the tendency to mingle with the idol worship of the surrounding nations. It secured the permanency of the ordinances of the true God, till the coming of Messiah. By the final cessation of such services, soon after the death of Jesus, it marked that the Messiah had appeared, that the fulness of the times had been accomplished. 2. We are led to reflect upon that singular and elevated relation we now personally sustain to Him who was once known and worshipped only under the appellation of the God of Abraham. We have come to the family and household of the saints. This incorporation of the idolatrous heathen with the seed of the promise — this accession of the Gentiles to the Church — while it presents a subject of gratitude and wonder, is fitted also to expand our sentiments and to confirm our faith; and it leads us to anticipate a day when the Gospel shall universally prevail. 3. An interesting and attractive picture of a period of spiritual prosperity. (1) The period thus described is marked by the diffusion of the spirit of prayer. (2) Under the aspect of unity and mutual cooperation. (3) Signalised by the prevalence of activity, energy, and zeal. "Let us go speedily. Let us go to seek the Lord of hosts."(4) The last characteristic of the period so depicted is the inseparable and intimate connection of all its other features with the decisiveness of individual piety. "I will go also." 4. Apply these reflections to purposes of immediate and practical utility. (R. S. M'All, LL. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities:WEB: Thus says Yahweh of Armies: "Many peoples, and the inhabitants of many cities will yet come; |
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