They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him... (Zechariah 12:10)
Chapter 12 is a case study in the interplay of God’s kindness and humanity’s repentance. The opening sentence speaks to God’s sovereignty, exercised in this case for the protection of Jerusalem. In response to God’s goodness, Judah’s national leaders acknowledge their indebtedness to Yahweh for his deliverance. God responds to their gratitude with continued support.
In John’s Passion narrative, he quotes Zechariah (John 19:37) to bolster his position that Jesus is the Christ. Though it is unlikely Zechariah was referencing the Messiah, it was not uncommon for New Testament writers to see Christ in Old Testament writings.
God’s consistent graciousness provokes a spirit of humility among his people. Rather than pointing to Jesus and the crucifixion, these verses portray the people’s grief upon recalling how their disobedience and unfaithfulness have pierced the heart of God.
Judah’s humble response to God’s protection and provision foreshadows the truth affirmed by the Apostle Paul more than half a century later: Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance? (Romans 2:4)
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