Welcome to the next Bible Study of the book of Zechariah, Chapter 13:

Verse 1: “In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.”

This verse speaks of a future time when redemption and cleansing will be available to GOD’S people. The image of a “fountain” suggests an abundant source of life and purity. It reminds us that through faith, we have access to forgiveness and grace, washing away our sins and impurities.

Verse 2: “And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD of hosts, that I will cut off the names of the idols out of the land, and they shall no more be remembered: and also I will cause the prophets and the unclean spirit to pass out of the land.”

Idolatry is a significant barrier to true worship and relationship with GOD. This verse signifies a time of spiritual cleansing where all false worship will be removed. GOD desires a pure connection with His people, free from distractions and falsehoods. It’s a call to examine our own lives for any idols that may be taking GOD’S place.

Verse 3: “And it shall come to pass, that when any shall yet prophesy, then his father and his mother that begat him shall say unto him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest lies in the name of the LORD: and his father and his mother that begat him shall thrust him through when he prophesieth.”

This verse indicates a serious approach to false prophecy and the desire for truth in GOD’S community. The intensity of the family’s reaction shows how vital discernment is in spiritual matters. It encourages us to evaluate the teachings we accept and to commit to the truth of GOD’S marvelous, righteous Word, standing firm against deception.

Verse 4: “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the prophets shall be ashamed every one of his vision, when he hath prophesied; neither shall they wear a rough garment to deceive:”

True prophets of GOD will not want to be associated with falsehood. This brings forth the idea of authenticity and integrity in ministry. When we serve GOD, our lives should reflect His truth without pretenses. This verse encourages us to embrace our identity in CHRIST honestly and to speak His truth boldly.

Verse 5: “But he shall say, I am no prophet, I am an husbandman; for man taught me to keep cattle from my youth.”

The humility of the prophet here portrays a shift from seeking recognition to serving faithfully in everyday life. This emphasizes that every believer has a role to play, and it doesn’t always have to be in the spotlight. It encourages us to find purpose in our daily work and responsibilities.

Verse 6: “And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thy hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.”

The wounds reference the suffering and sacrifice that can arise from being part of GOD’S community. It suggests a profound connection between the believer and CHRIST, who bore wounds for our sins. It reminds us that suffering can be part of our testimony and a means through which we relate to others.

Verse 7: “Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.”

This verse foreshadows the suffering of the Messiah, JESUS CHRIST, and indicates the scattering of His followers. It poses a reminder of the challenges and trials that believers may face in their journey of faith, yet also assures us that GOD will protect and care for His children, even in tumultuous times.

Verse 8: “And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the Lord, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein.”

This verse expresses the judgment that will occur, yet it also highlights hope for a faithful remnant. It calls us to be part of that “third” to remain faithful and to seek resilience in our spiritual walk, trusting that GOD preserves His people through trials.

Verse 9: “And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my GOD.”

This concluding verse is filled with hope and assurance. GOD promises to refine His people, much like precious metals going through fire. It signifies transformation and growth through hardships. It’s an invitation to trust in GOD’S’s faithfulness, knowing with a trustworthy, peacefully understanding that through trials, we are drawn closer to Him and identified as His own.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, We thank You for Your marvelous, righteous Word and the powerful truth found in Zechariah. Help us to recognize the fountain of grace that You have opened for us through Your beloved dear Son, JESUS CHRIST. Purify our hearts and minds, removing any idols or distractions that may keep us from fully worshiping You. We pray for discernment, that we may always seek and speak Your truth. Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, in times of hardship, remind us of the refining process that strengthens our faith. May we embrace our identities and roles in our everyday lives, serving You faithfully. May we never forget the wounds of JESUS CHRIST, which He bore for our sake, and may they inspire us to endure any trials we face. We thank You for the promise that You are with us, and we desire to call upon Your mighty, glorious name. We ask for Your guidance, comfort, and protection as we navigate our lives. Strengthen us and bind us closer to You and each other.
Thank you dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER. We pray all these things throughout the mighty, glorious, fulfilling name of JESUS CHRIST! Amen!

Much LoVe, JoY, Peace and Blessings to You, through JESUS CHRIST, our almighty dear LORD, SAVIOUR and REDEEMER!