Zechariah 1:3

So tell the people that this is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Return to Me, declares the LORD of Hosts, and I will return to you, says the LORD of Hosts.'

Study Bible

So tell the people
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Zechariah. The Hebrew word for "tell" is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to say or declare. This is not merely a suggestion but a divine directive, emphasizing the importance of the message. The audience, "the people," refers to the Israelites who had returned from Babylonian exile. Historically, this was a time of rebuilding and renewal, both physically and spiritually, for the Jewish community.

this is what the LORD of Hosts says
The title "LORD of Hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) is a powerful designation of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies. It underscores His authority and ability to fulfill His promises. This title reassures the people of God's supreme power and His capability to protect and guide them. In the context of post-exilic Israel, this was a comforting reminder of God's presence and strength amidst their challenges.

‘Return to Me,’
The Hebrew word for "return" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to turn back or repent. This is a call for repentance, a central theme in the prophetic literature. It implies a heartfelt turning away from sin and a return to a covenant relationship with God. The invitation is personal and relational, highlighting God's desire for His people to come back to Him. This reflects the consistent biblical theme of God's grace and willingness to forgive those who seek Him earnestly.

declares the LORD of Hosts
The repetition of "LORD of Hosts" reinforces the authority and seriousness of the message. The word "declares" (נְאֻם, neum) is often used in prophetic literature to introduce a divine oracle. It signifies that the message is not of human origin but is a direct communication from God. This repetition serves to remind the people of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His covenant promises.

‘and I will return to you,’
This promise is conditional, based on the people's response to God's call for repentance. The phrase "I will return" uses the same Hebrew root "שׁוּב" (shuv), indicating a reciprocal relationship. God's return signifies His favor, blessing, and presence among His people. Historically, this was crucial for the Israelites as they sought to re-establish their identity and worship in Jerusalem. It assures them that their efforts in rebuilding the temple and their community would be met with divine support and presence.

says the LORD of Hosts
The closing repetition of "says the LORD of Hosts" serves as a bookend to the verse, emphasizing the divine origin and authority of the message. It reassures the people that the promise of God's return is as certain as His command for them to return. This repetition is a literary device that underscores the reliability and faithfulness of God, encouraging the people to trust in His word and respond in obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet who ministered to the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian exile. His name means "Yahweh remembers."

2. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies.

3. The People of Israel
The audience of Zechariah's message, specifically the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The city to which the exiles returned and where Zechariah delivered his prophecies.

5. The Return from Exile
The historical context of Zechariah's ministry, focusing on the spiritual and physical restoration of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Call to Repentance
God’s invitation to "return to Me" is a call to repentance, a turning away from sin and a turning back to God. This is a continual process in the believer's life.

God’s Faithfulness
The promise "I will return to you" highlights God's faithfulness. When we take steps toward Him, He is faithful to respond and restore.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's call is crucial. The Israelites' return from exile was not just physical but required a spiritual renewal and commitment to God's commands.

God’s Sovereignty
The repeated use of "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's supreme authority and power. Trusting in His sovereignty is essential for spiritual growth.

Restoration and Relationship
The verse underscores the relational aspect of our faith. God desires a personal relationship with His people, marked by mutual commitment and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "return to the LORD" in your personal life, and how can you practically apply this in your daily walk with God?

2. How does understanding God as the "LORD of Hosts" influence your perspective on His ability to intervene in your life situations?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness after returning to Him. How did this impact your relationship with Him?

4. In what ways can the call to repentance in Zechariah 1:3 be seen as relevant to the church today?

5. How do the themes of repentance and restoration in Zechariah 1:3 connect with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Malachi 3:7
This verse echoes the call to return to God, highlighting the theme of repentance and restoration.

James 4:8
This New Testament passage parallels the promise that drawing near to God results in God drawing near to us.

2 Chronicles 15:2
This verse reinforces the principle that God is with those who are with Him, emphasizing the conditional nature of His presence.

Isaiah 55:6-7
These verses encourage seeking the Lord while He may be found, underscoring the urgency of returning to God.

Hosea 6:1
This passage calls for returning to the Lord for healing and restoration, similar to Zechariah's message.