Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the man who is My Companion, declares the LORD of Hosts. Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered, and I will turn My hand against the little ones. Awake, O swordThe phrase "Awake, O sword" is a divine command, indicating the initiation of judgment or action. In the Hebrew context, the "sword" often symbolizes divine judgment or warfare. Here, it is personified and called to action by God Himself. This reflects the seriousness and inevitability of the forthcoming event. The sword's awakening signifies a pivotal moment in God's redemptive plan, where divine justice and mercy intersect. against My Shepherd
"My Shepherd" refers to a divinely appointed leader or figure, often interpreted as a messianic prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ. In the Hebrew tradition, a shepherd symbolizes guidance, care, and leadership. The possessive "My" emphasizes the close relationship and divine appointment of this shepherd. Historically, shepherds were vital to the community, and their role as protectors and guides is a recurring biblical theme, underscoring the gravity of the shepherd being struck. against the man who is My Companion
The term "Companion" in Hebrew can denote a close associate or equal, suggesting a profound relationship between God and this individual. This phrase highlights the unique and intimate connection between God and the shepherd, further supporting the messianic interpretation. The use of "man" emphasizes the humanity of this figure, aligning with the Christian belief in the incarnation of Christ, who is both fully God and fully man. declares the LORD of Hosts
This declaration comes from the "LORD of Hosts," a title that underscores God's supreme authority and command over heavenly armies. It reinforces the divine origin and authority of the prophecy. The phrase assures the reader of the certainty and power behind the words, as they are not merely human predictions but divine decrees from the sovereign Creator. Strike the Shepherd
The command to "Strike the Shepherd" is a prophetic foretelling of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, this is directly referenced in the Gospels, where Jesus applies it to Himself (Matthew 26:31, Mark 14:27). The striking of the shepherd is a necessary part of God's redemptive plan, illustrating the sacrificial role of Christ as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. and the sheep will be scattered
The scattering of the sheep symbolizes the dispersion and confusion of Christ's followers after His arrest and crucifixion. In a broader sense, it reflects the vulnerability of believers without their shepherd. Historically, this scattering was evident in the disciples' initial fear and disbandment. Yet, it also sets the stage for the eventual gathering and strengthening of the early Church through the Holy Spirit. and I will turn My hand against the little ones
This phrase can be interpreted as a continuation of judgment or discipline, possibly referring to the trials faced by the early followers of Christ. The "little ones" may symbolize the disciples or the nascent Christian community. However, from a redemptive perspective, this turning of God's hand also implies His eventual protection and guidance, as seen in the growth and perseverance of the Church despite persecution. The phrase serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the refining process of His people through trials. Persons / Places / Events 1. The ShepherdRepresents a leader or guide, often interpreted as a prophecy concerning Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the Good Shepherd in the New Testament. 2. The LORD of HostsA title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, indicating divine authority and power. 3. The SwordSymbolizes judgment or divine intervention, often used in the Bible to represent God's instrument of justice. 4. The SheepRepresents the followers or disciples, who are scattered when the shepherd is struck, indicating a time of trial or dispersion. 5. The Little OnesCould refer to the vulnerable or less mature followers, highlighting God's continued attention and care even in times of judgment. Teaching Points Divine Sovereignty and PurposeGod's plan often involves difficult events, but they serve a greater purpose in His redemptive history. Fulfillment of ProphecyZechariah 13:7 is a clear example of Old Testament prophecy fulfilled in the New Testament, affirming the reliability of Scripture. The Role of Jesus as the ShepherdJesus' role as the Shepherd involves both sacrifice and leadership, calling us to trust in His guidance and care. The Scattering and Gathering of BelieversTimes of trial may lead to scattering, but God’s ultimate plan includes gathering and restoration. God's Care for the VulnerableEven when judgment comes, God’s hand remains on the "little ones," showing His compassion and care for all believers. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of the "shepherd" in Zechariah 13:7 impact your view of His role in your life today? 2. In what ways can the scattering of the sheep be seen in the church today, and how can we work towards unity and restoration? 3. Reflect on a time when you felt "scattered" or distant from God. How did you experience His hand upon you during that time? 4. How does the concept of divine sovereignty in difficult circumstances challenge or comfort you in your current situation? 5. Considering the connection between Zechariah 13:7 and Matthew 26:31, how does prophecy enhance your understanding of the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 26:31Jesus directly quotes Zechariah 13:7, applying it to His impending arrest and the scattering of His disciples, showing the fulfillment of prophecy. John 10:11-18Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep, connecting His sacrificial role to the prophecy in Zechariah. Isaiah 53:4-6The suffering servant passage, which parallels the idea of a leader being struck for the sake of others, emphasizing the redemptive purpose. Hebrews 13:20-21Refers to Jesus as the great Shepherd of the sheep, raised from the dead, highlighting His ongoing role and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. People David, ZechariahPlaces JerusalemTopics Almighty, Armies, Awake, Close, Declares, O, Ones, Says, Scattered, Sheep, Shepherd, Strike, Sword, TurnDictionary of Bible Themes Zechariah 13:7 1611 Scripture, inspiration and authority
2036 Christ, humility
2330 Christ, as shepherd
2333 Christ, attitude to OT
2366 Christ, prophecies concerning
2411 cross, predictions
2570 Christ, suffering
4684 sheep
7021 church, OT anticipations
7130 flock, God's
8841 unfaithfulness, to people Zechariah 13:6-7 5281 crucifixion Library The Open Fountain
"Wake, harp of Zion, wake again, Upon thine ancient hill, On Jordan's long deserted plain, By Kedron's lowly rill. The hymn shall yet in Zion swell That sounds Messiah's praise, And thy loved name, Immanuel! As once in ancient days. For Israel yet shall own her King, For her salvation waits, And hill and dale shall sweetly sing With praise in all her gates." Having said thus much, however, we shall now take our text as belonging to ourselves in common with Israel, for in the gospel no promise is …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871The Twenty-Second Psalm.
The Cross of Christ. THE Twenty-second Psalm contains a most remarkable prophecy. The human instrument through whom this prophecy was given is King David. The Psalm does not contain the experience of the King, though he passed through great sufferings, yet the sufferings he speaks of in this Psalm are not his own. They are the sufferings of Christ. It is written in the New Testament that the prophets searched and enquired diligently about the coming salvation. The Spirit of Christ, which was in …
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory Messiah Unpitied, and Without a Comforter
Reproach [Rebuke] hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none. T he greatness of suffering cannot be certainly estimated by the single consideration of the immediate, apparent cause; the impression it actually makes upon the mind of the sufferer, must likewise be taken into the account. That which is a heavy trial to one person, may be much lighter to another, and, perhaps, no trial at all. And a state …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1 Appendix xix. On Eternal Punishment, According to the Rabbis and the New Testament
THE Parables of the Ten Virgins' and of the Unfaithful Servant' close with a Discourse on the Last Things,' the final Judgment, and the fate of those Christ's Righ Hand and at His Left (St. Matt. xxv. 31-46). This final Judgment by our Lord forms a fundamental article in the Creed of the Church. It is the Christ Who comes, accompanied by the Angelic Host, and sits down on the throne of His Glory, when all nations are gathered before Him. Then the final separation is made, and joy or sorrow awarded …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Shepherd of Our Souls.
"I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep."--John x. 11. Our Lord here appropriates to Himself the title under which He had been foretold by the Prophets. "David My servant shall be king over them," says Almighty God by the mouth of Ezekiel: "and they all shall have one Shepherd." And in the book of Zechariah, "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." …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII The Warning
"And when they had sung a hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered abroad. Howbeit, after I am raised up, I will go before you into Galilee. But Peter said unto Him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I. And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, that thou today, even this night, before the cock crow twice, shalt deny me thrice. But he spake exceeding …
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark Nature of Covenanting.
A covenant is a mutual voluntary compact between two parties on given terms or conditions. It may be made between superiors and inferiors, or between equals. The sentiment that a covenant can be made only between parties respectively independent of one another is inconsistent with the testimony of Scripture. Parties to covenants in a great variety of relative circumstances, are there introduced. There, covenant relations among men are represented as obtaining not merely between nation and nation, …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting "Seek First the Kingdom of God," &C.
Matt. vi. 33.--"Seek first the kingdom of God," &c. It may seem strange, that when so great things are allowed, and so small things are denied, that we do not seek them. The kingdom of God and his righteousness are great things indeed, great not only in themselves, but greater in comparison of us. The things of this world, even great events, are but poor, petty, and inconsiderable matters, when compared with these. Yet he graciously allows a larger measure of these great things relating to his kingdom …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning His Future Work
The Lord Jesus Christ, who finished the work on earth the Father gave Him to do, who is now bodily present in the highest heaven, occupying the Father's throne and exercising His priesthood in behalf of His people, is also King. To Him belongeth a Kingdom and a kingly Glory. He has therefore a kingly work to do. While His past work was foretold by the Spirit of God and His priestly work foreshadowed in the Old Testament, His work as King and His glorious Kingdom to come are likewise the subjects …
A. C. Gaebelein—The Work Of Christ Judas' Betrayal and Peter's Denial Foretold.
(Jerusalem. Evening Before the Crucifixion.) ^A Matt. XXVI. 21-25, 31-35; ^B Mark XIV. 18-21, 27-31; ^C Luke XXII. 21-23, 31-38; ^D John XIII. 21-38. ^b 18 And ^d 21 When Jesus had thus said, ^b as they sat and were eating, ^d he was troubled in the spirit, and ^b Jesus ^d testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. ^b even he that eateth with me. ^c 21 But behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. [The foreknowledge of Judas' crime …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency
PHILIPPIANS i. 21-30 He will be spared to them--Spiritual wealth of the paragraph--Adolphe Monod's exposition--Charles Simeon's testimony--The equilibrium and its secret--The intermediate bliss--He longs for their full consistency--The "gift" of suffering Ver. 21. +For to me, to live is Christ+; the consciousness and experiences of living, in the body, are so full of Christ, my supreme Interest, that CHRIST sums them all up; +and to die+, the act of dying,[1] +is gain+, for it will usher me in …
Handley C. G. Moule—Philippian Studies How to Make Use of Christ for Cleansing of us from Our Daily Spots.
Having spoken of the way of making use of Christ for removing the guilt of our daily transgressions, we come to speak of the way of making use of Christ, for taking away the guilt that cleaveth to the soul, through daily transgressions; "for every sin defileth the man," Matt. xv. 20; and the best are said to have their spots, and to need washing, which presupposeth filthiness and defilement, Eph. v. 27. John xiii. 8-10. Hence we are so oft called to this duty of washing and making us clean. Isa. …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life Zechariah
CHAPTERS I-VIII Two months after Haggai had delivered his first address to the people in 520 B.C., and a little over a month after the building of the temple had begun (Hag. i. 15), Zechariah appeared with another message of encouragement. How much it was needed we see from the popular despondency reflected in Hag. ii. 3, Jerusalem is still disconsolate (Zech. i. 17), there has been fasting and mourning, vii. 5, the city is without walls, ii. 5, the population scanty, ii. 4, and most of the people …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Zechariah 13:7 NIVZechariah 13:7 NLTZechariah 13:7 ESVZechariah 13:7 NASBZechariah 13:7 KJV
Zechariah 13:7 Commentaries
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