II. THE DESIRE OF JEHOVAH TO RESTORE ISRAEL
Zechariah 8 reveals the desire of Jehovah to restore Israel. This is a precious matter.
A. The Desire of Jehovah
and the Restoration of Israel
1. Jehovah of Hosts Being Jealous
for Zion with a Great Jealousy
Jehovah of hosts is jealous for Zion with a great jealousy. Indeed, He is jealous for her with great wrath to her enemies (v. 2). Although God is love, He nevertheless has great wrath toward the enemies of His people. He is jealous for His beloved elect.
2. Jehovah Returning to Zion
and Dwelling within Jerusalem
Jehovah returns to Zion, and He will dwell within Jerusalem. Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth, and the mountain of Jehovah of hosts, the Holy Mountain (v. 3).
3. Old Men and Old Women
Dwelling in the Streets of Jerusalem
Old men and old women will dwell in the streets of Jerusalem, each with his staff in his hand due to the multitude of his days (v. 4). This indicates that the city will be in a marvelous situation and that the old men and old women will have the real enjoyment of life.
4. The Streets of the City
Being Full of Boys and Girls Playing
The streets of the city will be full of boys and girls playing (v. 5). This indicates that the city will be peaceful and very pleasant.
(Life-Study of Zechariah, Chapter 8, by Witness Lee)
