Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for April 19, 2015
“There Shall Be a Fountain Opened” Zechariah 13:1-9 Bible Study 04/19/15
The prophecy of Zechariah is set in the late fifth century B. C. and follows the return of Jewish exiles from captivity in Babylon. The Lord graciously made it possible for His rebellious people to return to their homeland and to begin the task of rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple. While a grasp of this background information is important, one must also observe that Zechariah 13 describes events that would transpire long after the era of Zechariah’s prophetic activity. Another significant issue is the close connection between Zechariah 12 and Zechariah 13. These two chapters are linked closely both chronologically and theologically. For example, the cleansing depicted in chapter 13 follows the repentance of the people in chapter 12. One should also note the use of “on that day” in 12:11 and 13:1. This phrase appears nine times in the two chapters. The phrase itself refers to a time of final repentance at the end of the world history in which all Israel will be saved (Rom. 11:26). The prophecy related to “on that day” has major implications for all people of every generation, location and derivation. It foreshadows and points to the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross.
I. Consider the future fountain (1)
-connection to the dramatic prophecy in 12:10-14…John 19:37
-OT “fountain” references: Psa. 36:4, Jer. 2:13, Jer. 17:13, Ezek. 36:25-26
-the nature of this fountain… Heb. 9:22
-the extension of benefits
-cleanse from sin and uncleanness…John 19:34
II. Ponder the purification process (2-6)
-idols removed
-false prophets not tolerated…Deut. 13:6-10, 18:20
-false prophets ashamed…1Kings 18:28
III. Affirm the identity of the “Stricken Shepherd” (7-9)
-My shepherd…the man who stands next to me…Isa. 53: 4-10
-the Stricken Shepherd…Matt. 26:31, Mark 14:27, John 10:11
-smiting and scattering
-the refining process
IV. So what?
-Because Jesus alone fulfills the prophecy of the Stricken Shepherd, flee to Him for refuge and cleansing.
-Take the doctrine of sanctification seriously.
-“With great forgiveness comes great responsibility.” (R. Stokes)
-“…Foul, I to the fountain fly, wash me Savior or I die…” (A. Toplady)
-“E’er since by faith I saw the stream Thy flowing wounds supply, Redeeming love has been my theme and shall be till I die.” (W. Cowper)
