Reading for November 27th

Read Zechariah 8.1-23 A promise of restoration.
In this second part of his final speech, Zechariah includes many of the typical themes of
post-exilic prophecy: the renewal of Jerusalem (vv. 2-5), the return of the exiles (vv. 6-8),
the rebuilding of the Temple (vv. 9-13), and the respect of the nations (vv. 20-23).
In verse 6 the remnant refers to the exiles who are returning to Judah (vv. 7-8; Hag 1.12).
To these returnees the process of reconstruction seems impossible (4.10; Hag 2.3).
In verse 9 laying the Temple's foundation is described in Hag 1.12-14 and Ezra 5.1-2.
In verse 10 the difficult times described here appear to reflect those mentioned by Haggia (1.2-11).
In verse 17 false oaths are a major concern in Zechariah's sixth vision (5.1-4).
In verse 19 though not addressed directly to those who had asked Zechariah about mourning
rituals (7.3), this speech instructs the people to substitute festivals of celebration for fasting.
In verses 22-23 the conversion of the nations is a common theme in the post-exilic period
(Isa 60.1-7; Mic 4.1-4).
Comments or Questions...