Prisoners of Hope

O. T. #2312 "Prisoners of Hope"

Nov. 1, 2022 

Zechariah 10-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

We have been reading about the 6 blessings upon Israel brought by the Messiah when He returns to reign as King. They will come because the people will look only to the Lord Jesus:

1. Hope. In 9:12, the Jews who were still prisoners of hope under Persia's control, but will be given a double portion of blessing, as the first-born son. The northern and southern tribes will be united into one nation of Israel. Messias, Messiah, (Mes-see'-as) refers to Christ as in the Greek language, found in John 1:41, where Andrew told his brother Simon Peter that he had found the Messiah, the Christ.
2. A bountiful land. The grain fields and vineyards will yield abundant crops when the Lord is asked. (9:17-10:1)
3. Deliverance from idolatrous practices in the past will come because they forsook Jehovah and turned to idols for blessings.
4. The Deliverer is the Messiah. (10:4) Their government will rest upon Christ and He will be their defense.
5. Restoration by the Messiah. He will call and gather the scattered Jews. Israel will be regenerated and repopulated.
6. National redemption. They will be the realization of the New Covenant. Jesus will keep His promises. He will strengthen Israel.

Paul called himself a prison of Christ Jesus. (Philemon1) Do we consider ourself a prisoner of Jesus Christ? Are we a prisoner of hope? As the world has us prisoner here, hold onto Jesus. He can deliver you from whatever has you in bondage. He came to set the captives free, free from the stronghold of sin, temptation, and worldliness.

[Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

LET IT GROW

When the Messiah came the first time to earth, it was not God's Plan B. the plan of redemption was settled in eternity, before there was ever a creation. God knew we would sin and need a Redeemer and Savior. We had no hope until Jesus became our Savior. When He returns, Jesus will bring peace. People will then worship Him, not self, idols, things, evil.

If you are a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, then you have hope of a better day coming-eternity with Him and loved ones. He will deliver us from this evil and hateful world. Our joy will be restored when we change citizenship. Are you ready?

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are our joy, peace, love, and hope.

We run into Your arms. How e need Your reassurance today!

You alone are Lord, Savior, Messiah, Redeemer, the Way, the Truth, the Life.

No other can provide for us as You do, Jesus.