Focusing on the Facts
1. What is one reason there is injustice, conflict and chaos in the world? When will those problems be resolved (see p. 1)?
2.Identify the positive and negative elements of Christ’s return. How were they symbolically experienced in a vision by the apostle John (see p. 1)?
3.Why is God’s judgment difficult to comprehend (see p. 2)?
4.According to Jeremiah 31:3-4, why does God say He will restore Israel (see p. 3)?
5.In Zechariah 9:9, how does the divine conqueror come to His people (see p. 3)?
6.Identify the divine conqueror of Zechariah 9, and describe His character (v. 9; see p. 4).
7.How was the Messiah’s meekness expressed in general and specific terms (v. 9; see p. 4)?
8.Why do some Old Testament prophecies jump from one century to another in a single context (see p. 5)?
9.How is the Messiah’s reign over His earthly Kingdom described in verse 10 (see p. 6)?
10.What did God point to as verification that He would fulfill His promise to His people (see p. 6)?
11.How were covenants, or contracts, often made in the ancient Middle East? How and why did God alter that tradition in His covenant with Abraham (see p. 6-7)?
12.What encouragement does God offer His people in verses 11-12 (see p. 7)?
13.What historical insight does God use to encourage Israel in verse 13 (see p. 7-8)?
14.Of what was the Maccabean rebellion a preview (see p. 8)?
15.Who will protect Israel and enable them to subdue their enemies (see p. 8)?
16.Why is Israel likened to the sacrificial bowls and altar (v. 15; see p. 9)?
17.What is Zechariah’s response in verse 17 to the salvation promised in verse 16 (see p. 9)?
18.Although He first came in poverty and shame, how will Christ return (see p. 10)?
Pondering the Principles
1. It’s not difficult to recognize that there are many problems in the world. Unbelievers cite the evidence of injustice, conflict, pain, and tragedy as proof that there is no God. Rather than blaming God for sin like Adam did (Gen. 3:12), we need to acknowledge that man himself is the problem (vv. 17-19). When you next have the opportunity to answer a “What is this world coming to?” question, be sure to explain that the King of kings and Lord of lords is coming to set things right. Express to them your confident hope in a future where Christ actively reigns. Memorize 1 Peter 1:3-4: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (NASB). Pray for an opportunity to tell others about our “living hope.”
2. Are you letting the promise of Christ’s return effect your life in the present? If we know that God’s plan is to eliminate evil and bring His children into a perfect Kingdom, we should make sure our lives are reflecting that holy purpose. Why would we pursue sin if it is the object of His hatred? That is the issue Peter asked his readers to think through in 2 Peter 3:10-14. Meditate upon that passage and determine if your life-style is coinciding with God’ plan.
“This article originally appeared here at Bible Bulletin Board.”
