Zechariah 9:9-10 — The Coming Messiah

Zechariah 9 contains a theological-historical paradox: the surrounding nations will be destroyed yet they will be included in the covenant people. The chapter references peace yet predicts a great war. The reason is that chapter 9 covers events that span the time of Alexander the Great to the Millennium.

The opening verses depict the Lord as a divine warrior, judging Israel’s enemies and protecting Jerusalem. In verses 1-8, Zechariah prophesied of the coming judgement on the nations around Israel through Alexander the Great. Nevertheless, even though the judgement is coming, God promised that some of the Philistines' will become part of God's people.

But how can the mortal enemies of Israel become part of God's people? That's what verse 9 is about, the arrival of the messianic King. The verse begins with an exhortation to rejoice. Jerusalem and its inhabitants, referred to as the “Daughter of Zion”, are encouraged to celebrate. The promised King, the Messiah, is righteous, just, and brings salvation to the people. This prophecy finds fulfillment in Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:5; John 12:15). His arrival is marked by humility (riding on a donkey), emphasizing a contrast to earthly kings who rode horses, an instrument of war, in pomp and power. After years of exile and disappointment, the people can trust in their righteous King to save them as well as to save all those who believe on Him.

Our King, Jesus, continues to bring righteousness, salvation, and hope to a broken world. Zechariah 9 bridges Old Testament prophecies with New Testament fulfillment, pointing to the Lord Jesus as the humble yet victorious King. The call to rejoice (Zechariah 9:9) reminds us to find joy even amid difficult circumstances. Our King, Jesus, brings righteousness and salvation. The imagery of the Lord Jesus riding on a donkey emphasizes His humility. As His followers, we’re called to serve our King and others in humility. This passage offers hope to those with unfulfilled expectations. Despite disappointments, God’s promises endure, and His plans unfold in His time.

Psalm 34:5
They looked to Him and were radiant,
And their faces were not ashamed.