11:6
This is a very severe verse, and see that it is directed at the people of the land. Everyone will be given into the hands of their neighbours and of the king, ie of the rulers. There is a large extent to which we see this coming true in the west. There is greater enmity between people groups, especially with identity politics. And rulers are becoming increasingly intrusive in our lives. In some other countries things are much, much worse, with violence between peoples, and violent oppression. We might think that God is being unfair here, but it is true to large degree that we get the leaders we deserve. We all need to take responsibility for ourselves.
11:7,8
This seems to demonstrate the problem with the people. Zechariah himself shepherded the flock, giving special attention to the oppressed of the flock. The two staffs signify what a good shepherd would do, favour and union. The Lord desires to bestow favour on His people and to bring unity. Zechariah even got rid of the “three shepherds”, presumably three bad rulers. So we see that Zechariah was not some other worldly mystic, he received the word of God and was involved in the practical running of the country. However, the flock detested him and Zechariah grew weary. There is an obvious parallel with Jesus here. He came and showed special care to the oppressed, but in the end the people detested Him and He was crucified. God does have a special concern for the poor and the oppressed, but we can often think that because someone is oppressed they are not sinners. All are sinners, the rich, the rulers, the poor and the oppressed. The only difference between the various groups is the extent to which they have had the power to demonstrate that sinfulness. If you don’t believe me just look at situations where there has been a revolution (violent or peaceful). Very soon you find exactly the same degree evil of appearing.
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