But now I will not deal with the remnant of this people as in the former days, declares the LORD of hosts.
God's jealousy here is not reproof for the Church's unfaithfulness, but His burning concern for her protection. The verb means affection and care, not suspicion; He burned with wrath against all enemies of His people while regarding His Church with singular love. His resolve was to defend the godly against the whole world if necessary.
AI summary
Commenting on Zechariah 8:1-23
Those who obey the call to rebuild the temple, who lay their hands to the work of God, may expect His encouragement and comfort. Only the employed for God receive His strengthening; those who avoid their fathers' disobedience not only break the curse but have it turned to blessing.
AI summary
Commenting on Zechariah 8:9-17
For the seed shall be prosperous,.... Being cast into the earth, it shall spring up again, and produce a large increase; whereas before, though they sowed much, it came to little, Hag 1:6, the vine shall give her fruit; be loaded with clusters, and produce large quantities of wine; whereas before there was a drought upon the new wine; and where there were wont to...