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"In the streets of Jerusalem"

Text: Zechariah 8:4

REBUILDING OF JERUSALEM

The first stage would be for the LORD to return to Zion. The second stage was to rebuild Jerusalem.

“Thus says the LORD of hosts:
‘Old men and old women shall again sit
In the streets of Jerusalem,
Each one with his staff in his hand
Because of great age.
The streets of the city
Shall be full of boys and girls
Playing in its streets.'”
Zechariah 8:3-4

1. “Thus says the LORD”

a) This was stated to give assurance.

b) This was a strongly affirming word.

2. An important description of old people

a) If a city had been devastated by war.

i) There would hardly by any old people.

ii) Many would have perished (both young and old).

b) The re-population of the city described symbolically.

i) The presence of old people (men and women).

ii) They would sit around in the streets to enjoy the city life and the sunshine.

iii) They may be so old they are walking around with a staff in their hands.

iv) They are “of great age” and yet they are still alive.

3. Another vital symbol

a) The streets of the city would be full of life.

b) The city streets would be thronged by children (boys and girls).

c) They would be happily playing in the streets.