\\INTRODUCTION TO ZECHARIAH 12\\

This chapter contains a prophecy of the defence, protection, and
salvation of the church of God; and of the effusion of the Spirit; and
of the conversion of the Jews in the latter day. It begins with a title
and preface, describing the power of God, from the creation of the
heavens and earth, and soul of man, \\#Zec 12:1\\ then follows the
subject matter of the prophecy, in a way of judgment upon the enemies
of the people of God, and in a way of salvation to them. The judgments
on their enemies are signified by various metaphors; by Jerusalem's
being a cup of trembling, a burdensome stone, and a hearth, and torch
of fire to them, \\#Zec 12:2,3,6\\. The effects of which are to them
astonishment, madness, blindness, and utter destruction; and to the
people of God confidence in him, salvation from him, and strength and
protection by him, \\#Zec 12:4,5,7,8\\ and, at the same time that God
will destroy all the enemies of his people, he will pour out his Spirit
upon his chosen ones among the Jews. The consequence of which will be,
their faith in Christ, signified by looking to him whom they have
pierced; and their repentance towards God, expressed by mourning; and
this illustrated by mourning for an only and firstborn son,
\\#Zec 12:9,10\\ and which is further illustrated by the mourning for
Josiah in the valley of Megiddon; and by an enumeration of the
several families in Jerusalem, that should separately mourn on this
account, \\#Zec 12:11-14\\.