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"Return to Me"

Text: Zechariah 1:3

THE CALL TO RETURN TO GOD

This word from the Lord was extended by the prophets time and again. But that word had fallen on deaf ears. Thus, Israel went into captivity. The remnant was given the same word of admonition.

“Therefore say to them,
‘Thus says the LORD of hosts:
“Return to Me,” says the LORD of hosts,
“And I will return to you.”‘”
Zechariah 1:3

1. Examples of the call to return to the Lord

a) “Return, backsliding Israel” Jeremiah 3:12

b) “Return, O backsliding children” Jeremiah 3:14

c) “Return to Me” Jeremiah 4:1

Judah did not return to the Lord. It went into captivity for 70 years.

2. “Thus says the LORD of hosts”

a) This phrase was repeated in the same verse.

b) This was done for emphasis.

3. “Return to Me”

a) The onus was on the remnant.

b) They had seen the consequences of not giving heed to the LORD.

c) They must choose if they wanted to return to the LORD their God.

d) Much depended on the decision they would make. A lot was at stake!

4. “And I will return to you”

a) God will respond favourably.

b) He will show much mercy and grace to all who would return to Him.

c) He would be with the remnant as they re-settle in their old homeland. They would need the LORD’S provision and protection!