The command to rejoice

The rebirth and restoration of the people of Israel will ultimately lead to their “return to the Promised Land.” Today’s passage sings of the joy that accompanies that return: “Shout for joy, daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, Israel! Rejoice and triumph with all your heart, daughter of Jerusalem!” (v 14). Jerusalem will rejoice from the depths of her heart. Words with the same meaning: “shout for joy,” “shout,” “rejoice,” and “triumph,” are used four times, showing how great this joy is.

The reason of joy

In verses 15-17, five reasons for joy are given. (1) “The Lord has taken away His judgments against you” (v 15). Israel’s sins have been removed, and God’s judgment has been taken away. Therefore, the people of Israel rejoice. (2) “He has cleared away your enemies” (v 15). Israel’s enemies have been destroyed by the Lord. (3) “The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst” (v 15). The Lord will dwell in Jerusalem in a visible way as King and will rule the whole world from there. Jeremiah also prophesied the same: “‘And it shall be in those days when you become numerous and are fruitful in the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘they will no longer say, “The ark of the covenant of the Lord.” And it will not come to mind, nor will they remember it, nor miss it, nor will it be made again. At that time they will call Jerusalem “The Throne of the Lord,” and all the nations will assemble at it, at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord; and they will no longer follow the stubbornness of their evil heart’” (Jer 3:16-17). (4) “You will no longer fear disaster. On that day it will be said to Jerusalem: ‘Do not be afraid, Zion; Do not let your hands fall limp.’” (v 15-16). Israel will no longer need to fear its enemies. They will be completely freed from anxiety and fear. (5) “The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will rejoice over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy” (v 17). God Himself will delight in fellowship with the people of Israel. These are the five reasons why the people of Israel should rejoice. We who believe in the Lord Jesus are also commanded to rejoice. Those who rejoice now will continue to rejoice, and the day will come when that joy is made complete. “Rejoice always” (1 Thess. 5:16).