Zechariah Sermon Series: Sermon 36
6-1-25 – Jerry Mongello
Zechariah 13 – Part 2
Message Highlights
- Israel Updates:
- Misinformation: Claims that Trump and Netanyahu are divided on Hamas and Iran are false
- Palestinians are reportedly starving — the UN states that 100 trucks of aid have been looted by Hamas and could not enter Gaza
- Two young Israeli embassy staff members highlighted
- Midweek Bible Study: Led by Mary & Russ — Topic: Names of God
- Prayer Time
Message Recap
Last week, we began Zechariah 13 by reviewing verses 1 through 5. These verses depict God cleansing Israel from false prophets, false prophecy, and unclean spirits. Jesus proclaims the cleansing of Israel’s sins with living water. We discussed how, in this coming time, anyone who falsely prophesies in God’s name will be condemned—even by his own parents—indicating that Jesus, the Messiah-King, is reigning and the gift of prophecy has ceased.
Verses 4 and 5 affirm that prophecy will no longer be needed. People will not dress or identify as prophets because the one true Prophet, King, and Priest—Jesus Christ—has returned. We referenced 1 Corinthians 13, which reminds us that all spiritual gifts will cease except for love:
“Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease… For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.”
— 1 Corinthians 13:8–10 (NKJV)
Verse 6: Two Interpretations
Let’s now examine Zechariah 13:6:
“And one will say to him, ‘What are these wounds between your arms?’ Then he will answer, ‘Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.’” — Zechariah 13:6 (NKJV)
There are two main interpretations:
- Pagan Worshipper View
Some suggest this person is a false prophet or pagan worshipper who cut himself, as seen in 1 Kings 18:28. They interpret the “wounds” as self-inflicted during idol worship rituals. This ties back to verses 2–5 where false prophets are condemned and attempt to disguise themselves. - Messianic View (The Correct Interpretation)
The second and more accurate interpretation identifies the wounded man as Jesus. The wounds are from His scourging and crucifixion, received “in the house of His friends”—a reference to being rejected and betrayed by His own people. This emotional verse reveals the Messiah’s suffering and serves as a powerful image of His sacrifice.
This ties back to Zechariah 12:10:
“They will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son…”
What Does This Mean For Us?
Why does Christ’s suffering matter beyond the forgiveness of sins?
Hebrews 2:10–18 shows that Jesus shared in our humanity so that He could destroy death, offer us salvation, and sympathize with our struggles. He became our merciful and faithful High Priest, offering help in our times of temptation and pain.
Zechariah 13:6 also reveals a truth about human relationships—wounds often come from those closest to us. Have you been hurt by someone you love? Are you carrying that pain? Have you offered or sought forgiveness?
Jesus understands that pain. He carried it to the cross. He took not only our sin but also our pain and shame. He calls us to healing and reconciliation.
The story of Joseph (Genesis 50:18–21) mirrors this truth. Joseph’s brothers meant him harm, but God used it for good. Joseph chose to forgive, just as we are called to do.
Jesus’ Wounds in Scripture
Do Jesus’ scars remain? Scripture doesn’t explicitly say, but the Bible repeatedly affirms the depth of His suffering. Consider these passages:
- Isaiah 53:2–5 – He was despised, rejected, and pierced for our transgressions.
- Psalm 69:7–12 – He bore shame and rejection from His own family.
- John 1:1–13 – The Word became flesh but was not received by His own.
- Isaiah 50:4–7 – He offered His back to be struck and His face to be spat upon.
- Isaiah 52:13–15 – His appearance was marred beyond recognition.
- Philippians 2:5–11 – He humbled Himself to the point of death and was exalted by God.
- Luke 23:33–34 – He prayed for His executioners: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”
Final Reflection
Zechariah 13:6 reminds us not only of the Savior’s physical suffering but of the spiritual and emotional depth of His love. He bore the wounds from the hands of His friends—for our healing. He understands betrayal, pain, shame, and loss. But He also offers us peace, forgiveness, and restoration.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the wounded and risen King, and walk forward in the healing He freely gives.
