Zechariah 1:3

Arabic Bible (GNA) Good News Arabic - 1993 (الترجمة العربية المشتركة)

فقالَ لي: قُلْ لهُم: إِرْجِعوا إليَّ، فأرجِـعَ إليكُم.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is God speaking through the prophet Zechariah. He tells people to turn back to Him, and promises that if they do, He will also return to them with His favor.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who stopped playing with you because of an argument. This verse is like your friend saying, 'If you come play with me again, I'll be your best friend forever.' It's God saying He wants to be close friends with us if we want it too.

Historical Background

Zechariah wrote this prophecy around 520 BC, during a time when the Jews were returning from exile in Babylon. The message was for those who had returned and were rebuilding Jerusalem and its temple under difficult circumstances.

Living It Out Today

A modern scenario could be someone who has been distant from their faith due to personal struggles or life's pressures. This verse encourages them to return to God, promising that He will welcome them back with open arms and renewed grace.

Topics

• repentance
• divine favor
• return to God
• promise of restoration
• faithfulness
• reconciliation

Related Verses

• Ezekiel 36:27
• Hosea 14:1-4
• Matthew 5:48
• Luke 15:7
• James 4:8

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Zechariah 1:3?

In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Zechariah. He addresses His people directly.

What does 'return' mean in this context?

'Return' means to turn back to God with repentance and faith, abandoning past wrongs and committing to follow Him.

How can we know if God has returned to us as He promises?

God's return is evidenced by a renewal of our spiritual life, a sense of His presence, and guidance in our lives as we seek Him.

Why did God need the people to return to Him first before promising to return to them?

This highlights the importance of human initiative in seeking a relationship with God. It emphasizes that while God is always available, we must take the step towards Him first.