Thus declares the Lord who stretches out the heavens, lays the foundation of the earth, and forms the spirit of man within him, “Behold, I am going to make Jerusalem a cup that causes reeling to all the peoples around; and when the siege is against Jerusalem, it will also be against Judah. It will come about in that day that I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples; all who lift it will be severely injured. And all the nations of the earth will be gathered against it.” (vv.1-3)
Here in our text the nation of Israel is pictured as the cup of God’s wrath, which will send the other nations around her reeling (v.2). Just as drunken men are overcome by alcohol, so the wicked will be overcome by divine judgment. Israel will also be an “immovable rock,” strong and secure (vv.3–5). God’s people will be a fire in dry grass, defeating their enemies as quickly as such a fire spreads (v.6).
In yesterday’s prophecy Israel was condemned for following the foolish shepherd, but now the nation is redeemed when the Good Shepherd returns. “On that day” the Lord will save, shield, fight, win, and pour out His Spirit. “On that day,” God plus the weakest person will be a mighty warrior.
And, by God’s grace, Israel will receive spiritual deliverance as well. They will “look upon” the Crucified One and grieve, responding in faith (v.10). Then, with their eyes opened to the truth, they will repent with sincere and godly sorrow finally seeing their Messiah, their immovable rock who stands for them.
Woe to the enemies of Israel, and those who support them (including the US). For if you stand against Israel you stand against God, and on "the day" of His return, be ground into powder.
The Truth: “And whoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” (Matthew 21:44)
