Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord
Nations meeting for prayer
A scene like this has never yet been witnessed upon the earth.
The prophecy was partially fulfilled when, from the time of the rebuilding of the temple to the coming of the Saviour, a more than usual number of Gentile proselytes from the nations around sought admission into the Jewish Church, and attended the annual festivals.
I. The object of this gathering of the nations. “To pray.” The time is coming when the nations will crowd to the feast of devotion. The result of the awakening of the nations will be a universal movement for concentrated prayer.
II. The universality of this gathering of the nations for prayer. They are described as many cities, strong nations, and all languages. Isaiah, wrapt in the vision of the future, beholds all the tribes of mankind, instigated by one common and irresistible impulse, flocking along the road to Zion, panting to be within its holy walls, and to pour out their prayers in her courts.
III. The promptitude of their decision. This heaven-originated movement for universal prayer will be felt to be a matter demanding immediate attention. “Let us go speedily.” When the Spirit is poured out from on high, all the speed and promptitude with which men pursue inferior ends will be consecrated to religion. Universal man will feel it his first duty to serve God.
IV. The personal character of this movement. No mighty movement takes place among masses of mankind until individuals have been moved. The world is but the aggregate of single individuals. Every individual must act his part. If men smother the enkindled fires of ardent devotion in their own breasts, till they see the zeal of others manifested, that day of prayer for all nations will never dawn. Every man is to invite to prayer, and at the same time resolve for himself. Then seek to be distinguished as a devotional Christian--a man of prayer. Then you will seek the society of men like-minded with yourself, and thus the holy flame will be borne onward, till every soul is enkindled, the Church revived, and the world saved. (Evangelical Preacher.)
God everywhere for those who seek Him
1. We are here reminded of our high and distinguishing privileges, as subjects of the Christian economy, in relation to the outward institutions of religion, and all that is commanded in the worship and service of God. When we would offer our devotions in His presence, we need no longer travel from one city to another, ascending to the house of the Lord. Wherever we seek Him, He is equally near, and equally accessible. Great and important purposes were once attained by the selection of a definite abode, wherein to place the sensible demonstrations of His majesty. It was in accordance with the infantile condition of the human mind on the great subject of religion. It repressed the tendency to mingle with the idol worship of the surrounding nations. It secured the permanency of the ordinances of the true God, till the coming of Messiah. By the final cessation of such services, soon after the death of Jesus, it marked that the Messiah had appeared, that the fulness of the times had been accomplished.
2. We are led to reflect upon that singular and elevated relation we now personally sustain to Him who was once known and worshipped only under the appellation of the God of Abraham. We have come to the family and household of the saints. This incorporation of the idolatrous heathen with the seed of the promise--this accession of the Gentiles to the Church--while it presents a subject of gratitude and wonder, is fitted also to expand our sentiments and to confirm our faith; and it leads us to anticipate a day when the Gospel shall universally prevail.
3. An interesting and attractive picture of a period of spiritual prosperity.
(1) The period thus described is marked by the diffusion of the spirit of prayer.
(2) Under the aspect of unity and mutual cooperation.
(3) Signalised by the prevalence of activity, energy, and zeal. “Let us go speedily. Let us go to seek the Lord of hosts.”
(4) The last characteristic of the period so depicted is the inseparable and intimate connection of all its other features with the decisiveness of individual piety. “I will go also.”
4. Apply these reflections to purposes of immediate and practical utility. (R. S. M’All, LL. D.)
Spiritual prosperity described
The text is part of the answer given to the question asked in Zechariah 7:2-3.
1. There are many false notions abroad respecting religious prosperity--crowded Churches--forms in the aisles--full exchequer; such things are taken by some as a sure sign of a Church’s vitality. Flying here and there--doing this, that, and the other in three minutes, and making a great noise, are looked upon by some as signs of saintship, and indications of true religious prosperity. And they may be, but not necessarily so; because outward manifestation is not always a sign of true strength. But we have true signs, unmistakable signs, described in the text.
I. Delight in prayer. “Let us go speedily to pray before the Lord.”
1. Thus there is a gathering together. It is a regular prayer meeting, and it is in answer to united prayer that blessings come. Illustrations: Day of Pentecost. Liberation of Peter. And it is only when Churches feel the importance of this that a true revival comes.
2. Not only must we pray, hut we must seek the Lord as well--give God no rest until He answers prayer.
II. Harmony and cooperation. “And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying,” etc. When will the different Churches of the different denominations learn the importance of united prayer? When shall we have done with our little differences and distinctions, and kneel as one family round the throne? God speed the day.
III. A spirit of zeal. “Let us go speedily.”
1. There will be no lagging behind. It is not, Let us have a prayer meeting tomorrow; let us turn unto the Lord soon; but, Let us do it now.
IV. Personal dedication. “I will go also.”
1. It is no uncommon thing for people to ask others to do what they don’t like to engage in themselves. How inspiring it is to hear the exhortation, “Do this, and I will do it, too” “You go and pray before the Lord; I will accompany you.” When this spirit is actuating the members of a Church, the result will be surely seen--in the earnestness and goodwill which exist--sinners saved--church roll increasing--joy in heaven--comment of the world. “Behold how good and pleasant a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” (Christian World Pulpit.)
Revival
Suggesting the benefits of a spiritual revival.
1. That the possession of religious life awakens interest in others. “And the inhabitants, etc., shall go,” etc.
2. That a revived religious life sets value on prayer. “Let us go to pray before the Lord.”
3. This revived life realises the importance and value of time. “Let us go speedily.”
4. Revived life constrains us to seek companionship. “Let us go.” Christians are gregarious.
5. Revived spiritual life ensures a powerful influence over our companions. They said, “We will go with you.” (J. H. Snell.)