ZION​

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by David G. Rose

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     Written and published by Isaac Watts in 1707, one of the great hymns of the church was titled, “We’re Marching to Zion.”

     Come, we that love the Lord, and let our joys be known, 
     Join in a song with sweet accord, join in a song with sweet accord, 
     And thus surround the throne, and thus surround the throne.
     Chorus: We're marching to Zion, beautiful, beautiful Zion; 
     We're marching upward to Zion, the beautiful city of God.

     In the Bible, the word Zion sometimes refers to the Jews returning to the city of Jerusalem from captivity. Other times, the word Zion refers to the person and heart of God. Or on other occasions, the word Zion refers to the New Jerusalem that is coming down from Heaven.

     To better prepare for the following thoughts, please read Jeremiah 50:4-7.

     Geographically, Zion was one of the hills on which Jerusalem was built. King David captured it and it was then referred to as the City of David. The Lord loved Zion as declared in Psalm 87:2-3 NIV, “The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the other dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, city of God.” Later, Zion referred to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. 

     But in this study, we discuss Zion as the Temple not made with hands that comes from Heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1). It is the city of the great King, the New Jerusalem (Matthew 5:35). How do we get to the Zion that comes down from to Heaven?

     First, the road to Zion is a narrow way that few find. Jesus said in Matthew 7:13-14 NIV, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many entered through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.”

     The road to the pleasures of the world is wide and busy. Most people are only concerned with their daily life. They seek wealth and abundance of things that decay. They will reap a whirlwind.

     Second, the road to Zion is rough and difficult. There are many temptations and Satanic attacks that try to stop the traveler to Zion. And though the younger journeyer faces the greatest difficulties, no one is ever safe until they reach Zion.

     Third, no one finds the way to Zion on their own. Only the Holy Spirit can lead a soul to Zion. Jesus said in John 6:44 ESV, “No one comes to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him and I will raise him up in the last day.” And the Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:10 ESV, “These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.”

     May we be true seekers of God and His Holy City. What a day that will be!

     Next week: Pool of Bethesda
 

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