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Here we have a glorious privilege mentioned, namely, a view or manifestation of a crucified Redeemer; and the gracious exercise that is consequential to this distinguishing and glorious privilege. "They shall mourn for Him." From the words we observe that all whose privilege it is to get a supernatural discovery of a crucified Redeemer will mourn for Him, as wounded and pierced for their sins.

I. THE GLORIOUS PRIVILEGE.

1. Though Christ is not now visible to the bodily eyes, yet such a sight of Him as is necessary in order to the exercise of faith upon Him, and a real participation of the benefits of His purchase is attainable by persons in this world.

2. A spiritual and saving sight of Christ as crucified is what all should be concerned to obtain when they are attending upon the ordinances of the Gospel, upon the dispensation of the Word and sacraments.

3. Such a sight of Christ as is necessary in order to the exercise of faith and repentance is an effect of the gracious operation of the Holy Spirit upon the heart of a sinner.

4. A spiritual manifestation of Christ is in a special manner necessary on a day of fasting and humiliation.

5. A saving manifestation of Christ is a rare and distinguishing privilege.

6. A saving manifestation is ever accompanied with godly sorrow for sin.

II. THE GRACIOUS EXERCISE.

1. Godly sorrow for sin supposes an inward and thorough change of heart, and mind, and nature.

2. It is real sorrow.

3. Such a sorrow as flows from a particular conviction of sin.

4. It is great sorrow.

5. It is evangelical sorrow. Application —

(1)  Both faith and repentance are fruits of the Spirit.

(2)  True repentance is a fruit of saving faith.

(3)  True faith is rare.

(4)  Formality in religion easily explained.

(D. Wilson, M. A.)

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KJV: And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.

WEB: It will happen in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.