What happensPermalink
People from Bethel ask the priests and prophets whether to keep fasting over Jerusalem’s destruction. God asks whether their decades of fasting were for Him or themselves. He recalls the former prophets’ commands when Jerusalem prospered: judge fairly, show kindness and mercy, protect the vulnerable, and do not plot evil against one another. Their ancestors hardened their hearts against God’s law and prophets, bringing His judgment. God scattered them among the nations, leaving their land desolate.
Why it mattersPermalink
The question about fasting exposes a deeper issue: religious observance is no substitute for listening to God. Before the exile, God had repeatedly called His people to justice, mercy, and faithfulness, but they refused. The restored generation must not repeat their failure. Chapter 8 will finally answer the question about the fasts themselves.
Key versePermalink
Thus says the Lord of hosts, Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another.