Zec 1:4 | KingComments | STEP | Their fathers did not listen to the former prophets ( ), who were the prophets before exile, and did not repent ( ; ). A bad example creates bad followers and that is what the prophet warns against. God identifies Himself here with the prophets who have spoken in His Name. He does not say that they did not listen to the prophets, but that they did not listen to Him. Not listening to God’s prophets equals not listening to God (cf. ).

‏ Zechariah 1:4

Do Not Follow the Evil

Their fathers did not listen to the former prophets (Zec 7:12), who were the prophets before exile, and did not repent (Jer 25:3-8; 2Kgs 17:13). A bad example creates bad followers and that is what the prophet warns against. God identifies Himself here with the prophets who have spoken in His Name. He does not say that they did not listen to the prophets, but that they did not listen to Him. Not listening to God’s prophets equals not listening to God (cf. Mt 10:40).