“And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all peoples; all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.” Zechariah 12:3

To properly answer this question, the time setting of Zechariah 12 must first be determined. 

Verse 12 states, “And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.”

His statement reveals that the entire chapter is prophetic of yet future events. The phrase “in that day” is repeated seven times throughout the chapter, in verses 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11 and 12. That “day” then is describing a significant time for Israel when it will be isolated, and the nations of the world will turn against it. 

In has been suggested that the phrase “a burdensome stone” refers to an ancient practice of testing young men. They would attempt to lift the largest stone possible as proof of their strength. However, in this case, the burden for the nations will be too great to overcome. 

Verse 2 says, “Behold, I [Jehovah] will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and against Jerusalem.” 

He continues in verses 8 and 9 saying, “In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem…And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.” 

Despite seeing the world currently turning against Israel, it is important to understand Israel’s role in God’s plan. His defense of this tiny nation means He has a purpose in preserving them. The Scriptures reveal that Jerusalem will become the avenue through which God’s kingdom will be administered for the blessing of all the world. 

In Zechariah 8:22,23, the same prophet explains Israel’s future role:

“Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the Lord. Thus saith the Lord of hosts; ‘In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.’” 

In Isaiah 2:2,3, the prophet Isaiah shares the same prophetic message: “And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths; for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”

Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1290: “Is the Jewish Nation Really God’s Chosen People?”
The history and destiny of the nation of Israel and their favor with God
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CQ Rewind Show Notes