Joe: Alright, so we have Zechariah 7. What's it about?

Bible Expert: Zechariah 7 is a continuation of Zechariah's prophecies. In this chapter, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Zechariah and is calling on them to repent and return to Him. He is reminding them of the importance of justice, mercy, and truth.

Joe: Wow, so that sounds serious. Are there any stories or characters here?

Bible Expert: Yes, there are some stories in this chapter. The first is about a group of people who came to inquire of the Lord. They asked Zechariah if they should continue to observe the fasts that they had been practicing for many years. The Lord answered them through Zechariah and said that they should not observe the fasts for the sake of their own pleasure but rather for the sake of justice, mercy, and truth.

Joe: Interesting, so it sounds like these people were just doing these fasts out of habit and not out of a true desire to seek God.

Bible Expert: Exactly. The Lord also speaks to the people of Israel in Zechariah 7 and tells them that they should not oppress the foreigners, widows, and orphans living among them. He also tells them to be generous to the poor and not to take advantage of them.

Joe: Alright, so it sounds like we have some clear messages here. Anything else?

Bible Expert: In the last part of the chapter, God speaks to the people of Israel and tells them that if they will turn back to Him and obey His commands, then He will pour out His blessings on them. He promises them peace, abundance, and prosperity.

Joe: Alright, so it sounds like if the people of Israel will turn back to God, then He will bless them in return. Got it. Anything else?

Bible Expert: That's it for Zechariah 7.