September 15, 2025
God's Justice and Mercy
Zephaniah 1-3
Laurens Doelman
Big Book Idea
The Lord sweeps, and he saves.
Key Verse | Zephaniah 1:2-3, 12
"I will utterly sweep away everything
from the face of the earth," declares the LORD.
"I will sweep away man and beast;
I will sweep away the birds of the heavens
and the fish of the sea,
and the rubble with the wicked.
I will cut off mankind
from the face of the earth," declares the LORD.
. . .
"At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps,
and I will punish the men
who are complacent,
those who say in their hearts,
'The LORD will not do good,
nor will he do ill.'"
Zephaniah 1-3
Chapter 1
1 The word of the LORD that came to Zephaniah the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah.
The Coming Judgment on Judah
2
“I will utterly sweep away everything
from the face of the earth,” declares the LORD.
3
“I will sweep away man and beast;
I will sweep away the birds of the heavens
and the fish of the sea,
and the rubble
1
1:3
Or stumbling blocks (that is, idols)
with the wicked.
I will cut off mankind
from the face of the earth,” declares the LORD.
4
“I will stretch out my hand against Judah
and against all the inhabitants of Jerusalem;
and I will cut off from this place the remnant of Baal
and the name of the idolatrous priests along with the priests,
5
those who bow down on the roofs
to the host of the heavens,
those who bow down and swear to the LORD
and yet swear by Milcom,
2
1:5
Or their king
6
those who have turned back from following the LORD,
who do not seek the LORD or inquire of him.”
The Day of the LORD Is Near
7
Be silent before the Lord God!
For the day of the LORD is near;
the LORD has prepared a sacrifice
and consecrated his guests.
8
And on the day of the LORD's sacrifice—
“I will punish the officials and the king's sons
and all who array themselves in foreign attire.
9
On that day I will punish
everyone who leaps over the threshold,
and those who fill their master's
3
1:9
Or their Lord's
house
with violence and fraud.
10
On that day,” declares the LORD,
“a cry will be heard from the Fish Gate,
a wail from the Second Quarter,
a loud crash from the hills.
11
Wail, O inhabitants of the Mortar!
For all the traders
4
1:11
Or all the people of Canaan
are no more;
all who weigh out silver are cut off.
12
At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps,
and I will punish the men
who are complacent,
5
1:12
Hebrew are thickening on the dregs [of their wine]
those who say in their hearts,
‘The LORD will not do good,
nor will he do ill.’
13
Their goods shall be plundered,
and their houses laid waste.
Though they build houses,
they shall not inhabit them;
though they plant vineyards,
they shall not drink wine from them.”
14
The great day of the LORD is near,
near and hastening fast;
the sound of the day of the LORD is bitter;
the mighty man cries aloud there.
15
A day of wrath is that day,
a day of distress and anguish,
a day of ruin and devastation,
a day of darkness and gloom,
a day of clouds and thick darkness,
16
a day of trumpet blast and battle cry
against the fortified cities
and against the lofty battlements.
17
I will bring distress on mankind,
so that they shall walk like the blind,
because they have sinned against the LORD;
their blood shall be poured out like dust,
and their flesh like dung.
18
Neither their silver nor their gold
shall be able to deliver them
on the day of the wrath of the LORD.
In the fire of his jealousy,
all the earth shall be consumed;
for a full and sudden end
he will make of all the inhabitants of the earth.
Chapter 2
Judgment on Judah's Enemies
1
Gather together, yes, gather,
O shameless nation,
2
before the decree takes effect
6
2:2
Hebrew gives birth
—before the day passes away like chaff—
before there comes upon you
the burning anger of the LORD,
before there comes upon you
the day of the anger of the LORD.
3
Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land,
who do his just commands;
7
2:3
Or who carry out his judgment
seek righteousness; seek humility;
perhaps you may be hidden
on the day of the anger of the LORD.
4
For Gaza shall be deserted,
and Ashkelon shall become a desolation;
Ashdod's people shall be driven out at noon,
and Ekron shall be uprooted.
5
Woe to you inhabitants of the seacoast,
you nation of the Cherethites!
The word of the LORD is against you,
O Canaan, land of the Philistines;
and I will destroy you until no inhabitant is left.
6
And you, O seacoast, shall be pastures,
with meadows
8
2:6
Or caves
for shepherds
and folds for flocks.
7
The seacoast shall become the possession
of the remnant of the house of Judah,
on which they shall graze,
and in the houses of Ashkelon
they shall lie down at evening.
For the LORD their God will be mindful of them
and restore their fortunes.
8
“I have heard the taunts of Moab
and the revilings of the Ammonites,
how they have taunted my people
and made boasts against their territory.
9
Therefore, as I live,” declares the LORD of hosts,
the God of Israel,
“Moab shall become like Sodom,
and the Ammonites like Gomorrah,
a land possessed by nettles and salt pits,
and a waste forever.
The remnant of my people shall plunder them,
and the survivors of my nation shall possess them.”
10
This shall be their lot in return for their pride,
because they taunted and boasted
against the people of the LORD of hosts.
11
The LORD will be awesome against them;
for he will famish all the gods of the earth,
and to him shall bow down,
each in its place,
all the lands of the nations.
12
You also, O Cushites,
shall be slain by my sword.
13
And he will stretch out his hand against the north
and destroy Assyria,
and he will make Nineveh a desolation,
a dry waste like the desert.
14
Herds shall lie down in her midst,
all kinds of beasts;
9
2:14
Hebrew beasts of every nation
even the owl and the hedgehog
10
2:14
The identity of the animals rendered owl and hedgehog is uncertain
shall lodge in her capitals;
a voice shall hoot in the window;
devastation will be on the threshold;
for her cedar work will be laid bare.
15
This is the exultant city
that lived securely,
that said in her heart,
“I am, and there is no one else.”
What a desolation she has become,
a lair for wild beasts!
Everyone who passes by her
hisses and shakes his fist.
Chapter 3
Judgment on Jerusalem and the Nations
1
Woe to her who is rebellious and defiled,
the oppressing city!
2
She listens to no voice;
she accepts no correction.
She does not trust in the LORD;
she does not draw near to her God.
3
Her officials within her
are roaring lions;
her judges are evening wolves
that leave nothing till the morning.
4
Her prophets are fickle, treacherous men;
her priests profane what is holy;
they do violence to the law.
5
The LORD within her is righteous;
he does no injustice;
every morning he shows forth his justice;
each dawn he does not fail;
but the unjust knows no shame.
6
“I have cut off nations;
their battlements are in ruins;
I have laid waste their streets
so that no one walks in them;
their cities have been made desolate,
without a man, without an inhabitant.
7
I said, ‘Surely you will fear me;
you will accept correction.
Then your
11
3:7
Hebrew her
dwelling would not be cut off
according to all that I have appointed against you.’
12
3:7
Hebrew her
But all the more they were eager
to make all their deeds corrupt.
8
Therefore wait for me,” declares the LORD,
“for the day when I rise up to seize the prey.
For my decision is to gather nations,
to assemble kingdoms,
to pour out upon them my indignation,
all my burning anger;
for in the fire of my jealousy
all the earth shall be consumed.
The Conversion of the Nations
9
For at that time I will change the speech of the peoples
to a pure speech,
that all of them may call upon the name of the LORD
and serve him with one accord.
10
From beyond the rivers of Cush
my worshipers, the daughter of my dispersed ones,
shall bring my offering.
11
On that day you shall not be put to shame
because of the deeds by which you have rebelled against me;
for then I will remove from your midst
your proudly exultant ones,
and you shall no longer be haughty
in my holy mountain.
12
But I will leave in your midst
a people humble and lowly.
They shall seek refuge in the name of the LORD,
13
those who are left in Israel;
they shall do no injustice
and speak no lies,
nor shall there be found in their mouth
a deceitful tongue.
For they shall graze and lie down,
and none shall make them afraid.”
Israel's Joy and Restoration
14
Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion;
shout, O Israel!
Rejoice and exult with all your heart,
O daughter of Jerusalem!
15
The LORD has taken away the judgments against you;
he has cleared away your enemies.
The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst;
you shall never again fear evil.
16
On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem:
“Fear not, O Zion;
let not your hands grow weak.
17
The LORD your God is in your midst,
a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing.
18
I will gather those of you who mourn for the festival,
so that you will no longer suffer reproach.
13
3:18
The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain
19
Behold, at that time I will deal
with all your oppressors.
And I will save the lame
and gather the outcast,
and I will change their shame into praise
and renown in all the earth.
20
At that time I will bring you in,
at the time when I gather you together;
for I will make you renowned and praised
among all the peoples of the earth,
when I restore your fortunes
before your eyes,” says the LORD.
Footnotes
[1] 1:3 Or stumbling blocks (that is, idols)[2] 1:5 Or their king
[3] 1:9 Or their Lord's
[4] 1:11 Or all the people of Canaan
[5] 1:12 Hebrew are thickening on the dregs [of their wine]
[6] 2:2 Hebrew gives birth
[7] 2:3 Or who carry out his judgment
[8] 2:6 Or caves
[9] 2:14 Hebrew beasts of every nation
[10] 2:14 The identity of the animals rendered owl and hedgehog is uncertain
[11] 3:7 Hebrew her
[12] 3:7 Hebrew her
[13] 3:18 The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain
Table of Contents
Introduction to Zephaniah
Timeline
Author and Date
Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of Josiah (640–609 B.C.), a Judean king who sought to reestablish acceptable worship practices (2 Kings 22:1–23:30).
Theme
The theme of Zephaniah is the approaching “day of the Lord.” This “day” is one of judgment against those who sin against God, and one of blessing for those who follow him.
Purpose and Background
In spite of having seen the destruction and exile of Israel (the northern kingdom), Judah (the southern kingdom) refuses to keep its covenant obligations to God. If Judah repents and abandons its evil ways, “perhaps” God will forgive (2:3). Regardless, God’s judgment will lead to renewal for Judah and other peoples (3:9–20).
The book declares judgment on many nations, all of which opposed God through opposition to his people. The last nation warned is Judah herself (3:1–7). God is displeased with those who claimed to be his own people.
Key Themes
- God will judge the whole earth (1:2–3, 17–18; 3:8), including Judah (1:4–16; 3:1–7) and her pagan neighbors (2:4–15) alike.
- God will bless his people when they return to their covenant relationship with him (3:11–20).
- God extends blessing and grace to all peoples and nations (3:9–10).
- Judgment and blessing occur both in the near future for the prophet and his audience (1:4–18; 2:3) and also in the more distant future (3:8–9, 11, 13–17).
- There is no such thing as a second-generation child of God. Every generation must accept God’s covenant, rather than relying on the faith of a previous generation.
Outline
The Near East at the Time of Zephaniah
c. 620 B.C.
Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of Josiah, when Egypt, Judah, and Babylonia were eroding the power of Assyria. Shortly after this time the Babylonians would replace the Assyrians as the dominant power in the Near East.
Fact: Rivers of Cush
The rivers of Cush mentioned in ch. 3 are the Blue Nile and the White Nile, the two major tributaries of the Nile River, which flows northward through Egypt to the Mediterranean Sea. The Blue Nile is 900 miles (1,450 km) long and begins its northward journey in Ethiopia. The White Nile is 2,300 miles (3,700 km) long, flowing all the way from Lake Victoria in Uganda.
Fact: Near the end
Near the end. Zephaniah was written during Josiah’s reign (640–609 B.C.), after Assyria had defeated Israel. The prophet warns that God will also judge Judah. Soon thereafter, Babylon invaded Judah, eventually destroying it in 586 B.C.
Fact: Mortar
The Mortar mentioned in 1:11 was probably one of Jerusalem’s market districts. It probably got its name from being located in a valley shaped like a mortar that is used for grinding things with a pestle.
Fact: Palestine
The name Palestine is actually derived from the word Philistine. The Philistines migrated to Palestine from Crete. They are also called Cherethites (see 1 Sam. 30:14).
Oracles against the Nations in the Prophets
| Isaiah | Jeremiah | Ezekiel | Joel | Amos | Obadiah | Jonah | Nahum | Zephaniah | Zechariah* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ammon | 49:1–6 | 25:1–7 | 1:13–15 | |||||||
| Arabia | 21:13–17 | |||||||||
| Assyria (Nineveh) | 10:5–19; 14:24–27 | (Nineveh) | (Nineveh) | |||||||
| Babylon | 13:1–14:23; 21:1–10; 46:1–47:15 | 50:1–51:64 | 2:9–12? | |||||||
| Damascus | 17:1–6? | 49:23–27 | 1:3–5 | 9:1 | ||||||
| Edom | 21:11–12 | 49:7–22 | 25:12–14 | 1:11–12 | 1–14? | |||||
| Egypt | 18:1–20:6 | 46:2–26 | 29:1–32:32 | |||||||
| Elam | 49:34–39 | |||||||||
| Ethiopia | 2:12–15 | |||||||||
| Gaza | 1:6–8 | 9:5 | ||||||||
| Kedar and Hazor | 49:28–33 | |||||||||
| Lebanon | 11:1–3? | |||||||||
| Moab | 15:1–16:14 | 48:1–47 | 25:8–11 | 2:1–3 | 2:8–11 | |||||
| Philistia | 14:28–32 | 47:1–7 | 25:15–17 | 3:4–8 | 2:5–7 | 9:6 | ||||
| Tyre Sidon | 23:1–18 | 26:1–28:19; 28:20–23 | 3:4–8 | 1:9–10 | 9:2–3 |
*Additional cities /states are denounced in 9:1–8: Hadrach, Aram (v. 1); Ashkelon, Ekron (v. 5); Ashdod (v. 6)
Zephaniah
The name Zephaniah means “Yahweh has hidden.” This is significant in regards to both the prophet’s background and his message. The name probably shows that Zephaniah’s parents were faithful followers of God. Zephaniah was also the great-great-grandson of the godly king Hezekiah (1:1). Like the prophets Joel and Amos, he prophesied about the coming “day of the LORD” when God would judge his enemies and bless his followers. Zephaniah urged the people of Judah to seek the Lord so that they would be “hidden” from his anger on that day (2:3). Though even God’s own people would be judged, at the same time the Lord would preserve a faithful remnant. The book of Zephaniah ends with the promise that, through this remnant, Israel will be restored and the knowledge of God will be brought to all nations. (Zephaniah 3:9–13)
1:1 Heading. This verse introduces the literary type, ultimate author, prophetic writer, and time period of the book. LORD is the personal name of Israel’s God, Yahweh or Jehovah. See note on Ex. 3:15. Cushi is a personal name in Jer. 36:14, yet it may also refer to a people group (the Cushites, also known as Ethiopians). Hezekiah. A godly king who ruled c. 715–687 B.C. The inclusion of his name may mean that Zephaniah was related to him. Josiah, a godly Judean king who ruled 640–609, reestablished the worship of Yahweh after many years of apostasy (2 Kings 22:1–23:30). Amon was an evil king of Judah (2 Kings 21:19–26).
Fact: Near the end
Near the end. Zephaniah was written during Josiah’s reign (640–609 B.C.), after Assyria had defeated Israel. The prophet warns that God will also judge Judah. Soon thereafter, Babylon invaded Judah, eventually destroying it in 586 B.C.
Zeph. 1:2 sweep away. Completely remove or destroy (compare 1 Sam. 15:6; Jer. 16:5). Who and what will be swept away is specified in Zeph. 1:4–6.
Zeph. 1:3 The listing of man and beast . . . the birds . . . and the fish, terms that occur in the creation account (Gen. 1:20, 24–25, 26–28), highlights the totality of destruction. God, the Creator of everything, will destroy everything due to the sin of mankind, who is creation’s representative.
Zeph. 1:4 Judah alone remained to serve as God’s kingdom of priests (see Ex. 19:5–6; 1 Pet. 2:9–10) after Israel was exiled to Assyria in 732, 722, 701, and 671 B.C. Yet the presence of a righteous king such as Josiah (Zeph. 1:1) was not enough to stop God’s judgment against Judah when other officials (v. 8; 3:3–5) and the people (1:9–12) continued to sin. Baal (literally, lord, master) is the Canaanite storm god whom Israel was prone to worship (1 Kings 18). The term idolatrous priests is used only of pagan priests (compare 2 Kings 23:5).
Zeph. 1:5 Host of the heavens refers to the sun and star gods worshiped by the Assyrians and Canaanites (Deut. 4:19). Milcom is the god of the Ammonites (1 Kings 11:5).
Zeph. 1:2–6 Judgment Coming against Judah. God first directs his attention against all living beings (vv. 2–3). He then addresses Judah, represented by their capital, Jerusalem (vv. 4–6).
Zeph. 1:7 The people are commanded to be silent, a sign of respect or fear (Amos 6:10; 8:3). The day of the LORD is the coming day in which God will judge his enemies (compare Joel 1:8–3:8) and bless his followers (Zeph. 3:9–20). The sacrifice will be prepared by God himself, not given to him, as is customary. The sinners will be the sacrifice.
1:7–9 Day of Sacrifice and Punishment. After an announcement of the day of the Lord (v. 7), practitioners of specific evil deeds are warned (vv. 8–9).
Zeph. 1:9 Leaps over the threshold is a pagan practice that shows respect for a god (see 1 Sam. 5:4–5). Violence and fraud are not the results of true worship (compare Gen. 6:11–12).
Fact: Mortar
The Mortar mentioned in 1:11 was probably one of Jerusalem’s market districts. It probably got its name from being located in a valley shaped like a mortar that is used for grinding things with a pestle.
Zeph. 1:12 The LORD will not do good, nor . . . ill. These men do not deny God’s existence, but they deny that he cares and acts within his creation. Their attitude rejects a key biblical truth: God is constantly active in history.
Zeph. 1:13 Goods . . . houses . . . vineyards belong to the rich and powerful. Those who can afford their own dwellings and lands will lose everything. they shall not inhabit them. Because of their sin, God will not allow them to enjoy the rewards of their work.
Zeph. 1:14 God’s day is near and hastening fast. The people need to respond quickly (v. 7).
Zeph. 1:15 Day of wrath is described by a list of frightening terms. Many of these occur along with appearances of God on other occasions where God treats his people as if they were his enemy (e.g., Ex. 19:16–19).
Zeph. 1:17 Instead of walking in God’s guidance, Judah will walk like the blind. They will stagger because of spiritual blindness. blood . . . like dust . . . like dung. Though blood carries life (Lev. 17:11), it will be treated as useless (compare 1 Kings 14:10; Zech. 9:3).
1:10–18 The Coming Wrath. A list of punishments is decreed against Jerusalem and its inhabitants (vv. 10–16) and against all humanity (vv. 17–18). Verses 10–11 mention specific neighborhoods in Jerusalem.
Zeph. 1:18 Neither their silver nor their gold will buy them out of trouble (see vv. 11, 13). God’s jealousy means that he cherishes his unique position in the affections of his people. Faithfulness is the foundation of his covenant with them (Ex. 20:3).
Zeph. 2:2 When grain is winnowed, the light outer husk is allowed to blow away. It is worthless for human or animal food. Like chaff refers here either to the quickly coming day of the anger of the LORD or to the quick departure of people who abandon God.
2:1–3 Repentance Is Still Possible. Although sin is a universal human problem, God will show grace if his people repent. And yet, Israel’s actions demonstrate that they are not covenant followers (shameless nation).
Zeph. 2:3 Rather than abandoning God, Judah is called to seek diligently for him (compare 1:6; Ps. 27:8; 105:3–4; Isa. 51:1). all you humble of the land. Not everyone has abandoned God. Righteousness is correct living in relation to God and humanity (see Isa. 1:21). Considering the magnitude of their sin, perhaps highlights God’s grace and sovereignty. you may be hidden. Humble, righteous people may be protected when God’s judgment falls on the rest of the nation (compare Ex. 9:6, 26; 10:23; 12:23).
Zeph. 2:4 Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Ekron are four of the five Philistine city-states, located on the Mediterranean coastal plain. These opponents of Israel will soon be defeated.
Zeph. 2:5 The seacoast indicates the location of the Philistines, from which the name “Palestine” is derived. They lived to the southwest of Judah. They are also called Cherethites (1 Sam. 30:14), which shows their historical links with Crete.
Fact: Palestine
The name Palestine is actually derived from the word Philistine. The Philistines migrated to Palestine from Crete. They are also called Cherethites (see 1 Sam. 30:14).
Zeph. 2:6–7 The term remnant shows two sides of God’s relationship with his people. His judgment will be so severe that only a few survivors (a “remnant”) will remain (v. 9; 3:13; Isa. 17:6). All hope is not lost, however, since those few refugees will continue the existence of God’s people. God will be mindful of Judah, taking note of their need and restoring the blessings they have given up (Zeph. 3:20). pastures . . . shepherds. After the Philistine cities have been destroyed, the area will be repopulated by God’s people (2:7), who will live in peace.
Zeph. 2:8 These verbal taunts and revilings (3:18; Isa. 43:28) against God’s people were by two of Israel’s longtime enemies to the east, Moab and the Ammonites. These nations descended from Lot through his sinful relationship with his daughters (Gen. 19:30–38).
Zeph. 2:9 As I live strengthens an oath that God makes. His own existence is the surest thing possible (Isa. 49:18). For people whose livelihood depends on agriculture, it would be devastating to be overrun by nettles or weeds (see Prov. 24:30–31) and salt pits.
Zeph. 2:11 Awesome describes Israel’s God, who causes fear in his opponents’ hearts (Ex. 15:11; 34:10). He moves against all the gods of the earth. Many nations believed their gods needed to be fed by their offerings. God will famish them, causing them to waste away (compare Isa. 10:16; 17:4). Instead of worshiping these powerless idols, foreigners will bow down to the God of Israel.
Zeph. 2:12 Cushites are Ethiopians and other northeastern African peoples (3:10; Isa. 11:11). The reference may include Egypt, since Cushite kings sometimes ruled Egypt.
Zeph. 2:13 God will stretch out his hand, an image indicating power and control (compare Gen. 16:12; Isa. 28:2), against his people’s northern enemy, Assyria. The Assyrians conquered much of the Near East, including Judah’s sister nation of Israel (see 2 Kings 17).
Zeph. 2:14 The owl and the hedgehog represent two of the “inhabitants” of what used to be a major city. Humans will be gone; animals and birds will take their place. The underlying cedar work of their buildings (compare 1 Kings 6:9; 7:2) will be exposed from neglect.
Zeph. 2:15 The Assyrian capital, Nineveh, formerly known as an exultant city, will be deprived of its safety and security. In its pride (v. 10; 3:11) Nineveh arrogantly boasted, “I am, and there is no one else.” This phrase must be reserved for God alone (see Ex. 20:3; Isa. 45:6). Such pride will be punished. Anyone who sees the destruction of Nineveh hisses (compare Jer. 19:8) and shakes his fist. These are not acts of aggression, but of horror and amazement at how the mighty have fallen.
Oracles against the Nations in the Prophets
| Isaiah | Jeremiah | Ezekiel | Joel | Amos | Obadiah | Jonah | Nahum | Zephaniah | Zechariah* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ammon | 49:1–6 | 25:1–7 | 1:13–15 | |||||||
| Arabia | 21:13–17 | |||||||||
| Assyria (Nineveh) | 10:5–19; 14:24–27 | (Nineveh) | (Nineveh) | |||||||
| Babylon | 13:1–14:23; 21:1–10; 46:1–47:15 | 50:1–51:64 | 2:9–12? | |||||||
| Damascus | 17:1–6? | 49:23–27 | 1:3–5 | 9:1 | ||||||
| Edom | 21:11–12 | 49:7–22 | 25:12–14 | 1:11–12 | 1–14? | |||||
| Egypt | 18:1–20:6 | 46:2–26 | 29:1–32:32 | |||||||
| Elam | 49:34–39 | |||||||||
| Ethiopia | 2:12–15 | |||||||||
| Gaza | 1:6–8 | 9:5 | ||||||||
| Kedar and Hazor | 49:28–33 | |||||||||
| Lebanon | 11:1–3? | |||||||||
| Moab | 15:1–16:14 | 48:1–47 | 25:8–11 | 2:1–3 | 2:8–11 | |||||
| Philistia | 14:28–32 | 47:1–7 | 25:15–17 | 3:4–8 | 2:5–7 | 9:6 | ||||
| Tyre Sidon | 23:1–18 | 26:1–28:19; 28:20–23 | 3:4–8 | 1:9–10 | 9:2–3 |
*Additional cities /states are denounced in 9:1–8: Hadrach, Aram (v. 1); Ashkelon, Ekron (v. 5); Ashdod (v. 6)
Zeph. 3:3 The city’s officials (1:8; 1 Chron. 28:1) and judges (Ex. 18:21–22) are like ferocious roaring lions and evening wolves. Instead of guarding the flock, they devour it.
Zeph. 3:4 Religious officials are also condemned, both prophets and priests.
Zeph. 3:5 Unlike the human leaders, God always shows that he is righteous by not breaking the law (Ezek. 18:5–9). He shows forth his justice by seeing that all receive fair treatment (compare Ex. 23:6).
Zeph. 3:1–7 God’s people cannot think that they will emerge unscathed on the day of the Lord. If they sin (vv. 1–4) and are shameless (v. 5), they are also held accountable, especially as they lack repentance (vv. 6–7).
Zeph. 3:7 God calls Jerusalem to fear, that is, to have respectful awe at his power (2:11; Ex. 14:31). This involves a willingness to accept correction (contrast Zeph. 3:2) as evidence of their fear of God (Prov. 10:17). If they obey, they will not experience God’s judgment: your dwelling would not be cut off.
2:4–3:8 Nations Warned. As in Amos 1:3–2:3, this passage first focuses on Israel’s neighbors and enemies (Zeph. 2:4–15), whom Judah would have happily joined in criticizing. Then the prophet addresses Judah itself (3:1–7). They are just as sinful before the same just God.
Zeph. 3:8 The people are called to wait for God, not for possible blessing (Isa. 30:18) but for coming judgment. This time it will not be against Judah alone, since he will gather (Zeph. 3:18–20) all nations of the earth for their judgment.
Zeph. 3:9 In that day, God will change the speech of the peoples gathered to be punished (Isa. 6:5–7). The nations had polluted speech, for they worshiped pagan gods. Now they will have pure speech (compare Ps. 24:4), cleansed to call upon the name of the LORD in worship (Gen. 4:26) and to serve him. This worship is universal, done by all, and unanimous, “with one accord” (compare 1 Kings 22:13).
Zeph. 3:10 Israelite exiles will come home from beyond the rivers of Cush (1:1; 2:12; Isa. 18:1). See note on Zeph. 2:12. True worshipers will come to Jerusalem, whether from east or west.
Zeph. 3:11 Jerusalem’s shame (Isa. 54:4) is over, even though it was deserved because of the people’s wickedness (Zeph. 3:1–4, 7). They had rebelled against what they knew was right (Hos. 8:1). They were dominated by proudly exultant ones, haughty, wealthy people (Zeph. 1:8–13) who thought they needed nothing from God. Sadly, this contempt was shown in God’s earthly dwelling place, his holy mountain, Zion (Obad. 16), the site of the temple.
Zeph. 3:12 God will especially provide a place for the humble and lowly (2:3). Unlike the arrogant (3:11), they know they are in need, so they seek refuge in his name (see Isa. 57:13).
Zeph. 3:13 God’s people will no longer commit sins such as injustice (v. 5), lying (Ezek. 13:6–9), and a deceitful tongue (Jer. 14:14).
Zeph. 3:14 The defiled city and nation (v. 1) will again be called the beloved daughter of Zion (Isa. 62:11). Zion is an alternative name for Jerusalem, the city of David (2 Sam. 5:7) and home of the temple (Ps. 9:11). Since all the exiles will be home, Jerusalem will again be capital of all Israel. Full reunion of the northern and southern kingdoms will occur.
Zeph. 3:15 Rejoicing is appropriate because of the presence of the Lord, the real King of Israel, among his people. The human kings of Israel and Judah served only as representatives of Israel’s true ruler, who blesses with his presence those who repent and return to him.
Zeph. 3:17 The previously weakened nation is in the presence of the mighty one (Deut. 10:17; Ps. 24:8; Isa. 10:21). Instead of their fleeing in the face of danger (Zeph. 1:14), God can save his people from it (Ex. 14:30). God himself will rejoice over you with gladness. God’s personal delight in them bursts forth in joyful celebration: he will exult over you with loud singing.
Zeph. 3:19 God will act on behalf of all his people who have suffered under exile. He will save the lame (Mic. 4:6–7) as a shepherd helps his sheep.
Zeph. 1:7–3:20 The Day of the Lord. The rest of Zephaniah’s prophecy discusses the “day of the Lord.” This “day” brings judgment on the wicked (1:7–3:8) and hope for the faithful (3:9–20). It affects not only God’s covenant nation (1:8–13; 2:1–3; 3:1–7) but others as well (1:14–18; 2:4–15). It includes immediate, historical fulfillment (2:4–15) and also points toward the distant future (1:14–18; 3:8–13; Acts 17:31; 2 Pet. 3:10). On the theme of the “day of the Lord,” see note on Amos 5:18–20; and The Day of the Lord in the Prophets.
3:9–20 Anticipation of Hope. God the judge is also God the gracious. He intends for the nations and Judah to turn to him (vv. 9–13). This will cause rejoicing (vv. 14–17), because God alone has accomplished salvation (vv. 18–20).
Zeph. 3:20 God will restore his scattered people. Instead of being shamed for their sin, they will be renowned and praised (Deut. 26:19) because of the gracious salvation of God.
Introduction to Zephaniah
Timeline
Author and Date
Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of Josiah (640–609 B.C.), a Judean king who sought to reestablish acceptable worship practices (2 Kings 22:1–23:30).
Theme
The theme of Zephaniah is the approaching “day of the Lord.” This “day” is one of judgment against those who sin against God, and one of blessing for those who follow him.
Purpose and Background
In spite of having seen the destruction and exile of Israel (the northern kingdom), Judah (the southern kingdom) refuses to keep its covenant obligations to God. If Judah repents and abandons its evil ways, “perhaps” God will forgive (2:3). Regardless, God’s judgment will lead to renewal for Judah and other peoples (3:9–20).
The book declares judgment on many nations, all of which opposed God through opposition to his people. The last nation warned is Judah herself (3:1–7). God is displeased with those who claimed to be his own people.
Key Themes
- God will judge the whole earth (1:2–3, 17–18; 3:8), including Judah (1:4–16; 3:1–7) and her pagan neighbors (2:4–15) alike.
- God will bless his people when they return to their covenant relationship with him (3:11–20).
- God extends blessing and grace to all peoples and nations (3:9–10).
- Judgment and blessing occur both in the near future for the prophet and his audience (1:4–18; 2:3) and also in the more distant future (3:8–9, 11, 13–17).
- There is no such thing as a second-generation child of God. Every generation must accept God’s covenant, rather than relying on the faith of a previous generation.
Outline
The Near East at the Time of Zephaniah
c. 620 B.C.
Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of Josiah, when Egypt, Judah, and Babylonia were eroding the power of Assyria. Shortly after this time the Babylonians would replace the Assyrians as the dominant power in the Near East.
Fact: Rivers of Cush
The rivers of Cush mentioned in ch. 3 are the Blue Nile and the White Nile, the two major tributaries of the Nile River, which flows northward through Egypt to the Mediterranean Sea. The Blue Nile is 900 miles (1,450 km) long and begins its northward journey in Ethiopia. The White Nile is 2,300 miles (3,700 km) long, flowing all the way from Lake Victoria in Uganda.
Zephaniah
The name Zephaniah means “Yahweh has hidden.” This is significant in regards to both the prophet’s background and his message. The name probably shows that Zephaniah’s parents were faithful followers of God. Zephaniah was also the great-great-grandson of the godly king Hezekiah (1:1). Like the prophets Joel and Amos, he prophesied about the coming “day of the LORD” when God would judge his enemies and bless his followers. Zephaniah urged the people of Judah to seek the Lord so that they would be “hidden” from his anger on that day (2:3). Though even God’s own people would be judged, at the same time the Lord would preserve a faithful remnant. The book of Zephaniah ends with the promise that, through this remnant, Israel will be restored and the knowledge of God will be brought to all nations. (Zephaniah 3:9–13)
The Day of the Lord in the Prophets
Listen to the Podcast
Listen NowDive Deeper | Zephaniah 1-3
Imagine being trapped in sin and willfully blind to your entrapment. Now imagine a God-fearing speaker who is widely known giving a sermon on God's imminent judgment: his anger and destruction of a sinful people. At first, you nod your head. You like what you're hearing. You tell yourself, yes, God should take out those sinners. And then imagine this speaker pointing to you. The picture he has been painting is not just for those other people you thought were God's enemies. The picture is more like a mirror, and you're looking straight at yourself. Would you react out of anger or denial? Or would you turn away from your sin and turn back to God?
This is what it must have been like for Israel to hear Zephaniah's words. I don't know about you, but Zephaniah is a hard read for me. How do I perceive God's character when the verses about his judgment and his anger seem so harsh? I have to remind myself that God is both loving and just. He's deeply offended by sin, and he promises to deal with our sin. Sin is dirty. As sinners, our sin makes us dirty, too. Zephaniah warns us that God is going to come in with his broom, sweep the world, and clean out all the filth. Now, if that were the end of the story, things would look pretty grim for you and me. I hope you take a moment to thank God that he didn't leave us in our sin!
Zephaniah finishes on a triumphant note. There is so much hope for us here in chapter 3! We see a God who has the power to save. He changes us, removes the dirt from us, and makes us clean. You and I know that this is only accomplished through the finished work of Jesus. But wait, there's more. The end of Zephaniah shows us that God doesn't just give us new life, he gives it abundantly! After he's given us a new identity, he invites us to have a party. And he's singing and dancing right along with us!
This month's memory verse
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (NIV)
– Matthew 11:28-30
Discussion Questions
1. What is your view of God? Take some time to think about his justice, his anger, and his jealousy. Think about his love for you, his tenderness, and his mercy. Take some time, too, to express your gratitude and your praise to him.
2. How do you view yourself? Do you think of yourself as a child of God (read and meditate on John 1:12 and Ephesians 1:18-19)? Take some time to talk to God about whom he has made you to be and what his purpose is for you.
3. Is there an ongoing sin issue that you need to confess to the Lord and to others? If you are experiencing consequences for your sin, do you trust that the Lord disciplines us because he loves us and not because he wants to punish us?