This post goes along with our study Reading Twelve Old Testament Books. You can purchase the workbook here: Study Guide for Reading Twelve Old Testament Books.
Zephaniah: Coming Judgment Brings Coming Glory
The book of Zephaniah is the last of the 12 Minor prophets which brings judgment to a close. Zephaniah, whose name means, “defended by God, ” proclaims the Lord’s judgment on Judah, Jerusalem, the nations, and the whole earth. But, Zephaniah likewise announces the blessings of God on the faithful remnant of Judah and the nations. We’ve seen glimpses of God’s blessings on the faithful in the other prophets we’ve read but this book ends with the announcement that God will sing for joy over His people! Although God will bring judgment on the all people, there is hope. And hope does not disappoint.
Why God’s Judgment is Coming?
Zephaniah announces that God will bring judgment on all people. The question then arises WHY? The book of Zephaniah is not short on its lists of reasons . He starts with calling out the unrighteousness of Jerusalem. The arrogance in their hearts cries out, “the LORD will do no good or evil.” The people deny the providence of God over all things. They are among those who believe God created and then stepped back and let things run its course. They pay no attention to the fact that God judges those who deny Him and blesses those who rejoice in Him.
He then moves to the nations announcing their pride and arrogance in not heeding the voices of the prophets. The nations accept no instruction nor do they trust or draw near to God. We could go on but I believe we can sum up the question Why with one word, “PRIDE.” Pride is the starting point for every sin. It keeps us focused on self and blinds us to the truth. Pride keeps us from denying self and relying on and glorifying in God.
There is nothing new under the sun. The prophesy made in Old Testament times apply to our day. There are those who hear but do not heed. Arrogance and pride still stand tall in the hearts of men. Nothing much has changed, except through prophecy and the preaching and teaching of God’s word God has drawn His elect to Himself. There is a faithful remnant waiting and living by faith until the coming of the ay of the Lord. Jesus stands between you and I and God’s judgment!
Calling All People to Humility and Righteousness
|Gather yourselves together, yes, gather, O nation without shame, before the decree takes effect_the day passes like chaff_Before the burning anger of the LORD comes upon you, before the day of the LORD’S anger comes upon you.| Zephaniah 2:1
Time moves on. People eating and drinking, giving in marriage as if there will be no end. But one day at God’s appointed time, His wrath will go forth. Today is the day of God’s patience. He is calling for people to humble themselves and repent. We do not know the day nor the hour. Today is the day of salvation.
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