Zephaniah

Zephaniah


Explain the historical background and purpose of the prophet: Yet another book written for the people of Judah warning them of future judgment of their sins. Zephaniah gives an all out plea for repentance. The good king Josiah was ruling but in the country there remained corruption and idolatry that was rather widespread–so Zephaniah’s warnings were founded.

What does the book show of the nature and character of God? It is entirely possible that part of the reform that did take place in Judah during Josiah’s reign (640-609) was due to this book. God goes the extra, extra, extra mile. The theme, salvation in "The Day of the Lord," also indicates that God still holds a future and a hope for his possession, the nation of Israel.

What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? All the books of the prophets have hope and promise. And while the judgements in this book are especially harsh, we have verses like these; "I will deal severely with all who have oppressed you . . . I will give glory and fame to my former exiles . . . on that day I will gather you together and bring you home again." Zeph 3:19-20. While not always obvious, you get the feeling, the hunch, in these later smaller books of the Messiah . . . These are not specific scriptures, but a feeling.