ZEPHANIAH 1

ZEPHANIAH WARNS JUDAH OF GOD’S JUDGMENT

During the time of King Josiah, God gives Zephaniah a message detailing the destruction of Judah, focusing on the capital city of Jerusalem. Although Josiah was a steadfast leader, the kingdom of Judah remained unfaithful to God.

In stark contrast to the description of creation in Genesis 1, God describes all that He will remove from the Earth. God declares His judgment on Judah and plans to destroy all idol worship. Zephaniah says the Israelites will not live to reside in the houses they have built or taste the wine of the vineyards they have planted. Using language similar to Deuteronomy 28, Zephaniah reiterates that idea that the obedient will be blessed, and the unfaithful will be cursed.

Zephaniah uses intense apocalyptic imagery to describe the Day of the Lord, a time when God will bring His judgment upon Judah. God is warning rebellious people of the distress and anguish that awaits. It is later revealed that Babylon will be the power that overthrows Judah, but Zephaniah focuses on God’s role in orchestrating their demise.