Minor Prophets · Old Testament

The Book of Zephaniah

The day of the Lord brings judgment, but God will rejoice over his restored people.

Author
The prophet Zephaniah
Date
c. 640–620 BC
Chapters
3
Genre
Minor Prophets

Summary

Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of King Josiah. He warns of the coming day of the Lord, a day of judgment on Judah's idolatry and complacency, and on the surrounding nations.

But the book ends with remarkable hope. God will purify a humble remnant, take away their punishment, and dwell among them. "The Lord your God is with you... he will rejoice over you with singing."

Outline

  1. Chapter 1 — The day of the Lord
  2. Chapter 2 — Judgment on the nations
  3. Chapter 3 — Jerusalem judged and restored

Key Themes

The day of the LordJudgmentHumilityRestorationGod's delight in his people

Key Verses

The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”

Start reading Zephaniah