Monday, August 17, 2015

Zephaniah, Overview

Godsway 66, Book 36 - Zephaniah 

Zephaniah, another of the "minor prophets," prophesied about the coming "Day of the Lord."  While not as graphic as Joel or Amos, Zephaniah emphasized that God will punish the unfaithful nations on a day of judgment.  After this, a remnant of God's faithful will enjoy peace and prosperity.

The greatest sins were idolatry and an unwillingness to follow God's teaching.  They were evident among both Judah and the surrounding nations that threatened to defeat Judah.  All would face God's punishment.  Interestingly, there is a special warning in Zephaniah for the wealthy, who believed that riches would allow them to ride out any changes.

Through these overwhelming punishments, God's chosen people would again recognize the power and glory of God, and they would return to be God's people.  They would follow God's laws and leave in peace.