Zephaniah Bible Study Notes Chapter 1

8/17/2012

Zephaniah 1

 -This book written in the time of Josiah, king of Judah, predicts the destruction of the earth and all things in the great day of the LORD as the wrath of God is poured out on a rebellious, stagnant, and idolatrous creation. Yet in the end there is given optimism for the remnant who believes in the day of hope (Zephaniah 3:8-20).

-This prophecy has relevance to both the near future of his time as they were about to be invaded, conquered, and dispersed by the Babylonians, but also a forward look to the great day of the LORD in the end times when His wrath is poured out over all of the earth. With poignant language Zephaniah declares the effects of sin in the sight of an Almighty God upon His fallen creation. His power is revealed, and the people of the earth will not be delivered by relying on silver and gold (Zephaniah 1:11, 18). Trusting in their idols like Baal (chief god of the Canaanites symbolizing strength and fertility) and Milcom (Molech, god of the Ammonites, which included such atrocities as child sacrifice) would prove futile and disastrous for His chosen people who went astray from His loving care and plan. In short, they forgot about God and didn’t think He would care about their transgressions. Therefore, they would build houses but not inhabit them, plant vineyards but not drink their wine (Zephaniah 1:13). *Application* It is easy at times in our life to think that we have it made with ease and comfort when things seem to be going so well. If we are not careful, complacency, apathy, and stagnation creep in and take us away from the God that is jealous for us and wants our total devotion (Zephaniah 1:12, 18). Don’t drift away from the LORD into the sea of sin and depravity. His corrective measures can be terrifying.

Verse to Memorize: Zephaniah 1:12