The prophet returns to Jerusalem with a woe on “the city of oppressors,” rebellious and defiled, whose officials are roaring lions, whose judges are evening wolves, whose prophets are reckless and whose priests profane the holy. Though the righteous LORD is in her midst and “never does wrong,” the city would not receive correction. Yet God announces a stunning reversal: He will purify “the speech of the peoples” so that all may call on His name and serve Him, and He will leave in Israel “a people humble and lowly” who take refuge in the name of the LORD. The book soars to a joyful climax as God calls His people to sing: “The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst... The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” God promises to gather the outcast, remove their shame, and restore their fortunes before their eyes.
Zephaniah study chapter
Zephaniah 3
c. 630 BCWoe on rebellious Jerusalem gives way to the purifying of the peoples, a humble remnant preserved, and God rejoicing over His people with singing.
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