Page 117 - Old Testament Survey Student Textbook

Jerusalem (1-3) With incredible irony, prophet urges shameless to gather like straw for a fire (1-2). To
the righteous, he urges them to humbly seek YHWH (obey) and perhaps He will hide them from His
anger on this day of judgment! (3)

World (4-15) YHWH foretells the destruction of all Israel’s enemies. He will bring ruin on Philistine cities,
making them pasture land for Judah’s remnant (hope, 4-7). For their prideful taunts, He will make Lot’s
children like Sodom-Gomorrah, plunder for Judah’s remnant (hope). YHWH will proclaim His supremacy
(8-11). Cush also has fallen (12). For its God-like pride (Isa. 45), He will destroy, depose Assyria (13-15)!

Jerusalem (1-8) Because of her independence (no trust) and injustice (rulers-exploit, prophets-deceit,
priests-profane), YHWH sings a funeral song over Jerusalem, contrasting His character with people (1-5).
Though defeat of nations was intended as correction, the corruption continued all the more! As this
worldwide judgment is about to arrive, YHWH asks the righteous to wait in faith! (cf. Isa. 64:4)

World (9-10) YHWH foretells a future time when He will purify nations. Reversing the Tower of Babel, He
will purify speech (lip) of nations, enabling the dispersed to return to Him with worship, service (9-10).

Jerusalem (11-20) YHWH promises to remove the proud, but for the humble, those who seek refuge in
Him, those who act justly and speak truthfully, He promises peace and security (11-13). In chiastic form,
YHWH urges the remnant to (a) sing, and be glad (14,17c-d) (b) for His rescue (15a-b, 17b) (c) His
presence (15c, 17a) (d) Do not fear (15-16) He promises to remove reproach (cf. 2:1, gather) reverse
ruin (shame-praise), restore blessing.

The Book of Zephaniah

13.4 Let’s Practice…

1. What is the theme of Joel?

2-4. Name at least three people groups that the minor prophets wrote against:

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