You Will Be Hidden

Introduction

Zephaniah is the great great grandson of Hezekiah which sets him apart from most prophets as far as station in the kingdom.

He presents a message with some of the strongest judgment language mixed with some of the strongest hope language.

The Sign of All Judgments

There is a pronouncement of complete judgment (Zeph. 1:2-3).

This language is connected to the judgment of Judah (Zeph. 1:4).

Then he returns to the theme of total destruction (Zeph. 1:18).

God will judge all the nations from the west, east, south, and north (Zeph. 2).

Once again, the total destruction is alluded to in the midst of judgment on Jerusalem (Zeph. 3:8).

The Targets of Judgment

Idolatry is the key source of God’s wrath here (Zeph. 1:4-6).

This includes “partial” idolatry.

It also includes mere lack of confidence in Him.

It includes those who have simply taken to look like everyone else (Zeph. 1:8-9).

Practical atheism is also a target of His wrath (Zeph. 1:12).

Pride is the besetting sin of the nations around them (Zeph. 2:8).

The Results of Judgment

It is pronounced that it may be avoided (Zeph. 2:3).

There are consecrated guests who come and see this judgment (Zeph. 1:7).

The righteous will be the beneficiaries of God’s judgment on the wicked (Zeph. 2:7).

All of this is meant to produce a truly righteous people (Zeph. 3:12-20).

Conclusion

His judgments are pronounced in order to produce good.

His judgments are executed in order to produce good.

The only question is, will you receive that good or will you receive judgment that others may receive good.