Zephaniah

Author: Zephaniah
Date of Writing: 7th century BC
Type of Book: Prophetic
Theme: The day of the Lord

Zephaniah was the last of what are called the preexilic prophets, which means he prophesied before the fall of the southern kingdom of Judah. He was a contemporary with Jeremiah, who continued to prophesy during the exile; whereas Zephaniah's prophecies occurred prior to the fall of Jerusalem.

Zephaniah was a great-great-grandson of King Hezekiah. He ministered during the reign of Josiah and he was probably born during the reign of Manasseh, one of the most evil kings in history. During the reign of Josiah the people of Judah went through a spiritual revival, and some commentators suggest that perhaps Zephaniah had an influence on Josiah in bringing about that revival. It is certainly possible, given the nature of his prophecies, and the fact that as a member of the royal family he would have had access to the king.

At any rate Zephaniah rebuked the nation for the unbridled sin that was running rampant throughout Judah and warned that the fate of the northen kingdom, which had already fallen to Assyria, would be theirs as well. The revival under Josiah was short-lived, and the people would face the consequences of their sinful lifestyles. Zephaniah called them to repentance and offered hope from God if they would just turn to Him.

Zephaniah also projected into the future and talked about the day of the Lord, when God would judge all nations for their rebellion against Him. But he also foretold the day of ultimate restoration and the joy and celebration that will come when God establishes His kingdom on earth. Zephaniah prophesied of the coming of a Savior and the fellowship for those who follow after Him. "The Lord your God in your midst, the mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing" (Zeph. 3:17).

-from Pastor Chuck Smith: The Word for Today Bible