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Introduction (1:1–3)

Title: The Prophet Identified (1:1)

• Zephaniah identifies himself as the son of Cushi, a descendant of Hezekiah, and introduces the message he has received from God.

Prologue: Double Announcement of Total Judgment (1:2–3)

• Zephaniah delivers the declaration of God’s coming judgment, which will affect all of creation, both the earth and mankind.

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The Day of the Lord Coming on Judah and the Nations (1:4–18)

Judgment on the Idolaters in Judah (1:4–9)

• God will punish the idolaters in Judah, including those who worship the host of heaven and other false gods.

Wailing throughout Jerusalem (1:10–13)

• A lament is issued over the impending destruction of Jerusalem. The wealth and security of the city will be of no help in the day of judgment.

The Inescapable Day of the Lord’s Wrath (1:14–18)

• The Day of the Lord is described as near and coming quickly, with no one able to escape the wrath of God, regardless of their wealth or power.

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God’s Judgment on the Nations (2:1—3:8)

Call to Judah to Repent (2:1–3)

• A call to the people of Judah to gather together, repent, and seek righteousness before the Day of the Lord comes upon them.

Judgment on Philistia (2:4–7)

• The Philistines will be judged by God, their cities will be destroyed, and the land will be left for the remnant of Judah.

Judgment on Moab and Ammon (2:8–11)

• God pronounces judgment on the nations of Moab and Ammon, for their arrogance and mockery of Israel.

Judgment on Cush (2:12)

• Cush (modern-day Ethiopia) will be judged for its pride and hostility toward Israel.

Judgment on Assyria (2:13–15)

• Assyria, the great empire known for its cruelty, will fall and become desolate, a testimony to God’s judgment on pride and oppression.

Judgment on Jerusalem (3:1–5)

• Jerusalem, characterized by its corruption and injustice, is condemned for its refusal to repent and heed God’s warnings.

Jerusalem’s Refusal to Repent (3:6–8)

• Despite God’s efforts to bring judgment upon the nations around Jerusalem, the city itself remains unrepentant and stubborn. The ultimate judgment will come upon them for their rebellion.

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Redemption of the Remnant (3:9–20)

The Nations Purified, the Remnant Restored, Jerusalem Purged (3:9–13)

• In the final days, God will purify the nations, restoring a faithful remnant in Israel, and purging Jerusalem of its impurity.

Rejoicing in the City (3:14–17)

• The people are encouraged to rejoice, for God will be in their midst, providing deliverance, protection, and peace. The Lord will no longer be angry with His people.

The Nation Restored (3:18–20)

• God promises to restore Israel, bringing back the exiles, blessing the land, and making it a place of peace, prosperity, and security.