Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 27:74 (Spring 2023)
Article: The Day Of The Lord In Zephaniah: Judgment And Blessing
Author: Brian Ritchie

JODT 27:74 (Spring 2023) p. 43

The Day Of The Lord In Zephaniah: Judgment And Blessing

Brian Ritchie

* Brian Ritchie, Th.M. student, Tyndale Theological Seminary and Biblical Institute; men’s Bible study teacher and Awana volunteer, Lake Hazel Bible Church, Boise, Idaho

Zephaniah was a prophet to the southern kingdom of Judah during the time of the reign of Josiah. The theme of Zephaniah’s prophecy is the day of the Lord. There are three aspects to the prophecy: judgment and cleansing, a call to repentance, and blessing. The judgments of the day of the Lord focus on three aspects: the world, Judah, and Judah’s enemies. The blessings of the day of the Lord in Zephaniah focus on God’s covenant people, with blessing extending to the world. Judah is called to repentance to escape judgment and enter into blessing.

The Day Of The Lord Contextualized

Prior to considering the context of the book of Zephaniah, it would be helpful to have an outline in mind. Following the introduction of 1:1 is the summary of coming judgments (vv. 2–3) including those occurring imminently against Judah (vv. 4–6). Verse 7 is a call to attention and also a transition statement. The day of the Lord judgments of Jerusalem occur next (vv. 8–13), followed by another transition statement (v. 14), and day of the Lord judgments announced against the world (vv. 15–18). Chapter 2 (vv. 1–3) begins with a call to repentance. The day of the Lord judgments are then announced (vv. 4–15). Chapter 3 (vv. 1–7) begins with an indictment against Jerusalem and a closing statement of judgment (v. 8). Finally, the book concludes by announcing the blessings of the day of the Lord (vv. 9–20).

Zephaniah is given as the author of the book that bears his name. Commentators note the unique feature among the prophets of listing a four-generation genealogy.1 Some contend that it is not possible that the

JODT 27:74 (Spring 2023) p. 44

Hezekiah listed at the terminus of the genealogy could be King Hezekiah.You must have a subscription and be logged in to read the entire article.
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