The document provides an overview of a Bible study on the prophet Zephaniah and his message. It discusses:
1. An introduction to Zephaniah, including the meaning of his name and the times he prophesied during King Josiah.
2. A summary of Zephaniah's message, including judgements on Judah, surrounding nations like Moab and Ammon, and Jerusalem for their sins.
3. The prophecy also contains messages of salvation, including God turning to the nations with a pure language and leaving behind a humble, faithful remnant after passing judgements. It will culminate in the restoration of Jerusalem where God dwells among them.
Dear sisters and brothers,
If you have no sense of sin, maybe you have not yet encountered the Lord, the Holy One. You will never be transformed.
Fr. Cielo
Dear sisters and brothers,
If you have no sense of sin, maybe you have not yet encountered the Lord, the Holy One. You will never be transformed.
Fr. Cielo
History of Israel part 1 & 2 - PRRM Bible Study GroupAverell Gaspar
Old testament survey from Exodus to Nehemiah; series 1 of 5 parts. This is a 5-part series taking on the highlights of the Old Testament Historical books, except Genesis.
KINGS, HIGH PLACES, WAR & THE END IN THE CONTEXT OF KING ASALinus Daniel
Exploring the life of King Asa & Worship @ High Places
Lessons from his Life: Courage, Encourage, Stress, Leadership, Blameless, Reforms, Endurance.
"But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa's heart was perfect with the LORD all his days." (1 Kings 15:11-14 )
The Mark Of The Beast Or The Seal Of Godguest6a4ef8
THE MARK OF THE BEAST WILL BE FINALIZED WHEN THE NATIONAL (WORLDWIDE) SUNDAY LAW IS PASSED, AND WHEN ALL OF MANKIND HAVE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHOOSE EITHER GOD OR SATAN; GOD'S PEOPLE WILL BE SEALED BY MAKING THEIR DECISION TO FOLLOW CHRIST JESUS (SEVENTH) DAY, NOT SUNDAY.
History of Israel part 1 & 2 - PRRM Bible Study GroupAverell Gaspar
Old testament survey from Exodus to Nehemiah; series 1 of 5 parts. This is a 5-part series taking on the highlights of the Old Testament Historical books, except Genesis.
KINGS, HIGH PLACES, WAR & THE END IN THE CONTEXT OF KING ASALinus Daniel
Exploring the life of King Asa & Worship @ High Places
Lessons from his Life: Courage, Encourage, Stress, Leadership, Blameless, Reforms, Endurance.
"But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa's heart was perfect with the LORD all his days." (1 Kings 15:11-14 )
The Mark Of The Beast Or The Seal Of Godguest6a4ef8
THE MARK OF THE BEAST WILL BE FINALIZED WHEN THE NATIONAL (WORLDWIDE) SUNDAY LAW IS PASSED, AND WHEN ALL OF MANKIND HAVE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHOOSE EITHER GOD OR SATAN; GOD'S PEOPLE WILL BE SEALED BY MAKING THEIR DECISION TO FOLLOW CHRIST JESUS (SEVENTH) DAY, NOT SUNDAY.
Luke 2:14: A pseudo song service examining the joyous message of the angels to the shepherds. This passage reminds us of the good news of Jesus for our salvation.
Psalms 2:1-3 - Collection of Biblical CommentariesBerean Wanderean
Psalms 2:1-3
The meaning of the Scripture is the Scripture. Be saturated with the Word of God.... daily.
Meditate the Scripture
Meditate the Word of God
Daily Study
Daily Reading
Daily Devotion
Daily Verse
Daily Scripture
Daily Bread
Daily Guide
Commentary
Bible Commentary
Bible Verse Commentary
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
This is a study of Jesus as the sovereign son in Psalm 2. We have here just some of the commentaries on this messianic Psalm that make clear that Jesus is the son to be coming to reign over all as Lord.
Psalm 2 begins with a question: “Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?.” In response, God gives the nations the cosmic raspberry and ridicules their pride, claiming that he has set his king on Zion (v 5–6). v 7–9, recalls this coronation, noting especially God’s promise to make the nations his heritage. Armed with this confidence, God rebukes the rulers of the earth, telling them to serve Him by bowing the knee to God’s anointed king (v 10–12).
So if we were to summarize the message of Psalm 2, we could say that because God has enthroned his king, the nations of the earth should repent of their rebellion and take refuge in the Messiah/ The Lord Jesus Christ.
Psalms 2:1-12 || Collection of Biblical CommentariesBerean Wanderean
The meaning of the Scripture is the Scripture. Be saturated with the Word of God.... daily.
Meditate the Scripture
Meditate the Word of God
Daily Study
Daily Reading
Daily Devotion
Daily Verse
Daily Scripture
Daily Bread
Daily Guide
Commentary
Bible Commentary
Bible Verse Commentary
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
Part 1 of a 4 part study on Paul's epistle to the Philippians. This epistle of brotherly love contains much helpful instruction as we seek to emulate Christ.
An overview of the book of Job, the 18th book of the Bible/OT... surveying the shape and overall content. Given at a Bible Class in Laindon on 11th December 2019
An introduction to the book of Revelation - and how to approach our study of it. Presented at a Bible Study class in Laindon on the 2nd October 2019 by S Fuller
A review of the imprecatory Psalms, which rather than being an embarrassment to Christians should be a source of comfort that Divine justice will ultimately prevail. Given at Laindon (Old Paths) Christadelphian ecclesia on 1st May 2019
A study given at Laindon (Old Paths) Christadelphian Ecclesia about the lesson of the Gibeonites (and their Faith & Works). Reference: Joshua chapter 9
What Jesus meant by - violent take kingdomSimon Fuller
A review of one of the sayings of Jesus (Matthew 11 v 12) and how it can be understood through careful examination. Study given at Laindon (Old Paths) Ecclesia, 26/9/18.
An exploration of the true basis and inestimable benefits of fellowship, as described within God's Word (and practised in the 1st century). Part of a 3 part series given at Laindon (Old Paths) Christadelphians
A Bible class given at Laindon Old Paths Christadelphian Ecclesia on the 30th May 2018, to discuss the vital theme of blood in the epistle to the Hebrews (especially relevant to Christians given Jesus' atoning sacrifice)
Exposing the flaws in Theistic EvolutionSimon Fuller
A Bible class given on the 24th January 2018 at Laindon Old Paths Christadelphian ecclesia on the flaws in TE and the truth of Creation (as explained in the Bible)
A Laindon Old Paths Christadelphians Bible study on the concept and development of the school of the prophets through the ages, particularly the times of Samuel and Elijah/Elisha, and lessons for us today
A study of the events of 1 Kings 21 - Naboth's Vineyard, Elijah and King Ahab - given at Laindon Old Paths Christadelphians Bible Class on 20th September 2017
The allegory of Joseph and Pharaoh (Genesis)Simon Fuller
A presentation given at the Laindon (Old Paths) Christadelphian Ecclesia on the 26th April on the allegory (or type) of Joseph (in figure Christ) and Pharaoh (representing God)
Bible presentation given at Laindon Old Paths Christadelphian Ecclesia on 21st December 2016, as part of a series on the Life and Times of Joshua. This study focussing on the conquest of Jericho and Ai (as well as the connected symbology and types)
Joshua - Preparation and crossing JordanSimon Fuller
Bible Class given at Laindon Old Paths Christadelphian ecclesia on the 7th December 2016. Exploring this stage of the life of Joshua - including events, patterns and lessons
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
HANUMAN STORIES: TIMELESS TEACHINGS FOR TODAY’S WORLDLearnyoga
Hanuman Stories: Timeless Teachings for Today’s World" delves into the inspiring tales of Hanuman, highlighting lessons of devotion, strength, and selfless service that resonate in modern life. These stories illustrate how Hanuman's unwavering faith and courage can guide us through challenges and foster resilience. Through these timeless narratives, readers can find profound wisdom to apply in their daily lives.
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma Reflections for the PBHP DYC for the years 1993 – 2012. To motivate and inspire DYC members to keep on practicing the Dhamma and to do the meritorious deed of Dhammaduta work.
The texts are in English.
For the Video with audio narration, comments and texts in English, please check out the Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF2g_43NEa0
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way
SBs – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is hereNoHo FUMC
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptxBharat Technology
each chakra is studied in greater detail, several steps have been included to
strengthen your personal intention to open each chakra more fully. These are designed
to draw forth the highest benefit for your spiritual growth.
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptxMartaLoveguard
Slide 1: Title: Exploring the Mindfulness: Understanding Its Benefits
Slide 2: Introduction to Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the conscious, non-judgmental observation of the present moment, has deep roots in Buddhist meditation practice but has gained significant popularity in the Western world in recent years. In today's society, filled with distractions and constant stimuli, mindfulness offers a valuable tool for regaining inner peace and reconnecting with our true selves. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a heightened awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, leading to a greater sense of clarity and presence in our daily lives.
Slide 3: Benefits of Mindfulness for Mental Well-being
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving overall quality of life.
Mindfulness increases awareness of our emotions and teaches us to manage them better, leading to improved mood.
Regular mindfulness practice can improve our ability to concentrate and focus our attention on the present moment.
Slide 4: Benefits of Mindfulness for Physical Health
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can contribute to lowering blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting infections.
Mindfulness may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing stress and improving overall lifestyle habits.
Slide 5: Impact of Mindfulness on Relationships
Mindfulness can help us better understand others and improve communication, leading to healthier relationships.
By focusing on the present moment and being fully attentive, mindfulness helps build stronger and more authentic connections with others.
Mindfulness teaches us how to be present for others in difficult times, leading to increased compassion and understanding.
Slide 6: Mindfulness Techniques and Practices
Focusing on the breath and mindful breathing can be a simple way to enter a state of mindfulness.
Body scan meditation involves focusing on different parts of the body, paying attention to any sensations and feelings.
Practicing mindful walking and eating involves consciously focusing on each step or bite, with full attention to sensory experiences.
Slide 7: Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness in everyday activities such as washing dishes or taking a walk in the park.
Adding mindfulness practice to daily routines can help increase awareness and presence.
Mindfulness helps us become more aware of our needs and better manage our time, leading to balance and harmony in life.
Slide 8: Summary: Embracing Mindfulness for Full Living
Mindfulness can bring numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice can help achieve a fuller and more satisfying life.
Mindfulness has the power to change our perspective and way of perceiving the world, leading to deeper se
What Should be the Christian View of Anime?Joe Muraguri
We will learn what Anime is and see what a Christian should consider before watching anime movies? We will also learn a little bit of Shintoism religion and hentai (the craze of internet pornography today).
1. Laindon Bible Study, 23rd December 2015
Minor prophets and
their message
2 - of - 2
2. A highly relevant prophecy in allages!
Zephaniah's message (2) 2
Near future
c. 40 years
Day of Judgement/
the LORD Babylon
Distant future
>2,600 years
Day of Judgement/
the LORD End Time
Zephaniah
3. Our first study
Zephaniah's message (2) 3
Background, key theme
& key exhortation
Prophet
His times
His contemporaries
Book overview
4. A précis of our first study
Part
one
Silence
then
crisis! Good
King
Josiah
Family
relations
“Day of
the
LORD”Comfort
and
warning
‘Yah has
hidden’
Josiah
spared
wrath
Judge
and
saviour
Zephaniah's message (2) 4
5. Today’s second study
Zephaniah's message (2) 5
Further exposition
& exhortation
3 chapters; 53 verses;
1,617 words
Relevance in 7th c. BC
Relevance in 21st c. AD
6. The key divisions withinthe prophecy
Zephaniah's message (2) 6
Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
7. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Introduction
• Only explanation for four generations = royal connection (Z. = a prince)
• Different names (Br-Dr-Br Lexicon):
– Cushi = their blackness
– Gedaliah = Yah(weh) is great
– Amariah = Yah(weh) speaks/has promised
– Hezekiah = Yah(weh) is my strength
– Zephaniah = Yah(weh) has treasured
Zephaniah's message (2) 7
Zephaniah1 v1
1 The word of the Lord which came unto Zephaniah the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the
son of Amariah, the son of Hizkiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah.
In the day of judgement
The LORD is great
He has promised
To be my strength
And to treasure/hide me
8. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Judgementon Judah
• Words must have pre-dated Josiah’s reforms (cp. 2 Kings 23 v 4>)
• Clear description of three failings (or groups of people):
• Compare teaching of the NT and today’s world!
Zephaniah's message (2) 8
Zephaniah1 v4-6
4 I will also stretch out mine hand upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and
I will cut off the remnant of Baal [‘lord’, god of the Phoenicians/Canaanites] from this place,
and the name of the Chemarims [NKJV, ESV: ‘idolatrous priests’] with the priests; 5 And them
that worship the host of heaven upon the housetops; and them that worship and that swear
by the Lord, and that swear by Malcham [‘great king’, god of the Ammonites]; 6 And them that
are turned back from the Lord; and those that have not sought the Lord, nor inquired for him.
Openly idolatrous Mixed allegiances Without God at all
9. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Judgementon Judah
• Respectful silence before the Great and Mighty Yahweh
• Sanctified guests (i.e. Babylon cp. Isaiah 13 v 3) are invited to the
sacrifice/feast, cp. Supper of the great God in Revelation 19 v 17-18
• “Princes” “King’s children” relevance to both Zephaniah/Josiah
• Following verses describe failures (1 v 9), punishment (1 v 10-18),
but still with God-given opportunity to change direction (2 v 1-3)
Zephaniah's message (2) 9
Zephaniah1 v7-8
7 Hold thy peace at the presence of the Lord God: for the day of the Lord is at hand: for the
Lord hath prepared a sacrifice, he hath bid [consecrated, sanctified] his guests. 8 And it shall
come to pass in the day of the Lord's sacrifice, that I will punish the princes, and the king's
children, and all such as are clothed with strange apparel.
10. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Judgementon surrounding nations
Zephaniah's message (2) 10
Zephaniah2 v4-5
4 For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation: they
shall drive out Ashdod at the noon day, and Ekron shall be
rooted up. 5 Woe unto the inhabitants of the sea coast, the
nation of the Cherethites! the word of the Lord is against
you; O Canaan, the land of the Philistines, I will even destroy
thee, that there shall be no inhabitant.
Zephaniah 2v 8
8 I have heard the reproach of Moab,
and the revilings of the children of
Ammon, whereby they have
reproached my people, and magnified
themselves against their border.
Zephaniah2 v13
13 And he will stretch out his
hand against the north, and
destroy Assyria; and will make
Nineveh a desolation, and dry
like a wilderness.
11. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Judgementon surrounding nations
• For what wrongdoings were the surrounding nations judged?
• 2 v 8-10: Moab and Ammon, spared by God (Deut. 2 v 9/19), yet:
– Reproached God’s people/sanctuary & blasphemed (Ezekiel 25 v 2-11)
• 2 v 13-15: Assyria, an instrument in God’s hand, yet:
– Became exalted in pride (Ezekiel 31 v 3-17 esp. v. 10-11 & Isaiah 10 v 12-15)
Zephaniah's message (2) 11
Pride and vanity Ill treatment of God’s people
“This shall they have for their pride” (2 v 10) “they have reproached my people, and magnified
themselves against their border.” (2 v 8)
“This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that
said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside
me” (2 v 15)
“they have reproached and magnified themselves
against the people of the Lord of hosts” (2 v 10)
12. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Judgementon Jerusalem
• Greater responsibility due to detailed knowledge of God’s ways and
requirements (cp. Luke 12 v 48)
• Four key failings (verse 2):
Zephaniah's message (2) 12
Zephaniah3 v1-4
1 Woe to her that is filthy [NKJV, ESV: ‘rebellious’] and polluted, to the oppressing city! 2 She
obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; she trusted not in the Lord; she drew not
near to her God. 3 Her princes within her are roaring lions; her judges are evening wolves;
they gnaw not the bones till the morrow. 4 Her prophets are light [Str. ‘to bubble up or froth’]
and treacherous persons: her priests have polluted the sanctuary, they have done violence to
the law.
Did not obey God Did not receive correction Did not trust God Did not draw near God
13. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Judgementon nationsand kingdoms
• Two key words, “assemble” and “gather”… compare combined use
in End Time prophecies within:
– Ezekiel 39 v 17 “assemble yourselves… gather yourselves”
– Joel 3 v 9-14 “assemble yourselves… gather yourselves”
• Completeness of God’s fiery judgement is demonstrated upon
“nations… kingdoms… earth” (cp. 2 Peter 3 v 10)
Zephaniah's message (2) 13
Zephaniah3 v8
8 Therefore wait ye upon me, saith the Lord, until the day that I rise up to the prey: for my
determination is to gather the nations, that I may assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon
them mine indignation, even all my fierce anger: for all the earth shall be devoured with the
fire of my jealousy.
14. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Salvation and conversion
• Origin of mixed languages was human pride (building of Babel) and
an attempt to go against God’s will (i.e. not replenishing the earth)
• Afflicted and poor people cp. those left to tend the land by Babylon
(Jeremiah 39 v 9-10) and the saints in prospect (Isaiah 66 v 2)
Zephaniah's message (2) 14
Zephaniah 3v 9, 11-12
9 For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of
the Lord, to serve him with one consent… 11 In that day shalt thou not be ashamed for all thy
doings, wherein thou hast transgressed against me: for then I will take away out of the midst
of thee them that rejoice in thy pride, and thou shalt no more be haughty because of my holy
mountain. 12 I will also leave in the midst of thee an afflicted and poor people, and they shall
trust in the name of the Lord .
15. Judgement Salvation
1 v 1 Introduction
1 v 2 – 2 v 3 On Judah
2 v 4-15 On nations surrounding Judah
3 v 1-7 On Jerusalem
3 v 8 On nations and kingdoms
3 v 9-13
Conversion
3 v 14-20
Restoration
Salvation and restoration
• Much is in the ‘prophetic perfect’ tense (i.e. as if already done), e.g.
“hath cast out thine enemy” “shalt not see evil any more”
• God’s ‘emotions’ expressed “joy… rejoice” cp. angels: Luke 15 v 7/10
• “In the midst” an important concept, appearing 4 times in chapter
Zephaniah's message (2) 15
Zephaniah3 v14-17
14 Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter
of Jerusalem. 15 The Lord hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the
king of Israel, even the Lord, is in the midst of thee: thou shalt not see evil any more. 16 In that
day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not: and to Zion, Let not thine hands be slack. 17
The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with
joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.
16. Further exhortations fromZephaniah
“Neither
their silver
nor their gold
shall be able
to deliver
them” 1 v 18
“The LORD
will not do
good…
neither…
evil” 1 v 12
“Seek ye
the Lord,
all ye meek
of the
earth” 2 v 3
“I will save
her that
halteth”
3 v 19
Zephaniah's message (2) 16
17. Is God indifferent/ impotent?
• A fundamental misunderstanding of God, very much evident in
today’s world (e.g. in the so-called Problem of Evil debate)
• What this does not take account of is timescales in God’s purpose
• We must not slip into the mind-set of “Where is the promise of his
coming?” (2 Peter 3 v 4)
• Parallels between Zephaniah’s time & Laodicean age (Rev. 3 v 14>)
Zephaniah's message (2) 17
Zephaniah1 v12
12 And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish
the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The Lord will not do good,
neither will he do evil.
18. Material dangers!
• A false belief that benefits in the present outweigh future ones
• For what was Noah’s generation condemned by Jesus? Distractions!
• Treasure on earth vs. treasure in heaven (Matthew 6 v 19-21)
Zephaniah's message (2) 18
Zephaniah1 v18
18 Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the Lord's
wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even
a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land.
Matthew 24v 37-38
37 But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the
days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in
marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
19. Meek ≠ Weak
• A much undervalued/misunderstood quality in today’s world
• Meekness ultimately has to do with being teachable and
conforming to God’s ways
• We can learn much from the meekest/lowliest man who has ever
lived, our Lord Jesus Christ (see Matthew 11 v 29)
Zephaniah's message (2) 19
Zephaniah2 v3
3 Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek
righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger.
Psalm 25v 9
9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
20. A true reversal of fortunes
• For there to be a reversal, we have to accept the littleness of today
• With the benefits of hindsight, much that seems unpalatable today
will be seen to be wholly justified (and to our ultimate benefit)
Zephaniah's message (2) 20
Zephaniah3 v19
19 Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will save her that halteth, and
gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they
have been put to shame.
2 Corinthians 4 v 17
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and
eternal weight of glory;
21. Conclusion of study 2
• As we said in our opening remarks last week, not a book directly
quoted in NT but with themes and teaching that are so current
• There are many repeating patterns in God’s dealings with
humankind, such as:
– Freewill but with personal responsibility
– Opportunity but with consequences
– Salvation but following judgement
Zephaniah's message (2) 21
Malachi 3 v17
17 And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day [thirty nine out of one hundred
and fifteen appearances of this phrase are in minor prophets] when I make up my jewels; and
I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.