Study Guide / Outline

Introduction and Prayer

• The speaker begins by expressing excitement about Old Testament survey classes.
• He prays, thanking God for His Word and asks for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and revelation.
• The prayer focuses on opening hearts to receive God’s Word and addressing any distractions or challenges.

Author and Historical Context

• The author of the book of Zephaniah is identified as Zephaniah.
• Zephaniah traces his lineage back four generations, including Hezekiah, a godly king of Judah.
• Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of King Josiah, who implemented significant reforms.
• Josiah inherited a corrupt and idolatrous administration from previous rulers.

Purpose of the Book of Zephaniah

• The book of Zephaniah serves as a proclamation of God’s impending judgment.
• Zephaniah emphasizes the consequences of disobedience but also promises deliverance and blessing.
• The message conveys God’s holiness, justice, and love for sinners.
• The speaker highlights the balance between God’s hatred for sin and His love for sinners.

Outline of the Book of Zephaniah

1. Warning of Coming Judgment (Zephaniah 1:1 – 2:3)
   • Zephaniah proclaims God’s impending judgment upon Jerusalem and Judah.
   • Both man and beast will be consumed.
   • Idols and idol worshippers will face destruction.
   • The wicked will be punished.
   • Zephaniah calls the nation to repentance.
2. Recipients of Judgment (Zephaniah 2:4 – 3:7)
   • God’s judgment extends to surrounding heathen nations.
   • Zephaniah points out that the sins of Jerusalem are similar to those of heathen nations.
   • The prophet declares that God’s judgment will impact all nations, including Judah.
3. Results of the Judgment (Zephaniah 3:8-20)
   • The judgment will purify the remnant of God’s people.
   • The nation will be destroyed, but a small, pure remnant will remain.
   • This remnant will trust in the name of the Lord.
   • Zephaniah speaks of the daughter of Zion singing and God being with her.

God’s Purpose and Redemption

• God’s judgment is not to destroy but to purify and teach.
• The remnant left behind will worship God with a pure heart.
• God’s plan extends beyond a small nation to encompass the entire world.
• The current challenges faced by believers are part of God’s purifying process.
• Those who stand the test will emerge with a burning passion for God.

Conclusion and Prayer

• The speaker concludes by thanking God for the book of Zephaniah.
• He prays for understanding, purification, and the ability to reflect God’s image on Earth.
• The prayer expresses gratitude for being part of God’s remnant people.