Macro-Structure of Zephaniah
Audience
Zephaniah's opening places his prophecy in Josiah's reign. The book announces judgment on Judah and the nations, calls for seeking the LORD, and ends with restoration and rejoicing.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| The coming day Zephaniah 1:1–18 Interpretation | Judgment on Judah | The opening exposes Judah's sins and describes the severity of the approaching day of the LORD. |
| Seek the LORD; the nations are warned Zephaniah 2:1–15 Interpretation | Humility and accountability | The appeal to seek the LORD is followed by announcements against surrounding nations. |
| Jerusalem confronted and restored Zephaniah 3:1–20 Interpretation | Purification and rejoicing | Jerusalem's rebellion is exposed before the closing promises of a purified people, gathering, and the LORD's presence. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.