A Day is Coming

O. T. #2241 "A Day is Coming"

July 21, 2022

Introduction to Zephaniah

Zephaniah's name means "the LORD hides." He was a prophet for about 50 years to Judah. He traces his genealogy back 4 generations to King Hezekiah. Zephaniah dates his message during the reign of Josiah (640=609 BC). Thus, he prophesied during 635-625 BC.

Background

Judah was in idolatry and wickedness before Josiah's reforms. It was in 628 BC that the king tore down all the altars to Baal, burned the bones of false prophets, and broke the carved idols; the Book of the Law was found. 

However, the previous kings had such an evil effect on Judah that the nation never recovered. King Josiah's reforms were too late and did not l\outlast his life.

Theme

This prophet contrasts the day coming with gloom, pain, darkness as God responses to His people's sins. On the other hand, the day of the Lord brings restoration after judgment. Also, the 7 year of tribulation is coming at the end of history. The millennial reign of Christ will conform Israel to His ways. 

There is hope for Israel and the Nations. So we can look forward to the coming Great Day.