The Day of the Lord Is Near
A Study Guide for Awakening, Repentance, and Hope
1. Introduction: Who Was Zephaniah and Why Does This Book Matter?
Zephaniah was a prophet during the reign of King Josiah, likely before his major reforms (around 640–630 B.C.).
He was a descendant of King Hezekiah, giving him royal blood and credibility in Judah.
His message is bold: God’s judgment is coming because of idolatry, pride, and injustice. But there’s also a message of hope for the humble.
Reflection: Zephaniah calls us to wake up. God is holy, and judgment is real—but so is His mercy for those who seek Him.
2. Chapter 1: The Coming Judgment
Zephaniah begins with a sweeping warning: “I will utterly sweep away everything from the face of the earth” (1:2).
Judah is indicted for idolatry, syncretism, and spiritual complacency.
The Day of the Lord is described as near, bitter, and dark (1:14–18).
No wealth or position will protect against God’s wrath.
Takeaway: God’s judgment is not random—it’s righteous. And it starts with His own people (1:12).
3. Chapter 2: A Call to Repentance and a Warning to the Nations
“Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land…” (2:3) – this is the heartbeat of the book.
If they repent, they may be sheltered on the Day of the Lord.
The chapter also contains judgments against foreign nations: Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Cush, and Assyria.
God holds all nations accountable, not just Israel.
Lesson: God’s mercy is available—but it must be sought with humility and urgency.
4. Chapter 3: Jerusalem’s Sin and God’s Promise of Restoration
Even after warning the nations, God focuses back on Jerusalem: rebellion, defilement, and disobedience (3:1–5).
But God promises that He will purify a remnant.
A day will come when the proud are removed and the humble are lifted up.
Zephaniah ends with a powerful vision of restoration and rejoicing:
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save…” (3:17)
Truth: God doesn’t just punish sin—He restores the repentant and rejoices over His people with singing.
5. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Zephaniah 1:12 – “I will search Jerusalem with lamps… and punish the men who are complacent…”
Zephaniah 1:14 – “The great day of the Lord is near, near and hastening fast…”
Zephaniah 2:3 – “Seek the Lord… seek righteousness; seek humility…”
Zephaniah 3:12 – “I will leave in your midst a people humble and lowly…”
Zephaniah 3:17 – “The Lord your God is in your midst… He will rejoice over you with gladness…”
6. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
Why do you think God begins Zephaniah with such strong words of judgment?
What warnings are given to the complacent—and what does complacency look like today?
How can we “seek the Lord” in a way that leads to shelter and peace?
What does Zephaniah teach us about both the justice and the joy of God?
How does the image of God rejoicing over His people shape your understanding of His heart?
What part of your life needs to be awakened before the Day of the Lord?