We had a little break since our last Bible Fiber. I was in Israel helping with the writing for a new documentary called Uncovering the Tabernacle which should be out by November 2022. If you want to learn more about the documentary, go to www.geshermedia.com or follow Gesher Media on Facebook for behind-the-scenes photos.
This week we are closing out the prophet Zephaniah. Zephaniah’s condemnation of nations in chapter 2 was a rhetorical device. Listeners in Judea surely agreed with the prophet about the urgent need to punish their enemies. As covenant people, they presumptuously anticipated their own pardon. Granted, Assyria destroyed the Kingdom of Israel, but they felt Judah was different. Judah had Jerusalem, the place of God’s presence. Even when Assyria destroyed Israel a century before, Judah was shown mercy (Hos. 1:6). Mercy once shown became mercy taken for granted.
Accountability of the Chosen
In chapter 3, the prophet narrows his focus and points the finger at His listening audience. God is angry with Jerusalem. Jerusalem is guilty of the same sinful behavior as the nations and they will be punished accordingly. He writes, “Woe, soiled, defiled, oppressing city! It has listened to no voice; it has accepted no correction” (3:1-2). Jerusalem has become so self-exalting that the chosen city is no longer capable of hearing God’s voice.
God chose Israel to be a light to the world. God entrusted His laws to them on Mount Sinai so they could create a just, free, and fair society in covenant relationship with Him. By Zephaniah’s day, they were neglecting both the revelations of God and His fellowship. The world outside of Judah lacked a standard for moral and ethical behavior. And still, God held them accountable for their arrogance and violence. Judah, however, knew the ways of God. Therefore, God held them to an even higher standard.
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