2018, December 16 ~ Zephaniah 3:14-20; and Philippians 4:4-7

Zephaniah 3:14-20

Zephaniah is one of the 12 “Minor” Prophets, so-called because their works form a single scroll in the Hebrew Bible, as compared to the longer works of the “Major” Prophets – Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel.

Zephaniah was a prophet to Judea during the reign of the good King Josiah (640-609 BCE) who instituted most of the Deuteronomic reforms, particularly centralizing worship at the Temple in Jerusalem. Because Zephaniah prophesied against many practices prohibited by Deuteronomy (particularly worship of gods other than YHWH), his prophesy is generally dated to the period just before Josiah’s reforms began in 621 BCE. The Book is only three chapters, and most of the Book concerns the Day of the Lord in which YHWH will pour out his anger on the people for worshiping other gods.

Today’s reading is from the last half of Chapter 3, where the message shifted to oracles of salvation. Just before today’s reading, the prophet said the “proudly exultant ones” will be removed and only the humble and lowly will be left.

The people are urged to rejoice because YHWH is in their midst, will overcome Judea’s oppressors, gather the exiles together, and make the Judeans renowned.

Philippians 4:4-7

Philippi was a major city in Macedonia on the Roman road to Byzantium (Istanbul). Most of its inhabitants were Roman citizens. Paul had a deep affection for the Jesus Followers in Philippi and thanked them for gifts sent to him in prison (4:18).

At the end of Chapter 3, he told them that “we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” who will “transform our humble body that it may be conformed to the body of his glory.”

In today’s reading, Paul urged the Philippians to rejoice and let their gentleness be known by all for the Lord is near. They should not worry but should pray, and the peace of God which passes all understanding will guard their hearts and minds.