READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary l Most of the book of Zephaniah is focused on woes and warnings to the people of God. However, in chapter 3, hope shines forth. God has not forgotten His people. He will restore them and hence, there can be rejoicing. God’s love for His people is the theme of verses 14-20. The first four of these verses speak of God’s goodness and in the remaining verses, God speaks directly to the remnant of Israel. He reassures us, even today, that He is in our midst. Therefore, fear not.
God is in your midst (vs. 14-15). In vs. 14, there are four imperatives: sing; shout aloud; be glad and rejoice. There are also three vocatives: O Daughter of Zion; O Israel and O Daughter of Jerusalem. In this verse, God is commanding us to be joyful. Is it possible to command someone to be joyful, especially if the person is hurting and suffering? Zephaniah explains why this is possible. Twice, the phrase “is with you” is given to remind us that God is in our midst. His presence renders ineffective all powers of evil and harm. Matt 1:23, quoting Isaiah 7:14, reiterates the fact that God is with us. If we live under His protection and receive His forgiveness, what is there to fear? We are safe and secure in His hands. God surrounds His people both now and forever (Ps 125:1-2). There is no need to look for any other source of help. We can rejoice. Let us confidently look to God, our constant companion, who walks with us and watches over us.
He is mighty to save (vs.16-17). We are on the same side as our Victorious Warrior. Indeed, “If God is for us, who can be against us? (Rom 8;31). However, we sometimes take on our problems and become worried instead of trusting God. God does calm the storm, but He also allows the storm to rage so that He can calm His children. Are we battling some issues at home or at work, concerns with our health or relationships? Remember that God can do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. God is cheered and beams with exceeding joy, taking pleasure in our presence. What a Mighty and loving God we serve!
He will make you renown (vs. 18-20). In these verses, God speaks intimately and personally to us. His acts of grace are recounted. He will gather and restore His people back to their land. Sorrow and reproach will be removed. He promises relief for the grief they have borne. As the people rejoice, God is glorified. These promises are sealed with a pledge by God. The nations will all see the works of God as His people are restored.
In this season of Advent, let us hope in God’s promises, remembering that no one is beyond His reach. Our loving God rejoices and sings when people humbly receive His Gospel.
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
A. God Is In Your Midst (v14-15)
- What role does worship and rejoicing (as in verse 14) play in overcoming fear? How can you make rejoicing in the Lord a daily practice, even in difficult
times? - What fears or anxieties have been weighing on your heart recently? How might God’s promises in this passage speak to those fears?
- How often do you pause to recognise God’s presence “in your midst”? What could help you become more aware of His nearness in your daily life?
B. He Is Mighty To Save (v16-17)
- Verse 16 says, “Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands hang limp.” What kinds of fears or challenges might make our hands “hang limp” in life?
- How has God shown His might and saving power in your life recently? Share one area of life where you need to trust God more deeply.
- If you truly believed that God is mighty to save and delights in you (verse 17), how would it change the way you approach your daily life, relationships, or decisions?
C. He Will Make You Renown (v18-20)
- Verses 18-20 speak of God gathering the outcasts, removing shame, and restoring His people. What does this promise of restoration mean to you
personally? - In what areas of your life do you long for restoration? How can these verses give you hope?
- How can you reflect God’s heart by encouraging someone in your community who is struggling with fear or insecurity?