Reflective Essay_Zephaniah

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Arkansas Tech University *

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Jan 9, 2024

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Reflective Essay: Zephaniah Justin Schalow OBST520-D09: Old Testament Orientation II December 15, 2023
Contents The Unique Timing, Place, and Impact of My Prophet……………………….………………1 My Unique Timing, Place, and Impact…………………………………………………………2 Bibliography……………………………………………………………………………………...4 ii
1 The Unique Timing, Place, and Impact of My Prophet In the narrative of God's redemptive plan, the timing of His salvific work is pivotal, and Zephaniah, akin to other prophets, played a vital role in revealing God's intentions amid the transgressions of His people. The prophet's revelations unfolded in the backdrop of rampant idolatry before the reforms instituted by King Josiah. The descriptions of idolatry in Zephaniah's message were included as a stark portrayal, anticipating Josiah's transformative reforms. The disclosure of a looming dreadful event was God's response to the unrepentant state of His children. Zephaniah directed his prophetic warnings to Judah and Jerusalem, foretelling a terrifying judgment orchestrated by the Babylonians. This judgment, though worldwide in scope, primarily targeted God's covenant community. Despite the urgency of the message, the people's reluctance to repent persisted, evoking frustration in the prophet. In Zephaniah 3:1, he laments the rebellious and undisciplined city that refuses to obey. Amid this backdrop, Zephaniah's prophetic ministry during Josiah's reign held strategic significance. It was a period marked by societal forgetfulness of God's ways, characterized by pride, idolatry, and the oppression of the poor. 1 The prophet's choice of words and language served as a moving wake-up call, signaling that the impending judgment wasn't reserved solely for external enemies but encompassed all of humanity. The reforms initiated by King Josiah temporarily delayed the impending judgment, offering a window for repentance. This dialogue between Zephaniah and the people mirrors a larger redemptive plan, wherein God's justice will ultimately be executed, and a refuge will be provided for those who 1 Robert B. Chisholm Jr., Handbook on the Prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Minor Prophets (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 443.
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