1. Survey of the Old Testament
Chapter 41
Zephaniah

2. The Writing of the Book The Background Dated during Josiah's reign
Fall of Assyrian and rise of Babylon
The Background
Apostasy under Manasseh, followed by reform under Josiah
Photo: "I will cut off from this place… those who bow down on the roofs to worship the starry host" (Zeph. 1:4-5). This boundary marker depicts the major gods in their astral forms.

3. Structure and Organization
Purpose and Message
To initiate change in Judah by announcing God's judgment on wickedness
Structure and Organization
Oracles against the nations, including Judah
Major Theme
The Day of the Lord
Photo: Zephaniah warned that "Gaza will be abandoned and Ashkelon left in ruins" (2:4). These are some of the ruins at Ashkelon.