Jerusalem symbolizes the entire nation of Judah. Zephaniah pronounces woe not only on Jerusalem but the nation of Judah. They were the Lord's own people, but they did not obey him. Although the Lord tried to correct his people, they accepted no correction. They didn't trust in their creator and provider. Even her priests and prophets were "treacherous" people! Yet the Lord is always righteous. He dispenses justice without fail. The Lord's own people should have seen the contrast between themselves and their Lord. It should have made them repent, but they remained unrepentant. They refused to return to their faithful, righteous judge.

When the Lord judges, his righteous judgment is on sin. He does this to purify his people. Why? So that they may call on the name of the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. The Lord takes away the punishment of all who repent, return to him, and call on his name. He cleanses us of our sins and restores us as his own.


Application: Lord, you are faithful to your people. You are also our righteous judge. Help us to return to you, repent and call on your name.
One Word: The Lord is our righteous savior