The major theme of Zephaniah is the day of Yhwh. It will come upon the whole world as a fiery de-creation event. The only way to be hidden on this day of wrath is to seek Yhwh in all humility. This eschatological day is prefigured by historical judgments of both Judah and the nations. However, the day of Yhwh is also a day of restoration, for both Israel and the nations. Yhwh will reign as King of Israel from Zion over all the nations, who will become his worshippers along with Israel. Standing behind this dominant theme of the day of Yhwh is the theme of covenant. The historical day of Yhwh judgment on Israel is a covenant judgment for violating the Mosaic covenant. The eschatological day of Yhwh judgment comes with expiring of the Noahic covenant. And the inclusion of the nations among the worshippers of Yhwh is in fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant.
The Blog of Brian Collins