Zephaniah
1 The LORD gave this message to Zephaniah when Josiah son of Amon was king of Judah. Zephaniah was the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah. 2 “I will sweep away everything from the face of the earth,” says the LORD. 3 “I will sweep away people and animals alike. and I will wipe humanity from the face of the earth,” says the LORD. 4 “I will crush Judah and Jerusalem with my fist so that even the memory of them will disappear. 5 For they go up to their roofs but then they worship Molech, too. 6 And I will destroy those who used to worship me or seek my blessings.” 7 Stand in silence in the presence of the Sovereign LORD, and has chosen their executioners. 8 “On that day of judgment,” and all those following pagan customs. 9 Yes, I will punish those who participate in pagan worship ceremonies, and those who fill their masters’ houses with violence and deceit. 10 “On that day,” says the LORD, And a great crash will sound from the hills. 11 Wail in sorrow, all you who live in the market area, for all the merchants and traders will be destroyed. 12 “I will search with lanterns in Jerusalem’s darkest corners either good or bad. 13 So their property will be plundered, but never drink wine from them. 14 “That terrible day of the LORD is near. a day when even strong men will cry out. 15 It will be a day when the LORD’s anger is poured out— a day of clouds and blackness, 16 a day of trumpet calls and battle cries. and the strongest battlements! 17 “Because you have sinned against the LORD, and your bodies will lie rotting on the ground.” 18 Your silver and gold will not save you of all the people on earth.