Zephaniah 3:14-20
“Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem. The LORD hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the king of Israel, even the LORD, is in the midst of thee: thou shalt not see evil any more.”
King James Version
The joyful song of Zion's final restoration with God himself dwelling in their midst, awaiting complete fulfillment.
Fulfillment References
John 1:14 Zechariah 2:10 Revelation 21:3
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal'The king of Israel, even the LORD, is in the midst of thee.' The King who comes to dwell in Zion's midst is the Lord Jesus — 'the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us' (John 1:14); God Himself in the midst of His people (Zech. 2:10; Rev. 21:3). The King of Israel and the LORD are one, and His name is Jesus.
JewishA jubilant promise that God will remove Israel's judgments, dwell in her midst as King, gather the outcasts, and restore her fortunes — pure consolation and joy.
CatholicGod dwelling in the midst of His people, fulfilled in the Incarnation and the indwelling presence, consummated when God dwells with men (Rev. 21:3).
ProtestantThe LORD as King in Zion's midst, fulfilled in Christ's coming and His presence with His people, and in the gathering of Israel.
AcademicA salvation oracle closing Zephaniah; the 'King in the midst' and the rejoicing-God imagery (v. 17) are striking expressions of divine presence and restoration after judgment.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, PhD · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.