Zephaniah 1:6

and those who turn back from following the LORD, neither seeking the LORD nor inquiring of Him."

Study Bible

and those who turn back from following the LORD,
This phrase addresses apostasy, a recurring theme in the Old Testament where the Israelites repeatedly turned away from God. Historically, this was a time of spiritual decline in Judah, likely during the reign of King Josiah before his reforms. The act of turning back implies a deliberate choice to abandon the covenant relationship with God, which was central to Israel's identity. This echoes the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28 about the consequences of forsaking the LORD. The concept of turning back is also seen in the New Testament, such as in Hebrews 10:38-39, where believers are warned against shrinking back in faith.

neither seeking the LORD
Seeking the LORD involves actively pursuing a relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and obedience. In the cultural context of ancient Judah, seeking God was often associated with going to the temple, offering sacrifices, and adhering to the Law. The failure to seek God indicates a neglect of these practices and a lack of desire for His presence and guidance. This neglect is condemned in other prophetic writings, such as Isaiah 55:6, which urges people to seek the LORD while He may be found. The call to seek God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of a personal and communal relationship with Him.

nor inquiring of Him.
Inquiring of the LORD refers to seeking His will and guidance, often through prayer or consulting a prophet. This was a common practice in Israel's history, as seen in the actions of leaders like David (1 Samuel 23:2). The failure to inquire of God suggests a reliance on human wisdom or foreign gods, which was prevalent in Zephaniah's time due to the influence of surrounding nations and their deities. This neglect of divine guidance is a form of spiritual arrogance and self-sufficiency, which is condemned throughout the Bible. The importance of inquiring of God is underscored in James 1:5, where believers are encouraged to ask God for wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zephaniah
A prophet in the Old Testament, Zephaniah's ministry took place during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. His prophecies focus on the coming judgment of God and the need for repentance.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which is the primary audience of Zephaniah's prophecies. The people of Judah are warned about their spiritual complacency and idolatry.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who desires a relationship with His people and calls them to faithfulness and repentance.

4. Apostasy
The act of turning away from following the LORD, which is a central theme in this verse. It highlights the spiritual decline and unfaithfulness of the people.

5. Judgment Day
An event prophesied by Zephaniah, where God will execute judgment on those who have turned away from Him, emphasizing the urgency of repentance.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Spiritual Complacency
Spiritual complacency can lead to turning away from God. Believers must remain vigilant in their faith and continually seek the LORD.

The Importance of Seeking God
Actively seeking God is crucial for maintaining a strong relationship with Him. This involves prayer, studying Scripture, and being part of a faith community.

Repentance and Return
God calls His people to repentance. Turning back to God involves acknowledging our sins and making a conscious decision to follow Him wholeheartedly.

Consequences of Apostasy
Turning away from God has serious consequences, both spiritually and in terms of divine judgment. Understanding this can motivate believers to remain faithful.

God's Desire for Relationship
Despite human unfaithfulness, God desires a relationship with His people. His call to seek Him is an invitation to experience His love and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day examples of turning away from following the LORD, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does the call to seek the LORD in Zephaniah 1:6 compare to other biblical calls to seek God, such as in Isaiah 55:6?

3. In what ways can we actively seek the LORD in our daily lives, and what practices can help us avoid spiritual complacency?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. What steps did you take to return to Him, and how did that experience strengthen your faith?

5. How can understanding the consequences of apostasy, as described in Zephaniah, motivate us to remain faithful in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 2:13
This verse speaks of the people forsaking God, the "spring of living water," and digging their own cisterns, which parallels the turning away from God mentioned in Zephaniah 1:6.

Isaiah 55:6
Encourages seeking the LORD while He may be found, contrasting with the neglect to seek God in Zephaniah 1:6.

Hebrews 11:6
Highlights the importance of faith and earnestly seeking God, which is the opposite of the behavior criticized in Zephaniah 1:6.