Zephaniah 3:14-17

Sing, O daughter of Zion.

Joy: human and Divine

Here is a call to the regenerated inhabitants of Jerusalem to exult in the mercy of God, who has wrought their deliverance.

I. The joy of the regenerated man.

1. The joy of gratitude for the deliverance from evil.

2. The joy of conscious security.

II. The joy of the regenerating God. The joy of infinite benevolence. In this joy the redeemed will participate. (Homilist.)

Exhortation to joy

These words form the basis of an exhortation to joy, and are given as the reason why the Church should rejoice for her salvation, accomplished by her Saviour.

I. The great deliverance of the church.

1. The deliverer is God in Christ.

2. Her captivity, lying under judgment.

3. Imprisoned by her enemies.

4. The removal of her judgment by Christ.

5. And victory obtained over her foes.

II. Her blessed state after deliverance.

1. God is in the midst of the Church.

2. As a mighty king to protect her.

3. As a wise prince to govern her.

4. As the father of all His people, to provide for all their wants.

Hence we naturally suppose that, being thus blessed, they will gather round Him, depend upon Him, fight for Him, and live and die with Him.

III. Her promised prospects. “Not see evil any more.”

1. Sin shall not destroy her.

2. Satan shall not prevail against her.

3. The world shall not ruin her.

4. The law cannot condemn her.

IV. Her appointed proceedings. “Let not thine hands be slack.”

1. We are commanded not to fear, either Satan, the world, sin, the law, the anger of God, or wrath to come.

2. We are to be courageous. Inferences. See what encouragement--

(1) For earnestness in prayer.

(2) Diligence in reading.

(3) Constancy in hearing.

(4) Faithfulness in reproving.

(5) Boldness in standing out for Christ, and the truth of His Gospel. (T. B. Baker.)