Zephaniah starts like most of his contemporaries casting judgment on the wicked, especially the wicked nations. His words of passionate exhortation changes to compassion towards the “remnant.” This word is used three times between chapters 2 and 3. It is clear Zephaniah sees that God’s wrath will not be for all people. A small, remnant will ‘take refuge in the Lord’s name.’ This remnant is a hopeful reminder that even in the worst of things, there is still hope.