Definition: I said, Surely thou wilt fear me, thou wilt receive instruction; so their dwelling should not be cut off, howsoever I punished them: but they rose early, [and] corrupted all their doings.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zephaniah 3:7. It's a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about judgment and consequence. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Message: This verse describes a period of intense punishment for a people who were refusing to listen to God’s word and were actively breaking his rules. It warns that their actions will lead to significant repercussions. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I said, Surely thou wilt fear me…” : This is a direct address from God, expressing his power and severity. He’s declaring he intends to bring about a negative outcome. “…Thou wilt receive instruction…” : God isn't just threatening them; he’s offering a chance for repentance. He wants them to understand the consequences of their actions. “So their dwelling should not be cut off…” : This is the key part. God intends to punish them – to destroy their community, their homes, and their lives – because they refused to listen to him. It’s a clear statement of divine judgment. “…howsoever I punished them…” : This emphasizes that God's punishment isn't random or arbitrary. He is actively involved in bringing about this destruction. “But they rose early…” : This is significant. It suggests a deliberate and proactive effort to actively corrupt themselves. They weren’t just passively ignoring God; they were choosing to disobey him. “…and corrupted all their doings.” : This is the most dramatic part. The verse describes a complete and systematic turning away from God's will, leading them down a path of wickedness and rebellion. It means they engaged in everything that was wrong with God’s law – lying, stealing, violence, etc. Overall Interpretation: Zephaniah 3:7 paints a picture of a people who were defiant and actively rejecting God’s guidance. Their refusal to listen resulted in severe consequences for them – destruction, ruin, and a complete abandonment of their faith. It's a stark warning about the importance of obedience and the potential dangers of disobedience. Important Note: The context of Zephaniah 3:7 is important. It’s part of a larger message about God's judgment on Israel and the coming of His Messiah. It’s often interpreted as a prediction of future tribulations and ultimately, the salvation of Jesus Christ. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific aspect in more detail? Give you a more biblical context for this verse?