| Former half | Relation | Latter half |
| 1 The coming judgment on Judah (1:1-18) I will destroy mankind from the face of the earth (1:3) | Ruined by the LORD | 5 A song of joy (3:14-20) Yes, at that time I will deal with all who oppress you; I will save the lame, and assemble the outcasts; (3:19) |
| 2 The great day of the LORD (2:1-4) Before there comes upon you the day of the LORD'S anger (2:2) | The day of LORD's wrath | 4 Punishment and conversion of the nations (3:1-13) against the day when I arise as accuser; For it is my decision to gather together the nations, to assemble the kingdoms, In order to pour out upon them my wrath, all my blazing anger; (3:8) |
| Former half | Relation | Latter half |
| 1 The coming judgment on Judah (1:1-18) 1:2 I will completely sweep away all things from the face of the earth, says the LORD. 1:3 I will sweep away man and beast, I will sweep away the birds of the sky, and the fishes of the sea. I will overthrow the wicked; I will destroy mankind from the face of the earth, (1:2-3) | Destroying every one | 3 Judgment on Israel's enemies (2:5-15) I will humble you, land of the Philistines, and leave you to perish without an inhabitant! (2:5) |
| Former half | Relation | Latter half |
| 3 Judgment on Israel's enemies (2:5-15) For the LORD their God shall visit them, and bring about their restoration. (2:7) | Restoration | 5 A song of joy (3:14-20) At that time I will bring you home, and at that time I will gather you; For I will give you renown and praise, among all the peoples of the earth (3:20) |