Nahum, Habakkuk

Study Guide / Outline

Description: The sermon explores the prophetic messages of Nahum and Habakkuk, highlighting God’s justice, covenant faithfulness, and the righteous response of faith. Both prophets address the problem of evil and divine judgment, ultimately pointing to comfort and confidence in God’s character.

Description: Nahum likely prophesied between the mid-600s and early 600s BC, during the reign of King Josiah. His message is set against the backdrop of Assyrian oppression, particularly from the capital city, Nineveh. Nahum’s name means “comfort,” which reflects the purpose of his prophecy: Nahum proclaims the fall of Nineveh as both divine judgment and covenantal comfort for God’s people, and ultimately the Assyrian threat is eliminated by God’s sovereign justice.
Main Points:
- God’s Judgment on Nineveh – Nineveh’s destruction is a manifestation of God’s justice against prolonged wickedness.
- Covenant Faithfulness – God’s promise to protect His people is seen in the elimination of their long-time oppressor.
- Comfort Through Judgment – The fall of Nineveh is not merely revenge but a divine act of reassurance to Judah.
Scripture References: Nahum 1:1–15, Nahum 2:1–13, Nahum 3:1–19, Matthew 16:18

Description: God’s dual nature of mercy and justice is emphasized. While He is a refuge to His people, He is also a consuming force against the wicked.
Main Points:
- Mercy and Justice – God shelters the righteous while simultaneously judging the wicked.
- Rejection of Shallow Repentance – Nineveh’s temporary repentance during Jonah’s time did not lead to lasting transformation.
- Divine Sovereignty – God’s actions affirm His authority over nations and history.
Scripture References: Nahum 1:2–7, Jonah 3:1–10, Nahum 3:5–7

Description: Habakkuk’s message revolves around living by faith and understanding God’s justice. His prophecy begins with questions about the silence and perceived inaction of God, as the prophet wrestles with the existence of unchecked evil. This section discusses Habakkuk’s questioning of God, asking why sin often goes unpunished and why the wicked prosper.
Main Points:
- Honest Questioning – Habakkuk’s sincere questions reflect a heart seeking understanding, not rebellion.
- God Welcomes Dialogue – God answers the prophet, illustrating that revelation follows reverence and honesty.
- Sin Will Be Judged – God’s response assures that the rise of the Chaldeans is part of His plan to judge wickedness.
Scripture References: Habakkuk 1:1–6, Habakkuk 1:13, James 1:5

Description: Habakkuk is shown the contrast between the proud and the righteous. The proud are self-reliant and will be judged, while the just live by faith and find life.
Main Points:
- Eternal Relevannce – We find a central theme throughout the entire Bible rooted in Habakkuk 2:4, where it states that the just shall live by faith.
- God’s Timely Justice – Although judgment seems delayed, God’s justice is certain and will be executed in due time.
Scripture References: Habakkuk 2:4, Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:38

Description: Habakkuk ends with a psalm affirming unwavering trust in God despite circumstances. The prophet rejoices in God’s salvation, regardless of outward lack.
Main Points:
- Confidence in God – True rest and joy come from trust in God, not from external success.
- Rejoicing Amid Lack – Habakkuk models faith that persists even in famine and crisis.
- Revelation from the Source – The key to trust is seeking answers directly from God, which builds true confidence.
Scripture References: Habakkuk 3:1–19, Habakkuk 3:16–18

Description: Nahum and Habakkuk provide a powerful message: God is just, and the righteous must live by faith. Despite oppression, judgment, or apparent delays, God’s character guarantees vindication for His people and justice for the wicked.

Lesson Content