Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: God's Just Demands (Focus on the Bible | FB)

by John L. MacKay

Publisher:

Christian Focus

, 1998

Overview

These prophets were writing during the seventh and eighth century B.C. The major prophetic themes of the destruction of Israel's enemies, the judgment of God upon Israel when she turns from him, and the peace that would result from living in harmony with God, are all here. There are also Messianic and future prophetic themes, such as the eternal reign of a king from the line of David (Micah) and the destruction of Jerusalem (Zephaniah). This fascinating period of Bible history is full of drama, wisdom and insight.

For each section of the Bible, the Focus on the Bible Commentaries summarize the passage of Scripture, including the intentions of the authors, the historical and cultural environment, and the questions and issues raised by a particular passage. But most importantly, the Focus on the Bible Commentaries brings you into the heart of the Bible, by explaining Scripture in an accessible way that makes sense for daily Christian living.

Key Features

• Chapter-by-chapter commentary
• Accessible and readable exposition
• Eminently useful for preaching, teaching, and both personal and group Bible study

Contents

Top Highlights

“The name used ‘Lord God’ is unusual. Although found in Genesis 2–4, it is not frequent elsewhere, and seems here to mark a deliberate change from Lord to God. Lord is the covenant name of God who has acted in mercy towards his people. This is particularly shown by his compassionate treatment of Jonah despite his fuming and reluctance to accept what God has done. The use of ‘God’ here and in 4:7–9 points to his action as the supreme ruler of all. He provides (see on 4:7) as he sees fit and as he alone can.” (Pages 66–67)

“He is the certain and unchanging one on whom his people may rely. In the uncertainty which the prophet is experiencing, he clings to what he is sure about concerning God. It is the Lord who is in control.” (Page 261)

“When God warns people of his impending judgment, it is with the aim that they will respond in time and be saved. ‘If at any time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down and destroyed, and if that nation I warned repents of its evil, then I will relent and not inflict on it the disaster I had planned’ (Jer. 18:7–8).” (Page 20)

“Jonah was the only Old Testament prophet we know about from Galilee (John 7:52), and he is the only Old Testament prophet to whom Jesus compares himself and his ministry (Matt. 12:39–41; Luke 11:29–32; see on 1:17).” (Page 19)

“Firstly Habakkuk looks back to the way in which the Lord had in the past intervened powerfully on behalf of his people. Then, on that basis, he prays that the Lord intervene again on behalf of his people.” (Page 299)

Product Details

• Title: Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah
• Author: John L. MacKay
• Series: Focus on the Bible Commentary
• Publisher: Christian Focus
• Print Publication Date: 1998
• Logos Release Date: 2011
• Pages: 420
• Era: era:contemporary
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subjects: Bible. O.T. Habakkuk › Commentaries; Bible. O.T. Jonah › Commentaries; Bible. O.T. Micah › Commentaries; Bible. O.T. Minor Prophets › Commentaries; Bible. O.T. Nahum › Commentaries; Bible. O.T. Zephaniah › Commentaries
• ISBNs: 9781845503451, 1845503457
• Resource ID: LLS:FOBC32JON
• Resource Type: Bible Commentary
• Metadata Last Updated: 2024-09-25T01:03:36Z

About John L. MacKay

John L. MacKay is internationally known as an Old Testament Scholar, and is in demand for church retreats where his skill in the practical exposition and application of doctrine are well respected. He is also the author of Haggai, Zechariah, & Malachi and Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, & Zephaniah in the Focus on the Bible Commentary.