When we began this study ten weeks ago, I hoped to do three per week. I failed miserably in reaching that goal. My harshest criticism of myself regarding this series, is that I did not do so. I feel like I have lost a lot of continuity by being so slow. I hoped to present this as a simple study of the minor prophets and to show how applicable their messages are right now to us in modern America. I am happy to say I think I have achieved that.

From the first to the last something in their Books has hit home with me. Remember this section from our review of the first six books?

Hosea:    The love of God even when his people play the prostitute role.

Joel:         Plague of locusts against wickedness and the prediction of the Day of Pentecost.

Amos:      The social justice prophet.  Luxury of the wealthy and victimhood of the poor.

Obadiah:  Esau’s linage forsake God and place faith in their location and allies.

Jonah:       God uses a disobedient man to save the city of Nineveh.

Micah:       What God requires of you.  Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.

Now let’s take a look at themes from the second half.

Nahum: God’s message to Nineveh that destruction is coming. Nahum’s message is alone in not offering the city any chance of redemption.

Habakkuk: Habakkuk questions God and God answers. The just shall live by faith

Zephaniah: Warning and judgment against nation. A promise to bring the Jews home.

Haggai: A call to build a temple and a promise that God’s glory would be there.

Zechariah: Like Haggai, he calls to build the temple. Administer justice, mercy, and compassion

Malachi: God is indignant at the slothfulness, greediness, and carelessness regarding sacrifices. He offers a special blessing for those who give in tithes and offerings. Test and see, he says.

After the Old Testament there is a period of four hundred years during which God did not speak to Israel via way of prophets or priests. That would be a cold, cold, time. Thank God that we live in a time of hearing from God by way of men/women through many avenues of media. However, having the Word of the Lord in our hands to read and apply to our own lives is a blessing that should not be taken for granted. Thank God, we can still learn via of the prophets of old!

Class is now dismissed. I do appreciate those of you who have attended each session. You all have the ability to look over your journals or look back at posts all of which are titled by the name of the prophet so easy to find on my “search.”

Yes, Cookie, I see your hand. Yes, you may stay late. 😀