Nahum

Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the prophet.

      Nahum is given credit for writing this book (1:1). We know he lives in Elkosh and though his message is to Nineveh he lived in Judah. Therefore, his message is most likely written to Judah. At the time Judah was under king Manasseh, who was under the Assyrian king (1:12). The themes in this book are clearly hope and justice. Hope for the nation of Judah who is under Assyrian authority and justice for the wicked Assyrians in Nineveh. The primary reason this book was written is to give Judah hope of freedom even when Assyria was such a powerful force.

What does this book show about the character and nature of God?

      Nahum begins the book describing God. He says, “The Lord is a jealous God, filled with vengeance and rage. He takes revenge on all who oppose him and continues to rage against his enemies!” He goes on to say that God is slow to anger, great in power, faithful to punish the guilty, He is good, a strong refuge in troubled times, and He comes close to those who trust Him (1:2, 3, 7).

What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

      In the big picture of the book God shows His redemptive plan by giving hope for Judah. He says they will be restored (2:2, 3:15). He promises to unleash His wrath against the wicked people of Nineveh (2:1). He promises to, “break the yoke of bondage from your neck and tear off the chains of Assyrian oppression” (1:13). God says that there will be reason to rejoice and to celebrate, because at last His justice is coming and His redemption for them is at hand (1:15).