The Message of Obadiah, Nahum and Zephaniah: The Kindness and Severity of God

Obadiah, Nahum and Zephaniah are probably among the least-read books of the Bible, andrarely preached. However, Gordon Bridger encourages us to study and apply these threeOld Testament prophets for several compelling reasons.As part of Scripture, endorsed by Jesus, they claim to bring a message from God, and teachus some major truths: the importance of focusing on God, who is personal, sovereign,righteous and loving; of facing up to sin and judgment; of responding in repentance andfaith; and of the hope of future salvation and restoration. They also relate to the real world, intouch with the social and political issues of their day (the seventh century BC), as well asspiritual and moral issues: sleaze amongst political leaders, unfaithfulness of religiousleaders, national and personal pride, crimes against humanity and persecution of God'speople.Hence, these challenging books tackle themes and issues, expounded here with clarity andconviction, which are especially relevant to today's church and world.