Lesson 7: A Message from Nahum

Pay Attention! God is in Charge

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of Trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” Nahum 1:7 
“The Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished.” Nahum 1:3

Historical Setting

Nahum, a prophet of God, was given the assignment to preach to the Israelites of the coming destruction of Ninevah, Assyria’s capital city. This occurred around 606 B.C. Ninevah/Assyria seemed invincible. They had complete domination of the world at that time. Ninevah was a great city—built powerfully strong. The walls around the city were one hundred feet high and wide enough for three chariots to drive abreast the top of them. Around these huge walls was a wide, deep moat. Ninevah saw herself as impregnable. Assyria’s army was cruel, brutal and ruthless. They continually sought glory by war and oppression. Nahum’s task was to tell the Israelites that God, not Assyria, was in charge; that they should not be intimidated by this terrible enemy. God is all-powerful, and He wanted them to turn their attention back to Him and trust that He would take care of them. Ninevah was about to see that awesome power take over!

Personal Reflections

Today, when we see the United States as the number one super power of the world, is there arrogance, a boasting, that God has blessed us and will keep us in our exalted position because we are righteous and good? Rather, may we humble ourselves before God and ask for his mercy and forgiveness. Let history teach us a lesson! God alone delivers and destroys. He is in charge; we are not.

Outline of Book

I. The majesty of God; His goodness to His people, and severity against His enemies. Chapter One.
II. The fearful and victorious armies of God against Ninevah. Chapter Two.
III. The miserable ruin of Ninevah. Chapter Three.

The Two Faces of God

Nahum 1:2-6 
Jealous
Avenging
Maintains Wrath
Rebukes
Nahum 1:7
Good
Our Refuge
Cares For Us
Wants Us to Trust Him

God is the same today in the Twenty-First Century as when Nahum described Him in the Seventh Century B.C.

As you read the book of Nahum this week, ask these questions - -

1. Is there a limit to the patience of God?

2. Is there a relationship between God’s wrath and His Love?

3. Do the “wages of sin” apply to nations as well as to individuals?

4. Does God have an eternal purpose for the people of the World?

- Andee Cone & Virgil Lawyer

(Andee Cone is a member at PV and enjoys discussions with her dad, Virgil Lawyer, a retired Harding University History teacher, and missionary to Japan, and voracious reader.)