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Habakkuk 3:1–19
Introduction Habakkuk 3 is a response psalm to the powerful revelations given to Habakkuk by God in the earlier chapters. Faced with the certainty of Babylon’s invasion, Habakkuk turns to the Lord in prayerful song, recounting His mighty works in creation and salvation throughout history. The psalm crescendos with a confident declaration of joy in…
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Habakkuk 2:6–20
Introduction Habakkuk 2:6–20 contains God’s response to Habakkuk’s confusion and discouragement over His sovereign plans. God declares five woes against Babylon, proclaiming judgment on their arrogance, violence, and idolatry. Through these woes, God assures Habakkuk of His sovereign justice: He will use Babylon as His instrument for judgment, but He will also hold them accountable…
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Habakkuk 1:1–2:5
Introduction The book of Habakkuk reveals a raw and honest dialogue between the prophet and God. Habakkuk questions God’s justice amidst Israel’s rampant sin and God’s surprising response to use Babylon—a far more wicked nation—as His instrument of judgment. God’s message to Habakkuk is both challenging and comforting: the sovereignly just God will enforce His…
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Haggai 2:10–23
Introduction Haggai’s third sermon, delivered to post-exile Israel, emphasizes the necessity of consecrated hearts and hands for accomplishing God’s purposes. He reminds them of their past fruitlessness due to covenant unfaithfulness, assures them of God’s promise to bless their faithful obedience, and points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s kingdom through His chosen Savior King.…
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Haggai 2:1–9
Introduction Haggai delivers his second sermon to post-exile Israel as they rebuild the temple. Amid their discouragement, he reminds them of God’s past faithfulness, present presence, and future promises, urging them to press on in building His house. Key Points Haggai 2:1 In the seventh month, on the twenty-first day of the month, the word…
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Haggai 1:1–15
Introduction The book of Haggai begins with a call for God’s people to consider their misplaced priorities and align their actions with His will. Post-exile Jews, who were rebuilding the temple, had stopped prioritizing God’s house. Through Haggai, God reminds them that when His people obey Him and prioritize His purposes over their own, He…
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Joel 3:1–21
Introduction Joel 3 transitions from the restoration of Judah to a prophecy of God’s judgment on the nations. The chapter focuses on the “Valley of Jehoshaphat,” a symbolic location where God will execute justice on behalf of His people. This judgment emphasizes God’s righteousness, His empathy for His people’s suffering, and His ultimate promise to…
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Joel 2:18–32
Introduction Joel 2:18–32 continues the narrative of restoration following repentance. After describing the devastating consequences of sin and the call to heartfelt repentance, this section transitions to the blessings of restoration and God’s promise to pour out His Spirit. The passage highlights God’s bountiful mercy that restores the repentant far more than what they have…
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Joel 2:1–17
Introduction Joel 2:1–17 describes a coming “Day of the Lord,” characterized by God’s terrifying judgment. The prophet uses vivid imagery to warn the people of Judah about the consequences of sin and calls them to repentance. This section highlights the nature of divine judgment, the inevitability of God’s justice, and His invitation to return to…
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Joel 1:1–20
Introduction The Book of Joel is one of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament. Chapter 1 begins with a vivid and dire description of a calamity—a locust plague that devastates the land of Judah. This chapter sets the stage for the themes of judgment, repentance, and restoration, which dominate the book. Joel’s prophecy combines…