One of the big themes of the prophets is hearing and obeying the word of the Lord. As meditation literature, the Old Testament is best read through daily reading, absorbing, pondering as we think about God’s future King (Jesus) and how to live as his people (Covenant).
Given this, to help you get the most out of this series, we encourage you to spend time listening to God’s voice in his word to prepare yourself before each Sunday’s teaching by doing two things:
- Watching the Bible Project overview of each prophet (See below for links).
- Reading the whole of the prophets words.
TIMELINE
JONAH
Israel before exile
- Date: 760BC
- Dominant Empire: Assyria
- Themes: Warning and mercy
ZEPHANIAH
Judah before exile.
- Date: 630BC
- Dominant Empire: Babylon
- Themes: Judgment and restoration
JOEL
Likely post exile, but not too certain.
- Date: Uncertain.
- Dominant Empire: Unknown
- Themes: Welcome and anger
HAGGAI
Returned from exile, united, and rebuilding the temple.
- Date: 520BC
- Dominant Empire: Persia
- Themes: Exile and holiness
MALACHI
Returned from exile and in need spiritual renewal.
- Date: 440BC
- Dominant Empire: Persia
- Themes: Rebellion and loves