Obadiah, Nahum and Zephaniah are probably among the least-read books of the Bible, and rarely preached. However, Gordon Bridger encourages us to study and apply these three Old Testament prophets for several compelling reasons. As part of Scripture, endorsed by Jesus, they claim to bring a message from God, and teach us 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 and faith; and of the hope of future salvation and restoration. They also relate to the real world, in touch with the social and political issues of their day (the seventh century BC), as well as spiritual and moral issues: sleaze amongst political leaders, unfaithfulness of religious leaders, national and personal pride, crimes against humanity and persecution of God's people. Hence, these challenging books tackle themes and issues, expounded here with clarity and conviction, which are especially relevant to today's church and world.
