Commentary and articles concerning The Prophets of Israel. This section covers the office of the prophet, the distinction between Major and Minor Prophets, and the specific ministries of men like Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel. It explores their role in calling the nation to repentance and foretelling future events.
Elijah’s confrontation on Mount Carmel was a defining moment that forced Israel to choose between the Lord and false idols, demonstrating both God’s supremacy and the futility of Baal worship. Though the people momentarily acknowledged the Lord, their repentance was short-lived, foreshadowing Israel’s continued cycle of apostasy, judgment, and ultimate future restoration.
Moses’ farewell address was a final plea for Israel to remain faithful, warning of exile but also promising restoration. His words reveal God’s unbreakable covenant with Israel, pointing to their future redemption in the Millennial Kingdom.
Jonah’s preaching in Nineveh reveals God’s mercy toward the Gentiles, foreshadowing the global reach of the Gospel in the Church Age. This event stands as a powerful reminder that repentance leads to redemption, regardless of nationality.
Samuel’s farewell address at Saul’s coronation was both a warning and a prophecy, marking Israel’s transition from theocracy to monarchy. His words foreshadowed Israel’s future rejection of Christ as their King, demonstrating that human leadership can never replace divine rule.
Jeremiah’s Temple Sermon confronted Judah’s false security in religious rituals, warning that the temple itself would not protect them from judgment if they continued in sin. Though destruction was imminent, God’s covenantal promises remained, ensuring that one day Israel would be restored and recognize Him as their true King.
Elisha’s prophecy to Jehoram and Jehoshaphat reveals God’s mercy despite Israel’s failures. The miraculous provision of water and victory over Moab foreshadow God’s greater redemptive plan, proving that He remains faithful even when His people fall short.
John the Baptist’s preaching called Israel to repentance and prepared the way for the coming of Christ. His message emphasized the need for true spiritual renewal, foreshadowing the kingdom Israel would one day fully embrace.
Haggai’s prophecy rebuked Israel for neglecting God’s house, calling them to prioritize obedience over personal comfort. This passage foreshadows Israel’s future restoration, when they will fully return to the Lord and rebuild His temple in the Millennial Kingdom.
Isaiah’s vision of God’s holiness led to his prophetic commission, warning of Israel’s judgment yet also pointing to their future restoration. This passage foreshadows both Israel’s exile and their eventual redemption under Christ.
The Old Testament history of Israel and Judah highlights the interplay between kings, prophets, and divine discipline, illustrating God’s justice and faithfulness. Despite their failures, God preserved a remnant and promises a future restoration in the Millennial Kingdom.
Jotham’s Parable of the Trees Choosing a King exposes the foolishness of selecting self-serving rulers over righteous leaders. His warning to Shechem remains a timeless lesson—leadership matters, and God ultimately holds all rulers accountable.
Jannes and Jambres, the Egyptian magicians who opposed Moses, represent the persistent resistance to God’s truth. Their story reminds believers of the dangers of deception and the ultimate triumph of God’s sovereignty over falsehood.
The story of Elisha and the unseen army in 2 Kings 6:17 reveals God’s unseen power and protection over His people. This account reminds believers today that, though we may not see God’s interventions with our physical eyes, He is always present and sovereignly working in our lives.
Recognizing literary devices in Scripture adds depth and richness to our understanding of God’s Word. While not essential for grasping biblical truths, identifying these tools enhances our study and appreciation of the beauty of the Bible.
Malachi’s prophecy of Elijah highlights a mission of reconciliation and restoration, partially fulfilled in John the Baptist and awaiting ultimate completion in the end times. This dual fulfillment underscores God’s sovereignty and calls believers to spiritual readiness for the return of Christ.