Historical & Biblical Background
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Nahum prophesied between 660–630 B.C. to Judah, about Nineveh (capital of Assyria).
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The Assyrians were infamous for their cruelty, oppression, and idolatry.
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Though they once repented under Jonah, they returned to wickedness; Nahum declared that God’s judgment was imminent.
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In 612 B.C., Nineveh was destroyed exactly as Nahum foretold.
Central Themes
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God’s Sovereignty
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God reigns over all nations, history, and people.
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Nations rise and fall according to His will.
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His sovereignty is both comforting and fearsome—He is faithful to His covenant and just in His judgment.
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God’s Wrath and Justice
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God’s wrath is His righteous response to evil, injustice, idolatry, and cruelty.
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He is slow to anger but not indefinitely patient; His justice eventually comes.
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Nahum reminds us that God’s wrath is good news for the oppressed—He defends victims of injustice.
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God’s Goodness and Mercy
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“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble” (Nahum 1:7).
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God’s judgment and mercy coexist; His justice expresses His goodness.
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Those who take refuge in Him find deliverance and peace.
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Lessons for Today
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National Accountability: God judges not only individuals but also nations for systemic evil.
The preacher referenced examples such as slavery in America, quoting Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address as acknowledgment of divine justice. -
Personal Application: God’s wrath against sin also applies to individuals. Every person must seek refuge in Christ, who bore God’s wrath for our sin.
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The Gospel: Jesus’ death and resurrection satisfy God’s justice and reveal His goodness. Refuge in Christ brings forgiveness and eternal life.
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God’s Nature: Nahum’s book reveals that God is both just and good—His holiness, wrath, and mercy all flow from His perfect character.