Lecture Notes: Understanding the Prophets in the Bible

Introduction to the Bible

• The Bible is a collection of books divided into two main sections:
  • Old Testament: Focuses on the relationship between the ancient nation of Israel and their God.
  • New Testament: Concentrates on the ministry and teachings of Jesus and his followers.
• The Prophets belong to the Old Testament.

Understanding Prophets and Prophecy

• Prophet: A spokesperson for God, addressing nations or individuals.
• Prophecy: Often misunderstood as solely future predictions; in the Bible, it includes past, present, and future.
  • Past: Israel's historical relationship with God.
  • Present: Critique of current disloyalties and social injustices.
  • Future: Promises of peace and justice.

Key Biblical Themes in Prophecy

• Exodus: Central to understanding prophecy; it represents God rescuing Israel and the establishment of the law.
• Disloyalty and Injustice: Prophets often address Israel’s worship of other gods and societal injustices.
• God’s Judgments: Prophets assure that both positive and negative divine promises will be fulfilled.

Books of the Prophets

• Historical Groupings:
  • Nevian (Prophets of Scripture in Jesus' Time):
    • Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the Twelve.
  • Modern Christian Bible:
    • Begins with Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Minor Prophets like Hosea, Joel, Amos, etc.
  • Difference in Grouping:
    • Former Prophets (historical accounts) vs. Latter Prophets (future anticipations).
    • Major Prophets vs. Minor Prophets

Major Themes in Prophecy

1. Israel's Land:
   • Discusses the loss and potential restoration of the land.
2. Court Cases Against Nations:
   • Addresses the violence and oppression by other nations and Israel itself.
3. God’s Judgment:
   • Pronounced on nations and Israel for their wrongdoings.
4. Restoration Promises:
   • Israel Restored: Anticipation of a Messiah from David’s line.
   • Eden Restored: Vision of a worldwide peace and justice, aligning humanity with God.

Additional Resources

• For more information, visit Overview Bible and read Jeffrey's book, "The Beginner's Guide to the Bible."
• Subscribe to the Overview Bible YouTube channel for more educational videos.

Conclusion

• Understanding these themes and groupings gives a clearer picture of the prophets’ messages in the Bible.