Judgment and Relenting Love in the Minor Prophets

Theologian and reformer John Calvin turned to the Minor Prophets and their proclamation of God’s heart in his defense of Scripture’s unity and church’s continuity through the ages. In his commentary on the Minor Prophets, Calvin claimed that the church in the 16th century was part of the same history developing in the Minor Prophets, and God works within this unified history “as though it were a theatre.”

In our study of the Minor Prophets, we’ll see that their teaching is as relevant to us today as it was to Calvin and his contemporaries. As we read from all the 12 Minor Prophets, we’ll note that they disclose little about themselves and the events in their lives. Instead, their focus is the God of Israel. This month in Today in the Word, thanks to the faithfulness and courage of these ancient prophets, we’ll learn about the God of judgment and salvation, of rescue and of battle. We’ll praise the God who speaks, promises, and restores. And ultimately, we’ll marvel at His great, relenting love!

We pray that your love for God will grow deeper this month as you study this Scripture. We hope the prophets’ warnings, exhortations, and promises will speak to the issues of your life and into your heart. Thank you for studying with us!

—Elena Mafter, Senior Editor