LESSON 36 THE BOOK OF HABAKKUK
The name Habakkuk means embrace and applies to the prophet's character during difficult times. When referring to himself, he is regarded as "the prophet" which may or may not imply a prominent position. Habakkuk was a contemporary of Jeremiah, prophesying during the reign of Jehoiakim between 609 and 605 BC.
This writing is poetic and a Hebrew classic. Some feel that Habakkuk may have been more of a writer than a preacher. This prophet functioned in a different capacity than his contemporaries and had his own prophetical concerns. Habakkuk questions why does God allow this evil to exist? How is it that God can allow Israel to go on in this state? God answers these questions and explains the consequences.
SURVEY OF HABAKKUK
The Prophet's Problems 1
The Prophet's Proclamations 2 -3
The Prophet's Problems - Chapter 1
From the depths of this prophets heart, a cry goes forth to God. How long will God allow these things to go on without saving Israel? Habakkuk 1:2___________________________________
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God answers by first reminding the prophet of his involvement in the affairs of man and nations.
Habakkuk 1:5__________________________________________________________________
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God declares that he would raise up evil to destroy the evil doings of Israel. Habakkuk has faith that God would not allow evil to have complete control and takes a position of observation like standing in a watchtower. It is here where the greatest text of Habakkuk is found.
Habakkuk 2:4__________________________________________________________________
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Paul builds the Christian faith in Romans on this great text. Forgiveness and new life in Jesus Christ comes through the exercise of faith in the gospel but also the doctrine of perseverance and steadfastness. We go on living in faith after we are saved.
The Prophet's Proclamations - Chapters 2 - 3
In Chapter 2, starting in verse six, Habakkuk pictures the downfall of Babylon. Here are five proverbial woes:
1) The plundered shall in turn be plundered.
2) A house built by evil gain shall witness against its owner.
3) The capital built by blood hall be as fuel to the fire.
4) The producer of drunkenness and shame shall in turn be put to shame.
5) The gross idolatry of Babylon disappoints the idol maker.
Chapter 3 is in the form of a poem, picturing the appearance of God as he is executing his vengeance in the world and saving his people.
QUESTIONS:
1) What is the great concern of Habakkuk?
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2) How did God answer?
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