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Text:MHC Concise Book of Nahum

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Created page with "{{Infobox_Contents | topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Nahum | subtopics = The Prophet Nahum | opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}} * Te..."
{{Infobox_Contents |
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Nahum |
subtopics = The Prophet [[Book of Nahum|Nahum]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Nahum, Book of|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Nahum]] |
}}

Read the [[Book of Nahum]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]

{{chapters}}

[[Nahum 1|1]]
[[Nahum 2|2]]
[[Nahum 3|3]]

==Commentary==

[[Text:MHC Concise Nahum 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Nahum 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Nahum 3|3]]

{{mhc import}}

'''Commentary on the [[Book of Nahum]]'''

This prophet denounces the certain and approaching destruction of the Assyrian empire, particularly of Nineveh, which is described very minutely. Together with this is consolation for his countrymen, encouraging them to [[trust]] in [[God]].
----

'''Chapter''' 1

''Chapter Outline''

The justice and power of the [[Lord]].

(1-8)

The overthrow of the [[Assyrians]].

(9-15)

'''Verses''' 1-8

About a hundred years before, at Jonah's preaching, the Ninevites repented, and were spared, yet, soon after, they became worse than ever. Nineveh knows not that [[God]] who contends with her, but is told what a [[God]] he is. It is good for all to mix [[faith]] with what is here said concerning Him, which speaks great terror to the wicked, and comfort to [[believer]]s. Let each take his portion from it: let sinners read it and tremble; and let saints read it and triumph. The [[anger]] of the [[Lord]] is contrasted with his goodness to his people. Perhaps they are obscure and little regarded in the world, but the [[Lord]] knows them. The Scripture character of [[Jehovah]] agrees not with the views of proud reasoners. The [[God]] and Father of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus Christ|Jesus Christ]] is slow to wrath and ready to forgive, but he will by no means acquit the wicked; and there is tribulation and anguish for every soul that doeth evil: but who duly regards the power of his wrath?

'''Verses''' 9-15

There is a great deal plotted against the [[Lord]] by the gates of hell, and against his kingdom in the world; but it will prove in vain. With some sinners [[God]] makes quick despatch; and one way or other, he will make an utter end of all his enemies. Though they are quiet, and many very secure, and not in fear, they shall be cut down as grass and corn, when the destroying angel passes through. [[God]] would hereby work great deliverance for his own people. But those who make themselves vile by scandalous sins, [[God]] will make vile by shameful punishments. The tidings of this great deliverance shall be welcomed with abundant joy. These words are applied to the great redemption wrought out by our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] and the everlasting [[gospel]], Ro 10:15. [[Christ]]'s ministers are messengers of good tidings, that preach [[peace]] by [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. How welcome to those who see their misery and danger by sin! And the promise they made in the day of trouble must be made good. Let us be thankful for [[God]]'s ordinances, and gladly attend them. Let us look forward with cheerful [[hope]] to a [[world]] where the wicked never can enter, and [[sin]] and [[temptation]] will no more be known.
----

'''Chapter''' 2

''Chapter Outline''

Nineveh's destruction foretold.

(1-10)

The true cause, their sinning against [[God]], and his appearing against them.

(11-13)

'''Verses''' 1-10

Nineveh shall not put aside this judgment; there is no counsel or strength against the [[Lord]]. [[God]] looks upon proud cities, and brings them down. Particular account is given of the terrors wherein the invading enemy shall appear against Nineveh. The empire of Assyria is represented as a queen, about to be led captive to Babylon. Guilt in the conscience fills men with terror in an evil day; and what will treasures or [[glory]] do for us in times of distress, or in the day of wrath? Yet for such things how many lose their souls!

'''Verses''' 11-13

The kings of Assyria had long been terrible and cruel to their neighbours, but the [[Lord]] would destroy their power. Many plead as an excuse for rapine and fraud, that they have families to provide for; but what is thus obtained will never do them any good. Those that fear the [[Lord]], and get honestly what they have, shall not want for themselves and theirs. It is just with [[God]] to deprive those of children, or of comfort in them, who take sinful courses to enrich them. Those are not worthy to be heard again, that have spoken reproachfully of [[God]]. Let us then come to [[God]] upon his [[mercy]]-seat, that having [[peace]] with him through our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], we may know that he is for us, and that all things shall work together for our everlasting good.
----

'''Chapter''' 3

''Chapter Outline''

The sins and judgments of Nineveh.

(1-7)

Its utter destruction.

(8-19)

'''Verses''' 1-7

When proud sinners are brought down, others should learn not to lift themselves up. The fall of this great city should be a lesson to private persons, who increase wealth by fraud and oppression. They are preparing enemies for themselves; and if the [[Lord]] sees good to punish them in this world, they will have none to pity them. Every man who seeks his own prosperity, safety, and [[peace]], should not only act in an upright, honourable manner, but with kindness to all.

'''Verses''' 8-19

Strong-holds, even the strongest, are no defence against the judgments of [[God]]. They shall be unable to do any thing for themselves. The Chaldeans and Medes would devour the land like canker-worms. The [[Assyrians]] also would be eaten up by their own numerous hired troops, which seem to be meant by the word rendered "merchants." Those that have done evil to their neighbours, will find it come home to them. Nineveh, and many other cities, states, and empires, have been ruined, and should be a warning to us. Are we better, except as there are some true [[Christians]] amongst us, who are a greater security, and a stronger defence, than all the advantages of situation or strength? When the [[Lord]] shows himself against a people, every thing they [[trust]] in must fail, or prove a disadvantage; but he continues good to [[Israel]]. He is a strong-hold for every [[believer]] in time of trouble, that cannot be stormed or taken; and he knoweth those that [[trust]] in Him.


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[[Category:MHC Concise Bible Commentary|Book of Nahum]]
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