II Kings 22 & 23.       Habakkuk lived and prophesied in the land of Judah. However, his recorded prophecy is unique among the Minor Prophets because of the conversations with his pleadings with God on behalf of the People, instead of appealing to the people on God’s behalf. He is contemporary with prophets Jeremiah (22:13-19), Nahum and Zephaniah at the time when the fall of Judah to Babylon is imminent. In fact, Babylon is the world power, but has not yet invaded Judah (3:6). Habakkuk was to witness the Babylonian seizure and captivity of Judah.

Chapter 1: The Prophet Wonders

1. How does Habakkuk begin his cry to God?

   Why is he so distressed?

2. Have you ever looked on this cold, cruel world and wondered, "Why doesn’t God do something?"

3. Discuss whether questioning God is wrong? (Note other examples: Job, David in the Psalms, Paul).

4. Why would God use people more wicked then Judah to punish His chosen people? (Recall the plan for Jesus to die at the hands of the Jews.)

5. How did God answer Habakkuk’s first query?

   What was Habakkuk’s second question, prompted by God’s response to his first question?

Chapter 2: The Prophet Watches and Waits

6. Write out Habakkuk 2:4.

   How could this phrase bring peace to Habakkuk in his quest to understand why God would allow his nation (God-chosen) to be destroyed by a heathen power?

7. This same phrase (and theme) are repeated throughout the New Testament. (See Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; and Hebrews 10:36-39.) How can the truth of this phrase satisfy a struggle in the midst of life’s problems of this present age?

8. What three characteristics of God are revealed in this chapter that brought assurance and strength to Habakkuk?

   Which is most impressive to you personally and why?

9. Write out 2:14.

   How is this statement carried out?

10. In God’s answer to Habakkuk’s questioning of Babylon’s being allowed to conquer the Jewish nation, what five woes did He declare upon Babylon?

11. Write out 2:20.

    Describe the impact this principle has in a topsy-turvy world to those who love God. (Use any present-day example of this truth that are an encouragement to you.)

Chapter 3: The Prophet Worships

12. In chapter 3 we are made privy to the most intimate glimpse into the prayer life of Habakkuk. His prayer shows a dramatic change in attitude from 1:5 to 3:2. What made the difference for him?

13. Early in his prayer, for what tow things does Habakkuk ask from God?

14. From verses 3-7, what phrases describe God’s awesome majesty?

15. From verses 8-15, what words show Habakkuk’s peace and hope?

16. shows that Habakkuk is now prepared to endure?

17. In your own words, what is Habakkuk’s conclusion?

18. Habakkuk’s review of Jewish history and God’s dealings led him to a heart full of praise and peace. What are some watershed highlights of your own life & how God has worked that build your own faith and assurance for present or future difficulties?

Women IN God's Service

Minor Prophets - lesson 5
Ladies Bible Class Lesson, Spring 1998
West-Ark Church of Christ, Fort Smith, Arkansas

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