RUSSELL SANDERS
6-1-2023
THE MINOR PROPHETS OVERVIEW

There are thirteen books in the bible that are called the Minor Prophets. They are called this only because they are shorter in length than the books from the three Major Prophets, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. Each of these thirteen shorter books are all important in their own particular way. We shall do a brief overview of each one. Dates used for their writing and time period will be derived from Bishop James Ussher, the same dates often used at the top margins of many King James version bibles.

Ussher was an Archbishop of the Church of Ireland between 1625 to 1656 A.D. He was a scholar and prolific writer who became best known for his chronology that sought to establish biblical dates from the creation (Genesis) and onward. There may be some dates that could be questionable based on modern scholarship, especially regarding the year of Jesus’ birth and crucifixion. However, for the most part, his dates are reasonably reliable. They are especially relevant in understanding Israel’s history.

Some of these Minor Prophet books do speak of future prophetic events. However, many of the books focus upon the sin and depravity of Israel or of mankind. Their content usually calls for repentance. In other words, the prophet becomes a preacher.

We will look at the overall theme of each book. It is not the purpose to deeply analyze them or study them, but rather to give you a general “feel” for the book. This is important because most people and most preachers tend to ignore these books. However, the entire word of God is important, not just the favorite parts.

These books have anywhere from one or two chapters up to fourteen chapters. Stay with us as we look very briefly at each one of the thirteen Minor Prophets.