Only Christ Will Not Fail You [2026.05.03 Evening Sermon in Nahum 3:14–19]

If we are hoping in anything else at all, but Christ, it will fail us.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The sermon draws a sobering portrait of divine judgment on Nineveh through Nahum’s prophecy, exposing the futility of placing security in human strength, resources, numbers, or leadership. It emphasizes that no amount of preparation, military might, economic prosperity, or political power can withstand God’s righteous wrath when He declares, 'I am against you.' The imagery of locusts and swarming insects underscores the fleeting nature of human achievements and the inevitable collapse of all earthly confidence. The passage warns that even the most powerful leaders and institutions—whether military, economic, or political—will vanish like grasshoppers in the sun, leaving only the reality of God’s justice. Ultimately, the only lasting security is found not in any earthly fortress but in Christ alone, Whose atonement shields the believer from God’s condemnation. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and faith, reminding the hearers that apart from Christ, no power can endure God’s judgment, and that true hope lies solely in His mercy.

All Other Hopes Will Fail You [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 3:14–19]

What is our lasting takeaway from Nineveh? Nahum 3:14–19 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those who hope in other things, or presume upon grace, will perish without hope. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional draws a powerful contrast between human reliance on numbers, wealth, military might, and political power—symbolized by the locusts and grasshoppers of Nahum 3—and the ultimate futility of such trust apart from God. Though Assyria prepares desperately with fortified strongholds and multiplied resources, God declares their efforts will be consumed by fire, and their leaders will vanish like locusts fleeing at dawn, emphasizing that all earthly institutions and systems, when exalted above God, will fail. The passage underscores the justice of God’s judgment, especially after a prior opportunity for repentance, as seen in Nineveh’s brief revival under Jonah. The rhetorical climax—'For upon whom has not your wickedness passed continually?'—reveals that God’s mercy, while profound, is not a license for presumption, and that the season of repentance is not endless. The warning is clear: all human strength and self-reliance will ultimately collapse, and only those who turn from sin and place their hope in Christ will endure. Thus, the book of Nahum stands as a solemn reminder that true security lies only in God Himself.

2026.05.01 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 3:14–19

Read Nahum 3:14–19

Questions from the Scripture text: What four preparations will Nineveh make (Nahum 3:14)? What will happen anyway (Nahum 3:15a–c)? What will they try to do (verse 15d–e)? Like what? What have they previously multiplied (Nahum 3:16a)? But what will their invaders be like now (verse 16b)? Who else are like locusts (Nahum 3:17a–c)? But, like locusts, what will happen to them (verse 17d–e)? And what will happen to their leadership (Nahum 3:18a–b)? And to their people (verse 18c–d)? How bad is their situation (Nahum 3:19a–b)? How will who respond to this (verse 19c–d)? Why (verse 19e)? 

What is our lasting takeaway from Nineveh? Nahum 3:14–19 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that those who hope in other things, or presume upon grace, will perish without hope.  

Your Resources and Preparations Will Fail You. The Lord gives Nineveh fair warning, so that they can stockpile water (Nahum 3:14a) and reinforce their defense works (verse 14b), manufacturing new bricks for the effort (verse 14c–d). But His purpose in giving them this time is to humiliate all of their best efforts (Nahum 3:15a–c). We must learn that there are no resources or preparation against the wrath of God. And we must learn not to trust in our resources or our preparations but in the Lord Himself.

Your Numbers Will Fail You. Another thing the Assyrians were hoping in was their sheer numbers. If we are going to be honest with ourselves, this is especially true of churches today. But God is not impressed with numbers. He taunts them about their swarms—whether themselves (Nahum 3:15d–e), their merchants (Nahum 3:16a), or their military (Nahum 3:17a–c). He uses terms for various types of locusts (reminiscent of Joel 1:4), but like all of these locusts, the Assyrians’ multitudes will fly away and vanish completely (Nahum 3:16b, Nahum 3:17d–e). Just as with resources and preparation, what are numbers against the Lord? And what are numbers without the Lord?

Your Merchants, Military, and Magistrates Will Fail You. Generally, nations hope that they will be exalted by their economy, as with the merchants of Nahum 3:16; or, by their military, as with the commanders and generals of Nahum 3:17; or, by their magistrates, as with the shepherds and nobles of Nahum 3:18a–b. But as soon as you become unprofitable, the merchants vanish (Nahum 3:16). And, the great militaries of history have all eventually vanished (Nahum 3:17). And, apart from transforming grace, the nobility are all in it for themselves (Nahum 3:18). Even in their strength, these are nothing against God, and nothing without Him. But even their strength is but for a moment. Those things which are good servants under the Lord become vain calamities, when hoped in against Him, instead of Him, or without Him.

If You Hope in Anything Else, Your Fall Will Be Final and Full. “Your injury has no healing. Your wound is severe” (Nahum 3:19a–b). And this is as it ought to be because their destruction is just and right. “All who hear news of you will clap hands over you” (verse 19c–d). Everyone will congratulate and agree with one another, because they've seen her wickedness, and they've suffered her wickedness (verse 19).

The Lord had shown great kindness to Nineveh. A generation ago, the Lord had sent Jonah, and they repented, and the Lord relented. But, their repentance was short-lived. This is, perhaps, the most dangerous things that a man can hope in: that he will always be able to repent again later. But the rhetorical question with which this book ends (Jonah is the only other book that ends in a question!) points out that they had made an ongoing habit of wickedness.

If we are going to presume that we can always repent later, that we can indulge ourselves, then when we feel like we're in danger of the judgment, we'll just repent then—there comes a day when the opportunity for repentance has passed. Do not risk playing with your eternal soul that way! And do not think that any of our households or cities or nations are some kind of special exception. A nation that does wickedness continually must not presume that it can somehow escape the judgment of God breaking into history against it.

Whether for a nation/household/congregation in time, or for a man for all eternity, everything else will fail us. If we hope in anything else, our fall will be final and full. We must not delay in turning from our sin and hoping in Christ and submitting to Him. And while we make good use of God's gifts (resources, preparations, wealth, arms, authority, etc.), we must never trust in these gifts. We must employ them as those whose trust is ultimately in God alone.

Why do you do the “responsible” earthly things that you do? Why do you do the “responsible” spiritual things that you do? What are you most tempted to find security in, apart from the Lord? What might be a sin, for you, that you have a nagging awareness that you need to turn from it, but you just keep doing it, as if it’s not that dangerous?

Sample prayer:  Father, thank You for this portion of Your Word. Thank You for how it directs us away from ourselves, and to You, in Christ. Grant that we would take it to heart by the mercy of Your Spirit, and that we would not presume upon Your grace, but live repentantly and obediently, in submission to You, and in care for others, which we ask through Christ. Amen!

Suggested songs: ARP2 “Why Do Gentile Nations Rage” or TPH177 “Before Thee, God, Who Knowest All”

Too Weak and Too Wicked [2026.04.26 Evening Sermon in Nahum 3:8–13]

We cannot count on eluding or withstanding God's judgment, but must instead turn from our sin and trust in His grace.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

Too Weak and Too Wicked to Escape [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 3:8–13]

Why does God call Nineveh’s attention to Thebes? Nahum 3:8–13 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are too weak to endure God’s vengeance, and we are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Nahum 3:8–13 confronts the illusion of security in human strength, alliances, and geographical advantage by contrasting Nineveh’s presumed power with the fall of Thebes, a city once considered invincible. Though Thebes was fortified by rivers, alliances, and a long history of greatness, it was ultimately destroyed by Assyria, demonstrating that no nation, no matter how powerful or protected, can escape God’s judgment when it opposes His holiness. The passage warns Nineveh—and by extension, Judah—that their wickedness, especially their violence against image-bearers of God and their idolatry, makes them too guilty to escape divine wrath, and too weak to endure it. The vivid imagery of drunkards, trembling fig trees, collapsing gates, and people hiding in fear foreshadows the final judgment described in Revelation, where all humanity will face the wrath of God. The devotional calls the hearer to recognize that no one can stand before God’s indignation apart from Christ, Who alone provides righteousness and atonement. Thus, the urgent call is to repent of sin and cling to Jesus, the only refuge from the coming day of wrath.

2026.04.24 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 3:8–13

Read Nahum 3:8–13

Questions from the Scripture text: What does Nahum 3:8 ask Nineveh, in comparison to whom? What was No Amon’s geographical situation? Who were her strength (Nahum 3:9a)? How great was this strength (verse 9b)? Who were her helpers (verse 9c)? But what happened to her (Nahum 3:10a–b)? And to her children (verse 10c–d)? And what, to whom else (verse 10e–f)? What three things will Nineveh have in common with No Amon (Nahum 3:11)? What are they trusting in (Nahum 3:12a)? But what will their “strength” be like (verse 12)? What will their warriors be like (Nahum 3:3a)? What will their defenses be like (verse 13b–c)? 

Why does God call Nineveh’s attention to Thebes? Nahum 3:8–13 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we are too weak to endure God’s vengeance, and we are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance.  

What was Nineveh trusting in? They were hoping that they would be protected by the Tigris, on their west; and, their elimination of so many of their competitors; and, those they had cowered into alliance with them; and, their own formidable forces.

But they, of all people, should have known better.

Assyria themselves had humiliated No Amon (Nahum 3:8a, Thebes’s religious name) in the deep south of Egypt. Thebes had risen to glory 1400 earlier. The Nile was much more of a protection to them (verse 8b–f) than the Tigris was to Nineveh. And Thebes had alliances that were over 2000 years old (Nahum 3:9, cf. Genesis 10:6): Cush (modern Ethiopia and Sudan), Egypt (probably referring to lower/northern Egypt), Put (roughly modern Chad), and Lubim (roughly modern Libya).

The conquering of mighty and ancient Thebes was a massive victory for the Assyrians. By comparison, Nineveh’s protections were weak and pathetic. How fool-hardy was their confidence! It was Assyria who had brutalized the children (Nahum 3:10c–d), trafficked the elderly (verse 10e), and bound all the great men (verse 10f) of Thebes. But what Assyria didn’t count on was that the Lord would avenge Thebes. Assyria may have boasted in neutralizing Amon, but Amon was no true God. 

YHWH is the avenger of all. “Also she!” led Nahum 3:10 in the original. “Also you!” leads both halves of Nahum 3:11 in the original. Nineveh, also, will stagger like a drunk (verse 11a), panic like a fugitive (verse 11c), tremble and fall apart like a fig tree (Nahum 3:12), faint like a woman (Nahum 3:13a), capitulate as a gate-breached city (verse 13b), burn as a conquered city (verse 13c).

Nineveh are too weak to survive God’s vengeance. And Nineveh are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance.

But if Judah approvingly nod their heads at this, without responding in repentance, they will be subject to their own, dreadful “Also you!” Just as Nineveh was weaker than Thebes, Judah are far weaker. And whereas Assyria has perpetrated their wickedness upon image-bearers of God (and especially, therefore, against God Himself), Judah also has done their wickedness against God Himself. 

Indeed, the images in this passage describe what comes upon all mankind, from greatest to smallest, in the last day. “And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind. Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place. And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” (Revelation 6:13–17). Here, again, is that question from Nahum 1:6. 

We are too weak to survive God’s vengeance. And we are too wicked to avoid God’s vengeance. What shall we do? What protection can we have? Where can we go? Upon whom can we depend? The only answer to these questions is, “Jesus Christ alone!” Of course, we cannot cling to our sin and cling to Christ at the same time. Renouncing our sin is not our safety; only Christ is. But, we must renounce it and hide in Him! And, if we don’t, then let us not be surprised if, even in this world and life, visitation of that judgment comes upon us as a warning, as it did to Thebes, and Nineveh, and Judah.

How seriously have you taken the question of what will happen with you in the day of judgment? What are you hoping in, to protect you on that day? Will it hold up? What if that day was today?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we are too wicked to avoid Your judgment and too weak to survive Your judgment. But the Lord Jesus Christ is righteous, and He has already endured the fullness of Your wrath for the sins of all who believe in Him. Hide us in Him, that we may be able to stand in the great day. And give each of us, our households, our church, and our nation to turn from our sin—lest Your judgment break into this world against us. Bear with us in patience, turn us from our sin in mercy and power, and forgive us through Christ, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP32AB “Why Do Gentile Nations Rage” or TPH433 “Amazing Grace” 

Delivered by Wrath [2026.04.19 Morning Sermon in Nahum 3:1–7]

The Lord will so completely answer the deceit and destruction of the wicked that there will be no wicked left at the last.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

How the World Ends Up [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 3:1–7]

How can God’s people withstand the attacks and temptations of the great ones of the world? Nahum 3:1–7 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God destroys the world’s power and humiliates the world’s promises of pleasure and pride. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The passage assesses that the world is characterized by deceit and violence—symbolized by Nineveh’s harlotries and bloody conquests—posing two dangers to God’s people: fear of persecution and envy of worldly power and pleasure. In response, God will not only destroy the violent through judgment that mirrors their own brutality but also humiliate the seductive lies of the world by exposing their shame and worthlessness. At the end, the world will be transformed into a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells, and no one will mourn the fallen powers, for the bride of Christ—the faithful—will remain, purified and eternal. The call is to reject both fear and worldly allure, trusting in God’s certain justice and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom.

2026.04.18 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 3:1–7

Read Nahum 3:1–7

Questions from the Scripture text: How does Nahum 3:1a begin? Upon whom is this woe pronounced? With what two things is she full (verse 1b)? What does she always have (verse 1c)? What four things are heard in Nahum 3:2? What four things are seen in Nahum 3:3? How is the fourth one emphasized? Why has all of this happened—what has the “good harlot” done (Nahum 3:4a)? What does verse 4b call her? What does she do to what two entities (verse 4b–c)? What is Nineveh’s biggest problem (Nahum 3:5a)? How does the description of her humiliation (verse 5b–d) match up with the description of her wickedness? What will be the effect of her judgment (Nahum 3:6)? So that who (Nahum 3:7a) does what (verse 7b) and says what (verse 7c)? What will they not find someone to do (verse 7d–e)?

How can God’s people withstand the attacks and temptations of the great ones of the world? Nahum 3:1–7 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these seven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God destroys the world’s power and humiliates the world’s promises of pleasure and pride.  

Woe (Nahum 3:1a)! While the powerful of the world congratulate themselves, Scripture takes a dimmer view of their condition (cf. James 5:1). If we are to think of them rightly, we need to take Scripture’s view, lest we end up their victims. 

Full of lies and robbery (Nahum 3:1b). Nineveh was a classic example of both dangers that the “great ones” of the world pose: deception and destruction. We see an example of the deception in 2 Kings 8:31–32, where they promised the Judeans each his own vine, fig tree, and cistern in a new land of grain, wine, bread, vineyards, olive groves, and honey. And with regard to destruction, the history of Assyrian brutality is extreme.

Living godly in the world means suffering persecution (cf. 2 Timothy 3:12). While the wicked remain, being righteous will mean the continual risk (and, often, reality) of being harmed by them. 

But the wicked threaten something far worse: that we would get sucked in by their lies, and allured by their harlotry, to join in their idolatries. It is one thing to be sold to wicked men through Assyrian brutality, but a far worse thing to be sold to idols/demons through Assyrian religion.

Envying the “great ones” of the world endangers you of living for what they live for, depending upon what they depend upon, and delighting in what they delight in. Nations and families (and eternal souls!) are destroyed by being sucked into the idolatries of the world (Nahum 3:4).

So YHWH of hosts is against them (Nahum 3:2-6). His two-pronged response is appropriate to the two-pronged danger that they pose to the world. 

Corresponding to their brutality, their downfall will be brutal (Nahum 3:2-3). The verses bring us into the experience by sounds (Nahum 3:2), sights (Nahum 3:3a–b), and even the sensation of verse 3c–e. We can hear (and even feel) the whirring of the whip (Nahum 3:2a), and the rattling of the wheels (verse 2b); the pounding of the hooves (verse 2c), and the jolting sounds of chariots as they skip and leap (verse 2d). We can see swords that appear like flames as they wave about with blood, and spears that fly like bolts of lightning (Nahum 3:3a). We can see the ground covered with the bodies (verse 3c–d) and feel the unsteadiness of trying to walk but finding nowhere to place our feet (verse 3e). The brutes will be brutalized.

Corresponding to their deceptions, and the allurement of their idolatries, they will be humiliated (Nahum 3:5-6). The Assyrians supposed themselves to be exalting their own gods over-against all other gods (2 Kings 18:34–35), but YHWH has declared that He is cutting off the idols out of their temples (cf. Nahum 1:14). Now, He repeats that their great problem is not that the Chaldeans and Medes have arisen against them, but that YHWH of hosts Himself is against them (Nahum 3:5a, cf. Nahum 2:13). 

When idolaters are confronted by the one true God, how great is their humiliation! Their existence becomes an excruciating embarrassment of the pathetic uselessness of their “purpose,” helplessness of their “power,” and worthlessness of their “property” and “pleasure.” Whereas she had tempted the nations with promise to be exposed unto their pleasure (Nahum 3:4), when she is exposed by the light of God’s justice and wrath, it is actually to their horror (Nahum 3:5) and disgust (Nahum 3:6). 

Until only those remain who love and praise the justice of the Lord (Nahum 3:7). At the last, all worldly deceptions will be defeated, and those who remain will praise God for His justice, rather than mourn for the wicked. Nineveh (and, ultimately, all like her) will go from endless victims (Nahum 3:1c) to zero sympathizers (Nahum 3:7d–e).

Dear Christian reader, God is such a Savior that He will not suffer you to continue being either crushed or captivated. Those who seek to crush you will be destroyed; do not fear them. Those who seek to allure you will be humiliated; do not envy or imitate them.

The Lord has made Nineveh a spectacle. He has done this with the world’s “great ones,” many times throughout history. In Nahum 3:7 we see His purpose in all of this. Behold the Lord’s justice—unto your comfort and faithfulness, all unto His praise!

How are you tempted to be afraid of what the world might do to you? How are you tempted to live for what the world lives for? How does God’s sure, and total, justice help you to resist such temptations? In what current circumstances do you most need to remember this?

Sample prayer:  Lord, in a world full of lies and robbery, give us to remember the gospel of Your Son. Make us submit to Him, Who dashes all His enemies to pieces. Make us to trust in Him, with Whom alone all true blessing is found. And keep us from giving in either to fear or to the idolatry of envy, for we ask it through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP2 “Why Do Gentile Nations Rage” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel”

The Good News of God's Wrath [2026.04.12 Morning Sermon in Nahum 2:3–13]

God's wrath is right, and just, and holy—and good news for those who have been saved through faith in Christ.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon)

When God Is Against You [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 2:3–13]

What endures? Nahum 2:3–13 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that your relationship with God is the one thing that endures. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The passage from Nahum 2 presents a vivid depiction of God’s sovereign judgment on Nineveh, anticipating the ultimate failure of all earthly power, wealth, and security. Every creature will crumble when God declares, "I am against you." All human achievements, including family, military strength, and material riches, are fleeting and cannot endure apart from reconciliation with God. The only lasting security lies in being reconciled to God through faith in Christ, so that the final declaration between soul and Creator is not "I am against you," but "I am for you."

2026.04.11 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 2:3–13

Read Nahum 2:3–13

Questions from the Scripture text: What, belonging to whom, are made what color (Nahum 2:3a)? Who are dressed in what color (verse 3b)? With what are the chariots “dressed” (verse 3c)? In what day (verse 3d)? What are shaken (verse 3e)? What do the chariots do, where (Nahum 2:4a)? What do they do to each other (verse 4b)? What do they seem like (verse 4c)? How do they run (verse 4d)? Whom does he remember (Nahum 2:5a)? What interrupts their walking (verse 5b)? Where are they going, at what speed (verse 5c)? What is being prepared (verse 5d)? What are opened (Nahum 2:6a)? What is dissolved/melted (verse 6b)? How does Nahum 2:7a indicate that this has been established? What will happen to Nineveh (verse 7b)? Who will lead her (verse 7c–d)? With what mournful sounds (verse 7e)? And actions (verse 7f)? How does Nahum 2:8a describe her former peace and security? But what do her citizens do now (verse 8b)? What are others shouting after them (verse 8c)? But how is the haste of their fleeing demonstrated (verse 8d)? What do her invaders do (Nahum 2:9)? How much? What (and who) is left (Nahum 2:10a)? What does this cause in her citizens (verse 10b)? What do they feel (verse 10c)? From where? How does verse 10d describe the extent to which they are horrified and devastated? What rhetorical question does Nahum 2:11a ask? And verse 11b? And Nahum 2:11-12d? What does this imply about how Nineveh used to be? What do the rhetorical questions this imply about what has happened to Nineveh? How does Nahum 2:13 introduce itself? Who is speaking in it? What is His relation to Nineveh? What is He going to do to her chariots? And to her young lions (cf. Nahum 2:11-12)? What will He do to their ability to prey upon others? Who will no longer report her victories? 

What endures? Nahum 2:3–13 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eleven verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that your relationship with God is the one thing that endures.  

The Lord’s restoration of His people (Nahum 2:2) goes hand-in-hand with His vengeance upon those who have oppressed them (Nahum 2:3-13). What do we learn from His own description and explanation of that vengeance? We learn the nature of His vengeance, the nature of this life, and the nature of relationship with God.

The nature of His vengeance. The description in Nahum 2:3-4 uses the colors and appearance of the weapons, men, and vehicles to describe the invasion of the suburbs, outside the wall, like a wildfire (cf. Nahum 1:10), bearing down on the city. The king of Assyria remembers his mightiest men (Nahum 2:5a), but they stumble themselves into position (verse 5b–d). Then, in a moment, not only do all the defenses melt (Nahum 2:6), but also the hearts of the people (Nahum 2:7). No warrior stands (Nahum 2:8), no treasure remains (Nahum 2:9), the city and their joy are emptied (Nahum 2:10), and nothing is left of the pride of their pride (i.e., Assyria as a community of lions, Nahum 2:11-12). God’s vengeance is fiery, inevitable, just, and complete. We must remember this, when we are tempted to take our own, weak vengeance instead; or, when we are discouraged by what the wicked are doing; or, when we are tempted to think that we can sin with no repercussions.

The nature of this life. Nineveh, as the capital of Assyria, is the perfect example of the people who have everything in this life. Safety, security, wealth, impressiveness, confidence, even family. But how easily those things come to nothing in a moment. The Tigris on her west wall becomes the method by which her fortifications melt (Nahum 2:6). How quickly their rejoicing turns to the deepest mourning (Nahum 2:7, Nahum 2:10b–d). They go from calm and peaceful as a pool of water, to unable to get their warriors even to look back as they flee (Nahum 2:8). Their limitless treasure (Nahum 2:9) is entirely emptied (Nahum 2:10a). And their fierceness toward others (Nahum 2:11), and fierce loyalty toward one another (Nahum 2:12a–b), suddenly vanish. How many live for these things: safety, security, wealth, influence, pleasure, belonging. But Scripture teaches us to hold onto these things with a light grip; the form of this world is passing away (cf. 1 Corinthians 7:29–31). If we receive every good thing as a gift and assignment from the Lord, then very well. But if we treat them as the substance of our lives, then let us remember Nahum 2:3–13, and how even Nineveh lost them all in one fell swoop. Even Christian families must hold onto Christ together, if we hope that our family bond will be something that endures.

The nature of relationship with God. What is Nineveh’s great problem? That YHWH Himself is against her. He demands attention: “Behold Me! I am against you!” (Nahum 2:13a, more literally translated). He says it, not in the third person through the prophet, but His own voice (“an utterance of YHWH,” verse 13a, more literally translated). Finally, YHWH emphasizes His own action: though the sword is what will devour Nineveh’s young lions, YHWH Himself “will burn your chariots in smoke,” and YHWH Himself “will cut off your prey from the earth.” Give the Lord Himself all your attention, dear reader. Either He is for you, in which case all the creation avails nothing against you (cf. Romans 8:31). Or, He is against you (Nahum 2:13a), in which case all the creation avails nothing for you. The world is full of messengers and messages about earthly victory, security, prosperity, pleasure, and community. At last, all of these messengers fall silent (end of verse 13). Only one messenger’s words last. The one who preaches the gospel (cf. Nahum 1:15) as an ambassador who offers for God to be “for you” through the sacrifice of Christ (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:20–21). This is the great consideration of your existence: YHWH is either against you in yourself, or for you in Christ. Be His in Christ! 

In light of what is going on in the world, and your life, how is God’s vengeance comforting you? How is it warning you? What parts of earthly life most threaten to consume your thoughts, feelings, desires, plans, and efforts? How are you making use of His means to have the Lord Himself being the primary substance of all of these things in your life? How do you know whether God is for you or against you? What does this mean for your life right now?

Sample prayer:  Lord, in You we live and move and have our being. Forgive us for how we have lived forgetfully of You, as if the things of this world had any significance apart from You. Grant that, by Your Spirit, we might live by faith in Christ, knowing that You are for us, in Him. Through Him we ask it, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP46 “God Is Our Refuge and Our Strength” or TPH515 “More Than Conquerors” 

The Chief End of Affliction [2026.04.05 Morning Sermon in Nahum 1:12–2:2]

The Lord delivers the godly out of trials and reserves the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment.

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The End of Affliction [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 1:12–2:2]

What determines the course of history? Nahum 1:12–2:2 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the course of history is determined by God’s decree to save unto His glory. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional unfolds a divine dual message through Nahum’s prophecy: to Judah, a promise of deliverance and restoration (affirming that God’s decree ends both foreign oppression and personal affliction), while to Nineveh, a pronouncement of complete and irreversible judgment, erasing its name and idols as a testament to the supremacy of YHWH. The ultimate aim of God’s redemptive plan is the glory of His Israel. The passage culminates in a vision of God’s eternal purpose: to gather a people who, having been emptied, are filled with His glory and live in faithful obedience and worship. This is the end of enemies and the end of affliction.

2026.04.04 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 1:12–2:2

Read Nahum 1:12–2:2

Questions from the Scripture text: Who is speaking in Nahum 1:12a? What is the condition of Nineveh (verse 12b)? What will happen to them (verse 12c)? When (verse 12d)? What has YHWH done to Judah (verse 12e)? What will He do (verse 12f)? What will YHWH do (Nahum 1:13)? When? What has YHWH done, concerning Nineveh (Nahum 1:14a)? What is this command (verse 14b)? Where will He judge them (verse 14c)? By doing what to whom (verse 14d)? What will He do to them (verse 14e)? Why (verse 14f)? What command does Nahum 1:15a give? What are they to behold (verse 15b)? Whose feet? What does He proclaim in these good tidings (verse 15c)? Whom does verse 15d address? What two things does He say to do (verse 15d–e)? What will no longer hinder this (verse 15f)? Why not (verse 15g)? But what is the current circumstance (Nahum 2:1a)? What four things do verse 1b–e say to do? What truth will strengthen them thus—what will YHWH do (Nahum 2:2a–b)?  Why do they need to be restored (verse 2c–d)? 

What determines the course of history? Nahum 1:12–2:2 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the course of history is determined by God’s decree to save unto His glory.  

2 Peter 2:9 says that “the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment.” Nahum has said as much, already, in Nahum 1:3 and Nahum 1:7-8. Now, the pace and switching of the passage before us brings out how the Lord does both of these things at once. Nahum 1:12-13 address Judah, Nahum 1:14 addresses Nineveh, Nahum 1:15 address Judah, Nahum 2:1 addresses Nineveh, and Nahum 2:2 talks about Judah. The Lord simultaneously warns Nineveh and comforts Judah.

There is an end to enemies, and an end to chastening (Nahum 1:12-13). The Lord doesn’t need Assyria to decline; He is great in power (cf. Nahum 1:2). Everything occurs by His decree (Nahum 1:12a, Nahum 1:14a), so Assyria being in its complete and numerous condition (Nahum 1:12b) is no challenge. The enemy will shave them clean/mow them down (Nahum 1:12c), when he passes through (verse 12d). The verb for “cut down” implies completely cleaning him out. Enemies will only remain so long as they serve a purpose. That purpose was discipline/chastening. The Lord was afflicting them (verse 12e), but there was a set amount of that affliction determined, and when it was completed, it would be completely ended (verse 12f). The complete destruction of Assyria is for the purpose of liberating Judah from his oppression (Nahum 1:13). Whatever enmity God’s people might face, and whatever affliction God’s people might be under, it is for their ultimate good.

God’s sovereign providence does not excuse or diminish sin (Nahum 1:14, Nahum 2:1). Again, YHWH emphasizes the certainty and determination that comes from His decree (Nahum 1:14a). Nineveh’s name will be extinguished (verse 14b). YHWH will bury it (verse 14e). This actually occurred in history; within a hundred years of its destruction, Nineveh was heard from no more. It was literally buried until archaeologists began to dig it up in the nineteenth century. Though Assyria was horrifically brutal, it is not their brutality that the Lord targets here. It is their idolatry. He will cut the idols out of Nineveh’s idol temples. This would have been quite the operation, since the Assyrians raided the idol temples of those whom they defeated, and filled their own temples with the paraphernalia. Assyria thought they (and their gods) were so great, but God opposes the proud and brings them low. His final word in Nahum 1:14 is humiliating: worthless. Assyria is light.

Though YHWH had used them to afflict His people (Nahum 1:12), Assyria is not excused by that. They don’t get any sort of pass. The Lord is going to humiliate them with their lack of significance by burying them. When the Lord sends them the scatterer (Nahum 2:1a), all of the efforts of Nineveh at its full strength (Nahum 2:1b–e) will be useless.

A cause for worship (Nahum 1:15). What Isaiah had already prophesied about God’s returning Judah from Babylon (Nahum 1:15, cf. Isaiah 52:7), Nahum also says now about deliverance from the oppression of Assyria (which, historically, will come first). It is cause for worship that we are saved. But it is all the more cause for worship that the Lord sends messengers to us with the announcement of that salvation! What He had done previously through Isaiah, and through Nahum, the Lord would ultimately do by His Son (cf. Hebrews 1:1–2), Who Himself addresses His elect through preachers whom He sends (cf. Romans 10:13–17). 

When Judah hears this proclamation of peace (Nahum 1:15c), they are to be ready to respond with public worship: the keeping of the feasts that the Lord has prescribed for their worship (verse 15d), and the making (and keeping) of vows to Him in that worship (verse 15e), to do all that He has commanded them.

Even though Judah have continued to act like a heel-grabber (Jacob, Nahum 2:2a), the Lord has given them a new identity that depends upon His almighty power: “God wrestles” (“Israel,” verse 2b). YHWH’s decree, YHWH’s Word, YHWH’s election will be satisfied: He will bring them into the excellence of Israel. Since Judah have been  ravaged (as exemplified most by their destroyed vines), YHWH will display His glory by restoring them. And they (and we!) will worship Him. Forever.

What enemies do you have? How long will they last? What afflictions do you have? How long will they last? How has God used you for good? What sin have you committed along the way? What must be done to/about it? How has the Lord delivered you? How has the Lord restored you? How have you responded with God’s appointed worship? 

Sample prayer:  Lord, we praise You, Who work all things according to the counsel of Your will. Thank You for the faithfulness in which You have afflicted us—even by the hands of enemies. Forgive us, for how we have continued to be like Jacob, and restore us to the excellence of Israel. Send to us those who proclaim Your peace, and make us to respond with Your appointed worship, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP119I “According to Your Word, O LORD” or TPH231 “Whate’er My God Ordains Is Right”

The Flood and Fire of His Wrath [2026.03.29 Morning Sermon in Nahum 1:8–11]

The Lord will remove all place and power from the wicked, pursuing them with darkness, and consuming them with fire.

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YHWH Our Stronghold [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 1:7–11]

How is God’s glory revealed in wrath? Nahum 1:7–11 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God’s glory is revealed in the justice of His wrath, but especially in the mercy that He shows to those whom He has chosen in love. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The passage presents a powerful contrast between God’s role as a stronghold for those who trust in Him and His role as a consuming fire of judgment against His enemies, particularly the Assyrian empire and its leader Sennacherib. Central to the message is the truth that God’s goodness—eternal and self-sufficient—is the foundation of His mercy and the reason for creation. The text emphasizes that to conspire against God’s people is to conspire against God Himself, and that all who live for anything other than His glory will face utter destruction. The devotional calls both believers and unbelievers to recognize their true position before God: either as those sheltered by His grace or as those consumed by His justice.

2026.03.28 Hopewell @Home ▫ Nahum 1:7–11

Read Nahum 1:7–11

Questions from the Scripture text: How does Nahum 1:7a summarize YHWH’s character (verse 7a)? How is this goodness expressed and experienced by believers, at what time in their lives (verse 7b)? What is His relation to those who take refuge in this stronghold (verse 7c)? What pursues those who are His enemies, instead of His friends (Nahum 1:8c)? What does He do to them (verse 8b)? In what manner (verse 8a)? What are they doing, as implied by the rhetorical question in Nahum 1:9a? What, specifically, are they conspiring/devising (verse 9c)? Why won’t this affliction arise a second time (verse 9b)? What will ultimately happen to these oppressors (Nahum 1:10c)? In what manner (verse 10a–b)? Who is taking this lead in the plot against YHWH (Nahum 1:11a–b)? What does this plotter of evil counsel (verse 11c)? 

How is God’s glory revealed in wrath? Nahum 1:7–11 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God’s glory is revealed in the justice of His wrath, but especially in the mercy that He shows to those whom He has chosen in love.  

YHWH the Stronghold, Nahum 1:7. In Nahum 1:7, Nahum returns to the goodness of YHWH, briefly mentioned in Nahum 1:3a. There, he had explained the reason for the delay in YHWH’s wrath—not because of inability or unwillingness, but because of patience. But God’s patience means salvation for some (cf. Romans 2:6–7, Romans 2:10), and greater wrath for others(cf. Romans 2:4–5, Romans 2:8–9). 

YHWH’s wrath is delayed (cf. Romans 9:22), because He especially delights to glorify His goodness (cf. Romans 9:23–24). Everyone in this world experiences goodness from God continuously in this life. But it is in our afflictions that we really see the difference. When the believer goes through trouble (Nahum 1:7b), YHWH is a stronghold to him. But, when His enemies experience trouble, that is just the beginnings of absolutely complete wrath (Nahum 1:8).

YHWH knows those who trust in Him. They come to trust in Him, because He has known them—chosen them in love. This is what is meant by the language of “knowing” (Nahum 1:7c). Genesis 15:19 uses “known” in the same way. He choses them. He loves them. He is not just a secure place for them (Nahum 1:7b). He, personally, knows them always; and, when they are in trouble, His knowing them makes Him their stronghold.

YHWH the Flood, Nahum 1:8. The security of those who trust in YHWH (Nahum 1:7) is equaled by the destruction that will come to His enemies (Nahum 1:8). Ever since Genesis 6, the overflowing flood had been the ultimate expression of God’s wrath. Now, verse 8a describes what’s coming as an overflowing flood. Jesus describes God’s wrath as “outer darkness” (cf. Matthew 8:12, Matthew 22:13, Matthew 25:30). Here, Nahum 1:8c describes what is coming as darkness pursuing His enemies. Not only they, but their place, will come to an utter end. 

If you live in God’s world for anything other than His glory, you act as His enemy (cf. Romans 1:18–25). You might live for yourself. You might live for your pleasures. You might live for your possessions. You might live for your praise, and your prominence in this world. But if you are not righteous with God through faith in Jesus Christ, then all that you lived for will come to an utter end.

YHWH, Nineveh’s Consuming Fire, Nahum 1:9-11.  In Nahum 1:9, we go from the general to the very specific. We expected this, since the book was titled as the weight that is against Nineveh. Just as every believer must know not only that God is a general Savior, but his own, personal Savior, so also the analog is true for the unbeliever. He must know not only that God is a God of complete vengeance and wrath against His enemies generally, but that God is his own, personal enemy, specifically. God will take vengeance upon Him.

The plural “you” in Nahum 1:9a matches up with a singular, feminine “you,” in Nahum 1:11a, indicating the city of Nineveh. That plural “you,” then, indicates her citizens. They were happy enough to benefit from the ruthless oppression of Sennacherib. The affliction that came out of Nineveh upon the people of God (Nahum 1:9c) would never again arise, once God had judged them (verse 9b). 

Whoever attacks the Lord’s people attacks the Lord (cf. Matthew 25:41–46; Acts 9:4). But Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, whose capital was Nineveh, was especially bold about this. He directly insulted and blasphemed YHWH (cf. 2 Kings 18:30, 2 Kings 18:35; 2 Kings 19:22–23). YHWH will give themselves over to being physically (Nahum 1:10a) and mentally (verse 10b) inept, so that they will be quickly and completely destroyed (like a fire in dry stubble, verse 10c). 

YHWH is a consuming fire (cf. Deuteronomy 9:3–4). Let the wicked nation, city, king, people, or individual know that He is their own, personal consuming fire.

What trouble are you going through? How is YHWH a stronghold for you in it? What sin, in you, is at enmity with YHWH? How are you demonstrating that you are at enmity with it? Who are the enemies of the true church in the world? What is their sure end?

Sample prayer:  Lord, You are good, our stronghold in the day of trouble. Thank You for choosing us and loving us and giving to us to know You as our stronghold. Forgive us for when we have not been at enmity with our sin. Make us to hate it with complete hatred. We thank You for the certainty that You will destroy all of Your and our enemies. We praise You for Your justice and wrath, and especially for the riches of Your glory in Your mercy in Christ, through Whom we pray, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP7B “God, Is My Shield” or TPH2B “Why Do Heathen Nations Rage”

A Stronghold in Trouble [2026.03.22 Morning Sermon in Nahum 1:7]

The LORD displays His glory in the justice of His wrath, but especially in the mercy that He shows to those whom He has chosen in love.

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YHWH Our Stronghold [Family Worship lesson in Nahum 1:7–11]

How is God’s glory revealed in wrath? Nahum 1:7–11 prepares us for the morning sermon in the holy assembly on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that God’s glory is revealed in the justice of His wrath, but especially in the mercy that He shows to those whom He has chosen in love. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The passage presents a powerful contrast between God’s role as a stronghold for those who trust in Him and His role as a consuming fire of judgment against His enemies, particularly the Assyrian empire and its leader Sennacherib. Central to the message is the truth that God’s goodness—eternal and self-sufficient—is the foundation of His mercy and the reason for creation. The text emphasizes that to conspire against God’s people is to conspire against God Himself, and that all who live for anything other than His glory will face utter destruction. The devotional calls both believers and unbelievers to recognize their true position before God: either as those sheltered by His grace or as those consumed by His justice.