This study surveys the structure, message, and theological themes of each of the twelve minor prophets.

The diversity of prophetic voices in the Bible provides a message that is rich and variegated. But the variety of the testimony can be lost by limiting one's interpretations or application of the prophetic word. Interpreting the Prophetic Word helps readers understand the harmony of the voices that reveal God's purposes in redemptive history. Dr. Willem VanGemeren explains clearly and fully the background of the prophetic tradition. He then interprets the message of the major and minor prophets, using historical context and literary form and structure as tools in his analysis. He concludes with an explanation of the relevance of the prophetic word today. Dr. VanGemeren's extensive research and scholarship is presented in a readable way to unlock the door of prophecy for readers. He helps them to interpret prophecy and invites them to listen to the prophets and to lives the prophetic word.

The promise and peril in reading the Minor Prophets. Reading the Book of the Twelve Minor Prophets confronts the unique challenges presented by this daunting section of the Old Testament. On Reading the Twelve Minor Prophets (David G. Firth and Brittany N. Melton) Hosea: Marriage, Violence, and Yahweh's Lament (Isabelle M. Hamley) Reading Joel within and without the Book of the Twelve (Tchavdar S. Hadjiev) The Use and Abuse of Technology: Habakkuk's Ancient Critique in a Modern World (Heath A. Thomas) Luther's Lectures on Habakkuk as an Example of Participatory Exegesis (Thomas Renz) Perspectives on Theodicy in Habakkuk and Malachi vis-à-vis Job (S. D. Snyman) The New Covenant in the Book of the Twelve (Anthony R. Petterson) Filled, Empowered, Dwelling, Trembling, and Fleeing: Mapping God's Spirit and Presence in the Book of the Twelve (Beth M. Stovell) Furry, Feathery, and Fishy Friends—and Insects—in the Book of the Twelve (Julie Woods) Twelve Books, One Theology? (John Goldingay) Authors from a variety of perspectives consider questions about hermeneutics and composition, reception history, theodicy, metaphors and characterization, and theology. These essays provide insights from the history of interpretation and the latest in scholarship.

Combining three volumes in one, this affordable edition brings noted evangelical scholars together to offer an authoritative, evangelical treatment of the minor prophets.

"The Oxford Handbook of the Minor Prophets provides a clear and engaging one-volume guide to the major interpretative questions currently engaging scholars of the twelve Minor Prophets. Essays by both established and emerging scholars explore a wide range of methodological perspectives"--

Provides a thorough introduction to the Old Testament prophetic books, considering their historical and social setting while surveying the important theological themes.

"John Phillips writes with enthusiasm and clarity, . . . cutting through the confusion and heretical dangers associated with Bible interpretation." —Moodymagazine

The Message of the Twelve explores the background and theological message of the Minor Prophets while providing specific exposition of each book.