I recently finished preaching through the book of Habakkuk. This short Old Testament book is so relevant to our world today. The prophet’s lament over the Babylonian invasion is mirrored in our day as the Russian war machine grinds down Ukrainian cities. The Covid pandemic raises age-old questions about human suffering that Habakkuk also raises. Theologically, Habakkuk provides rich reflection on “the just shall live by faith” (Hab 2:4), lament, and prayer. From a biblical-historical standpoint, Habakkuk introduces people to one of the most important events for understanding the Old Testament–the Exile. This series was one of the most profound Old Testament exegetical series that I have done over the last twenty years.

Using Heath Thomas’s commentary on Habakkuk as my go-to reference, I constructed an eight week series. In a couple sermons, I focused on a smaller section of text to have more time for a deeper treatment. For instance, later biblical books and influential theologians quote Habakkuk 2:4, so I spent more time on that passage; even though structurally it belonged to a larger section. Likewise, I broke off Habakkuk 3:1-2 from the psalm/prayer of chapter 3 in order to speak about the larger theme of prayer and lament in Hebrew writing. As you preach through the book, you will find your own areas of focus. Below are links to the sermon audio. I hope they prompt you to look deeper into this rich and relevant prophetic book.

• Living by Faith When Your World is Falling Apart
• Habakkuk 1:1-4 Injustice and sin among God’s people.
• Habakkuk 1:5-11 When God’s answer confuses and disturbs you.
• Habakkuk 1:12-2:1 God, why is the world so messed up?! 
• Habakkuk 2:2-5 The just shall live by Faith.
• Habakkuk 2:6-20 Woe to the unjust
• Habakkuk 3:1-2 Praying
• Habakkuk 3:3-15 The Lord is on the move again, like from Egypt
• Habakkuk 3:16-19 Trusting, waiting, and rejoicing even when the world is falling apart