Jeremiah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah were probably the last prophets to appear on the scene before the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, Judah, and Benjamin in 606 B.C. Nahum’s prophecy was about the coming destruction of Nineveh in 612 B.C.; we know this because in Chapter 3 he mentions the destruction of Thebes in about 663 B.C. by the Assyrians as in the past.
The Assyrians whose capitol was Nineveh were a major power in the middle east before the Babylonians. They were a ruthless nation that terrorized their neighbors. King Ahaz asked for the help of King Tiglath-Pileser, but the Assyrian betrayed him and made Judah a vassal nation. 2 Chronicles 28.
Theme: The Justice of God
1A. God is good to His followers but destroys those who rebel against Him. Chapter 1
2A. God proclaims the coming destruction of Nineveh and the freedom of Judah. Chapters 2-3
Key Verse: “The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in Him. But He will sweep away His enemies in an overwhelming flood. He will pursue His foes into the darkness of night.” Nahum 1:7-8 NLT.