Nahum 3: Group Study Handout

Overview

Nineveh is called a bloody city, full of lies and robbery (vv. 1-2). The noise of chariots and horses fills the air as slain bodies cover the ground (vv. 2-3). The city’s violence is linked to the ‘alluring prostitute’ who leads nations into sin (v. 4). Yahweh declares His judgment against Nineveh, exposing its shame and making it a spectacle for the nations (vv. 5-6). People will flee from the ruins and lament the city's destruction (v. 7).

Key verse

“Behold, I am against you,” says Yahweh of Armies, “and I will lift your skirts over your face. I will show the nations your nakedness, and the kingdoms your shame.”

Nahum 3:5 (WEB)

Outline

1. Nahum 3:1–4 Condemnation of Nineveh's Violence
2. Nahum 3:5–7 Divine Judgment Declared
3. Nahum 3:8–10 Comparison to No-Amon's Fall
4. Nahum 3:11–15 Impending Destruction Described
5. Nahum 3:16–18 Weakness of Nineveh's Leaders
6. Nahum 3:19 Finality of Nineveh's Fate

Discussion questions

1. In v1, what specific terms describe Nineveh as a 'bloody city'?
2. What does 'the multitude of the prostitution' in v4 indicate about Nineveh's influence?
3. In v7, what does it mean that 'who will mourn for her' regarding Nineveh's fate?
4. In v19, why is the injury described as 'fatal' and what implications does this have?
5. When have you felt the effects of a 'bloody city' in your community or surroundings?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Nahum 3: Nahum 2, Jeremiah 51, Isaiah 47.

Before next time: read Habakkuk 1.