Many see the Minor Prophets as dusty old men who are irrelevant to the 21st Century world. However, on further reading, we encounter real people who were brave enough to challenge the attitudes and behaviours of their generation. Speaking prophetically, they called their nation back to God even when it cost them personally which it usually did. They suffered harassment, rejection and sometimes death but proclaimed their message faithfully. That is why I have called this book 'everybody hurts' their message was painful to deliver and painful to receive.
As you read this book, you will find out a little more about these men and the context in which they were bringing their message. This includes a synopsis of the political and social situation of the times, as well as a view of the history that formed the backdrop to their words. The message they were given to bring into those situations is summarised and then mapped to our own context. The reader will be left in no doubt that the words of these men are as relevant today as when they were first given. This book contains a prophetic message that speaks right into our own generation which we would do well to heed.
Richard Bradbury is based in Beverley, East Yorkshire and leads Beverley Community Church. He also represents the Groundlevel network of churches in Churches Together in England. Married with four children, his primary gifting is as a teacher to the Body of Christ.