Reflections: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, and Joel

Isaiah:  This book is named after the Prophet Isaiah. His ministry lasts about 60 years, during the reigns of 4 Kings of Judah:  Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah.  Isaiah prophesies to Israel and Judah.  He tells the people to turn from their evil ways, if not, the judgment of GOD will come upon them.  Isaiah prophesies are crystal clear concerning JESUS CHRIST.

Jeremiah:  This book is named after the Prophet Jeremiah.  Jeremiah's ministry begins under Judah's last good King, Josiah and continues under the remaining 4 evil Kings: Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiahin, and Zedekiah.  Jeremiah boldly undertakes a great task of reminding the people to turn from their unrepentant ways. Jeremiah is even taken as a hostage to Egypt, where he continues his prophetic ministry.

Lamentations:  This book takes it name from its content.  It is believed to be written by Jeremiah and is about the destruction of Jerusalem.  Lament means to mourn.  Lamentations looks at the past and is a sequel to the book of Jeremiah.

Ezekiel:  Ezekiel means strengthened by GOD.  This book is named after the Prophet Ezekiel.  Ezekiel is given a vision from GOD to how to build the new temple in the new Jerusalem. His vision of the valley of dry bones pictures new life being breathed into the nation.

Daniel:  This book is named after the Prophet Daniel.  Daniel means- "GOD is my judge."  As part of the first group deported to Babylon, Daniel is educated and groomed for service in the Gentile government.  Daniel is a devout Jewish teenager who grows up under the courts of Nebuchadnezzar, where he continues to encourage both Jew and Gentile.

Hosea:  This is the first book of the Minor Prophets.  This book is named after the Prophet Hosea.  Hosea outlines Israel's restoration and new marriage Covenant.  Hosea's personal life graphically illustrates his prophetic message.

Joel:  This book is named after its author, the Prophet Joel.  Joel means "Jehovah is GOD".  The book of Joel is devastated by the invasion of Locusts.  Joel uses these happenings to warn the people of Judah that if they don't turn from their wicked and evil ways, then enemy armies will invade and destroy the land as the locusts did.