How does Nahum 1:15 encourage us to share the Gospel of peace today? Text of Nahum 1:15 “Look to the mountains—the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace! Celebrate your feasts, O Judah; fulfill your vows. For the wicked one will never again invade you; he will be completely cut off.” (Nahum 1:15) Historical Setting: Real Deliverance, Real Messenger • Nahum announces God’s coming judgment on Nineveh, the Assyrian stronghold that had terrorized Judah. • The “good news” is literal: Judah will be freed to worship without fear once the oppressor falls. • History confirms the prophecy—Nineveh collapsed in 612 BC—showing Scripture’s reliability. Key Observations in the Verse • “Good news” (besorah) signals decisive victory. • “Proclaims peace” points to lasting shalom, not a brief cease-fire. • “Celebrate your feasts … fulfill your vows” shows rescued people returning to wholehearted worship. • “Never again invade you” underscores the finality of God’s triumph over evil. Gospel Connections • Isaiah 52:7 mirrors Nahum’s wording; Paul applies it to Gospel preaching in Romans 10:15. • Jesus fulfills the promise of peace (Luke 2:10-14), canceling the dominion of sin and death (Hebrews 2:14-15). • Ephesians 6:15 pictures every believer wearing “the readiness of the gospel of peace,” echoing the messenger’s feet. • Colossians 1:19-22 shows that Christ reconciles us to God, the ultimate peace Nahum foreshadows. Motivation to Share the Gospel Today • We announce a victory already accomplished in history, guaranteeing credibility. • Christ’s peace ends hostility with God, offering what the world cannot (John 14:27). • Knowing evil will be “completely cut off” (Revelation 20:10) emboldens us to speak. • Our message invites hearers into joyful worship—modern “feasts” of praise and obedience. Practical Ways to Carry the Good News - Keep the core clear: Jesus died and rose to secure peace with God. - Use your “feet”: step into workplaces, neighborhoods, and digital spaces where hope is scarce. - Display joy; a celebrating life authenticates the message. - Support missionaries crossing today’s “mountains” of culture and language (Matthew 28:19-20). - Pray, give, and speak until others join the feast of freedom in Christ. |