Nahum 3:15

There the fire will devour you; the sword will cut you down and consume you like a young locust. Make yourself many like the young locust; make yourself many like the swarming locust!

Study Bible

There the fire will devour you;
This phrase signifies the impending judgment and destruction that Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, will face. Fire is often used in the Bible as a symbol of divine judgment and purification (e.g., Malachi 3:2-3). Historically, Nineveh was known for its grandeur and strength, yet the prophecy foretells its downfall through fire, which aligns with the eventual destruction of the city by the Babylonians and Medes in 612 BC. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice over nations.

the sword will cut you down
The sword represents warfare and the physical means by which Nineveh will be conquered. The Assyrians were known for their military prowess and brutality, yet here they are warned that they will fall by the same means they used to subdue others. This echoes the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7). The imagery of the sword cutting down also connects to the broader biblical theme of divine retribution against those who oppose God's will.

and consume you like a young locust.
Locusts in the Bible often symbolize destruction and overwhelming numbers (Exodus 10:12-15, Joel 1:4). The comparison to a young locust suggests vulnerability and the inevitability of being consumed. This imagery highlights the totality of Nineveh's destruction, as locusts leave nothing behind. It also serves as a metaphor for the futility of human strength against divine judgment.

Make yourself many like the young locust;
This phrase is a taunt, suggesting that no matter how numerous or strong Nineveh makes itself, it will not escape its fate. The irony is that multiplying like locusts, which are typically seen as a force of destruction, will not save them from their own destruction. This reflects the biblical theme that human efforts are futile without God's favor (Psalm 127:1).

make yourself many like the swarming locust!
The repetition emphasizes the futility of Nineveh's attempts to fortify itself. Swarming locusts are known for their overwhelming numbers, yet even such numbers will not prevent the city's downfall. This serves as a warning to all nations and individuals that reliance on human strength and numbers is ultimately vain without God's protection. The imagery also connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's control over creation and history, as seen in His ability to use even locusts as instruments of His will (Amos 4:9).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nineveh
The capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its great power and cruelty. Nahum prophesies its downfall.

2. Nahum
A prophet who delivers God's message of judgment against Nineveh.

3. Assyrians
The people of Nineveh, known for their military might and oppressive rule over other nations.

4. Locusts
Used metaphorically to describe the overwhelming and consuming nature of the coming judgment.

5. Fire and Sword
Symbols of destruction and divine judgment that will befall Nineveh.

Teaching Points

Divine Judgment is Inevitable
Just as Nineveh faced inevitable destruction, so too will all who oppose God's righteousness.

Pride Leads to Downfall
The Assyrians' pride and reliance on their strength led to their destruction, reminding us to remain humble before God.

God's Sovereignty
The prophecy against Nineveh demonstrates God's control over nations and history.

Repentance is Key
While Nahum's message is one of judgment, it serves as a warning for repentance and turning back to God.

The Power of God's Word
The fulfillment of Nahum's prophecy underscores the reliability and power of God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of locusts in Nahum 3:15 help us understand the nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Nineveh serve as a warning to modern nations or individuals?

3. How does the theme of divine judgment in Nahum connect with the message of repentance found in other prophetic books like Jonah?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Assyrians' pride and eventual downfall that apply to our personal lives?

5. How can we find comfort in God's sovereignty as demonstrated in the prophecy against Nineveh?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2
The imagery of locusts is also used in Joel to describe a devastating army, drawing a parallel to the consuming judgment of God.

Isaiah 10
Assyria is described as the rod of God's anger, but also as a nation that will face judgment for its arrogance and cruelty.

Revelation 9
Locusts are used symbolically to represent destructive forces unleashed during the end times, echoing the theme of divine judgment.