Summary of Prophets of the Old Testament

National Association of Christian Ministers Summary Series

Below is a summary of some of the more well known prophets of the Old Testament, along with scriptural citations for each. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, but it covers some of the key figures and their corresponding biblical references:

 

1. Isaiah:

– Summary: Isaiah prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah. His prophecies often pointed to the coming Messiah and the restoration of Israel.

Scripture: Book of Isaiah – Isaiah 1:1

 

2. Jeremiah:

– Summary: Jeremiah was called to be a prophet to the nations. He warned Judah about their sinfulness and the impending judgment from God, urging them to repent and turn back to God.

– Scripture: Book of Jeremiah – Jeremiah 1:1-3

 

3. Ezekiel:

– Summary: Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile. His messages included both warnings of judgment for Israel’s sins and hope for future restoration.

– Scripture: Book of Ezekiel – Ezekiel 1:1

 

4. Daniel:

– Summary: Daniel was taken into Babylonian captivity, where he served in the royal court. He interpreted dreams and visions, revealing God’s plans for both empires and the future.

– Scripture: Book of Daniel – Daniel 1:1-6

 

5. Hosea:

– Summary: Hosea’s personal life became an illustration of God’s relationship with unfaithful Israel. He called the people to repentance and promised God’s forgiveness and restoration.

– Scripture: Book of Hosea – Hosea 1:1

 

6. Joel:

– Summary: Joel prophesied about a locust plague as a warning of the impending “Day of the Lord.” He encouraged repentance and promised God’s blessings on the repentant.

– Scripture: Book of Joel – Joel 1:1

 

7. Amos:

– Summary: Amos, a shepherd from Tekoa, prophesied against Israel’s social injustice and religious hypocrisy. He warned of God’s judgment and called for genuine repentance.

– Scripture: Book of Amos – Amos 1:1

 

8. Obadiah:

– Summary: Obadiah pronounced judgment on the nation of Edom for their pride and mistreatment of Israel. He also foresaw Israel’s eventual restoration.

– Scripture: Book of Obadiah – Obadiah 1:1

 

9. Jonah:

– Summary: Jonah was sent to the city of Nineveh to call its people to repentance. Initially, he resisted his mission but later obeyed, witnessing God’s mercy and compassion.

– Scripture: Book of Jonah – Jonah 1:1

 

10. Micah:

– Summary: Micah prophesied against corruption and injustice in both Israel and Judah. He also announced the birth of the Messiah in Bethlehem.

– Scripture: Book of Micah – Micah 1:1