Summary
The Books of Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah by Thomas Renz is a substantial new volume in the New International Commentary on the Old Testament (NICOT). Published by Eerdmans in June 2021, it offers a verse-by-verse exegesis of the three prophetic books, combined with a rich mix of translation, textual notes, literary analysis, and theological reflection. Alongside careful historical and canonical discussion, Renz engages the poetry of Nahum, the difficulty of Habakkuk 3, and the complex setting of Zephaniah, seeking to honour both the distinctive character of each book and their place within the “Book of the Twelve.”
Renz does more than unpack meaning: he helps us see how these short prophetic books speak across the centuries to the church of Christ. The commentary moves from exegesis to application, illuminating theological themes like God’s justice, idolatry, covenant faithfulness, comfort for the remnant, and hope in redemption. For pastors, teachers and thoughtful lay-readers, this is exactly the sort of resource that bridges academic rigour with spiritual depth and ministerial usefulness.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
If you preach or teach from the Minor Prophets you know how often Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah are neglected or handled superficially. This volume rescues these books from neglect by taking them seriously on their own terms. With careful attention to Hebrew, ancient Near-Eastern context, socio-historical background, canonical placement and redaction history, Renz offers a fully rounded scholarly foundation for sermons or serious study.
Moreover, Renz holds a pastor’s heart. His theological reflections are not academic showpieces but invitations for the church to take to heart what God says through these prophets. He does not hide the hardness of divine judgment, the horror of human rebellion, or the weight of covenant responsibility. But he also does not leave us there. He points toward grace, hope, and the promise of restoration in Christ. That balance—truth and hope, holiness and mercy—is exactly what the church needs.
Closing Recommendation
We believe this is a must-have commentary for any pastor, preacher or serious Bible teacher who seeks to handle the Minor Prophets faithfully. It combines rigorous scholarship with pastoral sensitivity and doctrinal soundness. If your library lacks a strong treatment of Nahum, Habakkuk or Zephaniah, this volume is worth acquiring.
We gladly recommend The Books of Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah by Thomas Renz as a first-rate resource for pulpit preparation, personal study, and congregational teaching.
Thomas Renz
Thomas Renz is a German-born Old Testament scholar whose work reflects a broadly evangelical and academically careful approach to the prophetic books, especially the Minor Prophets.
Renz has contributed significantly to the study of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah, combining close attention to the Hebrew text with sensitivity to literary form and theological message. His writing often highlights how the prophets address God’s people in seasons of confusion, judgment, and hope. With a steady hand, he helps modern readers grasp the pastoral weight of the prophetic word and its relevance for congregational life today.
Pastors appreciate Renz for his clear explanations, careful structure, and ability to draw theological threads without forcing connections. His work equips preachers to handle the Minor Prophets with confidence, providing the tools needed to trace God’s justice, mercy, and faithfulness through books that are often overlooked yet richly rewarding.
Key titles include Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah (NICOT) and The Rhetorical Function of the Book of Ezekiel.