THE END!!!

**Text: Nahum 3**

**Introduction:**

Good morning, beloved congregation. Today, we turn our attention to the book of Nahum, particularly chapter 3. This is not an easy passage; it speaks of judgment, destruction, and the ultimate end of a city that once thrived—Nineveh. Yet within this sobering text, we find vital lessons about justice, accountability, and the hope of renewal.

**I. The Context of Nahum:**

To grasp the weight of Nahum 3, we must first understand its context. Nahum prophesies against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, known for its brutal conquests and oppressive regime. The Assyrians were notorious for their violence, idolatry, and exploitation. Nahum’s prophecy comes as a reassurance to the people of Judah—God sees their suffering, and justice is coming.

**II. The Harsh Reality of Judgment:**

Nahum paints a vivid picture of Nineveh's impending destruction. He describes the city as a “bloody city” filled with lies, deceit, and cruelty (Nahum 3:1). The imagery is graphic: chariots rushing, horses galloping, and the chaos of war. This judgment is not arbitrary; it is the result of Nineveh's persistent disobedience and moral corruption.

Matthew 23:27 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness. 28 So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

- **Application:** We must reflect on our own lives and communities. What injustices do we tolerate? Are we complicit in systems that perpetuate harm? Just as Nineveh faced consequences, we, too, are called to account for our actions.

**III. The Nature of God’s Justice:**

In Nahum, we see that God's justice is both fierce and fair. It serves as a reminder that while God is loving and merciful, He is also righteous. Justice must prevail. Nahum’s message reveals that God’s patience has limits. There is a time when the scales tip, and the cry for justice reaches its zenith.

- **Illustration:** Think about a river. As it flows, it gathers debris—grief, pain, injustice. Eventually, it floods over its banks. This is how God’s justice operates. It may seem slow, but it is sure and inevitable.

**IV. The Consequences of Rebellion:**

Nahum 3 goes on to detail the destruction that befalls Nineveh. Verse 6 says, "I will throw filth at you and treat you with contempt." This signifies not just physical ruin but spiritual humiliation. The proud will be humbled, and those who have trampled on others will find themselves trampled.

- **Reflection:** What does this say about our attitudes? Are we acting with humility, or are we striving for power at the expense of others? God calls us to a different way—a way of love, justice, and service.

**V. A Message of Hope and Renewal:**

Despite the grim nature of Nahum’s prophecy, we can glean a message of hope. The end of Nineveh is not just an end; it is a transition. For God’s people, it signifies a new beginning. As oppression falls, there is room for restoration.

- **Conclusion:** Just as Nineveh's end led to a new chapter for Judah, we, too, can experience renewal. In Christ, we find our hope. The end of our old ways—of sin, despair, and injustice—can lead to new life.

**Call to Action:**

As we contemplate the end of Nineveh, let us consider what ends need to happen in our own lives. What do we need to let go of? What injustices do we need to confront? May we be bold in our commitment to justice, compassion, and renewal.