The Prophets as Preachers: An Introduction to the Hebrew Prophets

When I read this book it gave such insight into the prophets that only great research could have brought out. It is a great reference tool for anyone who wants to study the prophets and see their roles as preachers, not only then but now. To look at the human and spiritual factor of being a prophet gives a view that is much needed in the times in which we live when many who say they are prophets really are not. When you read this book you really see what it took to be a prophet of God. I hope every one who has been called into the ministry and those who the Lord has called a prophet for a time such as this will get this book and read it over and over again.

This book is notable for its steady use of communication theory and the sociology of knowledge to evaluate the Biblical prophets. Smith analyzes God's use of the prophets as change agents in terms of the persuasiveness of their prophetic communication, the theology of their messages and their sociological involvement with their audience. Chapters 1 and 2 give theories about the nature of communication and social change, the remaining sixteen chapters apply the theories to each of the sixteen writing prophets, and a final chapter summarizes principles characterizing prophetic endeavors. After a short introduction suggesting the book's key issues, each chapter has several pages on "Social Setting" that give the historical context, structure of the social order and social location and role of the prophet. The main section of the chapter, entitled "Social Interaction," presents an outline of the book and then follows the book's own sequence in a review of its content. Recommended for college and seminary students who wish to have a better grasp on the OT Prophets.

Simply the best commentary on the prophets out there! Dr. Smith's dating of the prophets and interpretation of their messages shows careful, thoughtful, exegesis of the text and his presentation in writing is easy to follow. Any person can use this book for a study of the prophets and benefit greatly from it. Pastors - this one is a must-have for your library. When was the last time you preached a series on one or more of the prophets? Was it because you do not fully understand the messages they have? This book should kindle the desire to preach the prophets!