What does Habakkuk 1:1-4 teach us in Introduction: A Frustrated Prophet?

In this introductory sermon on Habakkuk 1:1-4, Dr. Toby Holt of New Geneva Theological Seminary teaches that God is not indifferent to evil but sovereignly governs history, even raising up wicked nations like Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar as instruments of His justice and glory. Habakkuk's cry of 'how long?' models how the righteous wrestle with the problem of a good, holy, sovereign God who permits wickedness for a season, and God's answer is that justice delayed is not justice averted. The just are called to live by faith, trusting that God will deal with all evil in His time and use every circumstance for His purposes.

Questions this sermon answers:

1. What is the main issue in this passage? In this introductory sermon on Habakkuk 1:1-4, Dr.

2. How does this text point us to Christ? It shows the need for God's grace and the hope fulfilled in the gospel.

3. How should Christians respond? With faith, repentance, and renewed trust in the Lord's Word.

"The punishment of the iniquity of the daughter of my people is greater than the punishment of the sin of Sodom, which was overthrown in a moment, with no hand to help her!" - Lamentations 4:6 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.