SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTER XXIII

Section I. Nature and History.

I.

NATURE:

              1. Meaning of the Words: Prophet; prophecy.

              2. Prophetical Mission: Its proper object essentially religious.

              3. Prophetical Inspiration:

              Described in its main features.

                            Contrasted with heathen divination.

              4. Prophetical Training (the schools of the prophets).

II.

HISTORY:

(Three Principal Periods.)

              1. Before Samuel:

              Prophets and prophetical utterances

              Before Moses; from Moses to Samuel.

                            The Mosaic law “a prophecy” (Matt. 11:13).

              2. From Samuel to the Babylonian Captivity:

              Rise of the prophetical order.

                            Oral and literary work of the chief prophets in

              Israel, Juda.

                            Attitude of the prophets towards

              The Jewish law and priesthood.

                                          Idolatry and “calf-worship.”

              3. Prophets of the Captivity and the Restoration:

              Special mission of Ezechiel and Daniel during the exile.

                            Old Testament prophecy closed with the announcement of “the angel of the covenant” (Mal. 3:1).