Interpreting the prophetic books : an exegetical handbook / Gary V. Smith.

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

1. The nature of prophetic literature -- Analyzing prophecies -- The poetry of prophecy -- 2. Major themes in the prophetic books -- Isaiah -- Jeremiah -- Lamentations -- Ezekiel -- Daniel -- Hosea -- Joel -- Amos -- Obadiah -- Jonah -- Micah -- Nahum -- Habakkuk -- Zephaniah -- Malachi -- Thematic summary -- 3. Preparing for interpretation -- Know the historical setting -- Be aware of ancient near eastern prophecy -- Know how to use textual criticism -- Know where to find help from commentaries -- 4. Interpretive issues in prophetic texts -- Prophecy: Is it literal or metaphorical? -- Prophecy: Is it limited by its context? -- Prophecy: Is it conditional or unconditional? -- Prophecy: Is it about the near or far future? -- Difficulties between a prophecy and its New Testament fulfillment -- Prophecy: Is it always fulfilled? -- 5. Proclaming prophetci texts -- Getting oriented -- Shaping the presentation -- Determining the principle -- Reflecting on the application -- 6. From text to application -- Interpretation and application: a near future prophecy -- Interpretation and application: a distant prophecy.