The book of Isaiah addresses the problem of sin, showing the need for salvation. Isaiah is called by God to speak to the people of Judah and call attention to their wrongdoings—and the resulting judgment. But judgment is not the end of the story; the book also prophesies salvation and restoration. This hopeful picture is what made Isaiah such a compelling book to early Christians, who saw its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.

Jeremiah, the prophet of the new covenant, predicts Judah's Babylonian exile and ultimate restoration under the Davidic Messiah.

Jeremiah exhibits many great themes that stress God’s judgment on covenant infidelity and worldwide sin, as well as God’s determination to restore an international people for himself through the establishing of a new covenant.

The book of Lamentations confirms that the world, sadly, is full of suffering due to sin’s presence. The full effect of sin, and thus suffering, is held back only by God’s intercession. When God removes His hand of protection from Jerusalem, after years of waiting for the people to turn to Him, the city falls. And in its destruction is a glimpse of what it is like to live without God’s protection.

Lamentations shows the need for all people to turn to Yahweh; He is our hope. This is the only sort of resolution that Lamentations offers. The book’s final verse can be translated as a question: “Have you abandoned us, and are you angry with us beyond measure?” There is no answer, but the poet still expects to hear from God someday. In times of suffering and despair, we wait upon Yahweh—even when the way forward is unclear.

Ezekiel prophesied while living in Babylon. He explained that God’s people had experienced Yahweh’s judgment—seen in their Babylonian exile—because they had worshiped idols and turned away from Yahweh. Ezekiel sees God’s glory depart from Jerusalem but also envisions the hope of its return. There is judgment and mercy throughout the book; there is pain and new life.

The stories of Daniel show that God will look after His people. The first half of the book records events—set in Babylon, when God’s people were facing laws that opposed their faith—that demonstrate God’s care for and response to His people as they face hardships. The second half includes visions that communicate a broader view of God’s plan and His sovereignty over all nations. The book of Daniel gives comfort to those who are oppressed and dealing with tragedies.