OLD TESTAMENT > PROPHECY > OBADIAH

OBADIAH

Obadiah, the shortest book of prophecy and shortest book in the Old Testament, offers a warning to the prideful nation of Edom that they will soon face destruction. This book recalls the longstanding history between Israel and Edom, starting with Jacob and Esau in Genesis 25.

Although this book might not appear very applicable or relevant, verses 12-14 offer a compelling and challenging description of not gloating in the failure of your enemies. This book, although addressed to the Edomites, can serve as a reminder to remain humble and not let pride allow you to have an inflated sense of self.

    • God’s sovereignty and justice 

    • Restoration and hope 

    • The kingdom of God representing all nations

    • Obadiah 

    • The Edomites 

    • Jacob and Esau

    • Author: Obadiah 

    • Date: 587-538 BC

    • Intended Audience: primarily the Edomites, descendants of Esau, and also the people of Judah who were experiencing hardship 

OBADIAH 1

EDOM’S PRIDE + GOD’S JUSTICE

Obadiah, a prophet of God, sends a message to Edom telling them to prepare for battle. The Edomites are a neighboring nation of the Israelites, with whom they have an ongoing rivalry. The Edomites are the ancestors of Esau, whereas Israel and Judah are the ancestors of Jacob. The story of Jacob and Esau can be found in Genesis 25–28.

2 Kings 25 recalls the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem, Judah’s capital city. During the invasion, Edom did not come to Judah’s aid, but instead acted as their enemy.

This letter is not one of good news for Edom, revealing that they are not as invincible as they perceive themselves and warning them against their own pride. Edom will be humbled, belittled, and ultimately despised.

Obadiah tells Edom that the nations will turn against them and that their kingdom will soon collapse. Because of their violence towards Jacob’s ancestors, they will be destroyed.

After detailing the destruction awaiting Edom, the book shifts to describing the Day of the Lord, a time when all of the nations will be judged righteously. During this time, the descendants of Jacob will thrive, but the descendants of Esau will perish. This prophecy serves as a warning against other prideful nations, alerting them that they may await the same fate as Edom. The last few verses of Obadiah offer hope that God will eventually reign over the new kingdom, restoring Israel and His people.