OBADIAH BOOK OVERVIEW
OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECY: OBADIAH’S MESSAGE TO EDOM
Obadiah, the shortest book of prophecy and the shortest book in the Old Testament, contains a warning to the prideful nation of Edom that they would 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.
MAIN IDEAS: WARNING AGAINST PRIDE + ANIMOSITY
Obadiah warned the Edomites of their impending downfall caused by pride. (Obadiah 1:3-4)
Edom would be judged for their treatment of Israel. (Obadiah 1:10-14)
God proclaimed that everyone would be held responsible on the Day of the Lord. (Obadiah 1:15)
God promised redemption for His people, foreshadowing a restored Jerusalem. (Obadiah 1:21)
EXAMPLE OF GOD’S CHARACTER: DESIRES REPENTANCE
God’s judgment against Edom’s pride and betrayal serves as both a consequence and a warning. Throughout Scripture, God’s character reveals His desire for repentance—from the nation of Israel and all other nations. Through Obadiah’s message, God’s invitation for redemption extended to the Edomites. God did not want them to simply perish; He wanted them to sincerely repent.
God brings justice upon the rebellious, but His ultimate desire is for all people to turn from their sinful ways and be restored. The message of Obadiah serves as a reminder that while God does not tolerate sin, His purpose in judgment is redemptive.
Throughout the Bible, God displays patience and readiness to forgive those who seek Him authentically. This aspect of God’s character is shown in many of the prophetic books, in which warnings are given along with a message of hope for repentance and future restoration.
JESUS IN OBADIAH: LOVING TOWARD HIS NEIGHBOR
Edom, Israel’s closest neighbor in both relation and location, betrayed Israel in its time of greatest need. Edom’s pride and animosity led her to gloat over Israel’s suffering. Through Obadiah, God rebuked Edam’s response to Israel’s downfall. Instead of opposing their neighbors, they were called to show humility towards them.
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus embodied the opposite of Edom’s actions by teaching and demonstrating love for both neighbors and enemies (Matthew 5:44). Ultimately, Jesus died for the sins of His enemies, calling on God to forgive those who persecuted Him (Romans 5:8, Luke 23:34). Believers are also called to choose humility and compassion over pride and enmity, even in difficult relationships.
