Bible Study: The Prophet Obadiah - Pride and Judgment
Introduction:
• Obadiah, whose name means "servant of the Lord," delivers a powerful message of judgment against the Edomites, a nation marked by pride, hatred, and violence towards God's people.
• Despite being the shortest book in the Old Testament, Obadiah's message is significant, highlighting God's sovereignty over all nations and His justice.
• We'll explore Obadiah's background, the historical context, and the theological implications of his prophecy.
I. Obadiah: The Prophet and His Message:
• Name Significance:
◦ Obadiah (עֹבַדְיָה, Ovadyah) means "servant of the Lord."
• Historical Context:
◦ Obadiah likely prophesied after the fall of the Northern Kingdom, during the reign of Manasseh in the Southern Kingdom.
◦ His message is directed specifically to the Edomites, a foreign nation.
• Book Outline:
◦ Obadiah consists of a single chapter, focusing on God's judgment against Edom.
◦ Like Jonah and Nahum, Obadiah addresses a foreign nation, showcasing God's universal concern.
• Purpose of the Book:
◦ To declare God's wrath and judgment against the Edomites for their pride and hostility towards Judah.
◦ To demonstrate God's sovereignty over all nations.
II. The Edomites: A History of Enmity:
• Descendants of Esau:
◦ The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob (Israel).
◦ The conflict between Jacob and Esau, stemming from Jacob's acquisition of Esau's birthright and blessing, fueled the Edomites' resentment.
• Historical Grievances:
◦ Esau harbored deep resentment towards Jacob, influencing the Edomites' hostile attitude towards Israel.
◦ Jacob's flight to Paddan Aram and the subsequent formation of the nation of Edom highlight the ongoing tension.
◦ Even after Jacob's return and a seeming reconciliation with Esau, the descendants of Esau maintained their animosity.
◦ The Edomites enmity towards the jews lasted until the time of Malachi.
◦ Herod the Great, who ruled during Jesus's birth, was an Edomite (Idumean).
• Pride and Security:
◦ The Edomites were known for their pride and arrogance, particularly due to the natural fortifications of their capital, Sela (Petra).
◦ Obadiah 1:2-3 highlights God's judgment against their pride and false sense of security.
• Petra's Strategic Importance:
◦ Petra's location on a major trade route contributed to the Edomites' wealth and sense of invulnerability.
◦ The Israelites' failed attempt to pass through Edom during the Exodus further exacerbated tensions.
III. Theological Implications:
• God's Justice:
◦ Obadiah demonstrates God's justice against those who oppress His people.
◦ Pride and violence incur divine judgment.
• God's Sovereignty:
◦ God's message to a foreign nation underscores His sovereignty over all nations.
◦ No nation is beyond God's reach or judgment.
• The Consequences of Hatred:
◦ The Edomites' persistent hatred and resentment led to their downfall.
◦ Unresolved conflict and bitterness have destructive consequences.
• The importance of brotherly love:
◦ The relationship between Edom and Israel highlights the importance of brotherly love.
IV. Application:
• Pride and Humility:
◦ How does Obadiah's message challenge us to examine our own pride?
◦ How can we cultivate humility in our relationships and before God?
• Justice and Compassion:
◦ How does God's judgment against Edom inform our understanding of justice?
◦ How can we demonstrate compassion towards those who are oppressed?
• Forgiveness and Reconciliation:
◦ What lessons can we learn from the Edomites' unresolved conflict?
◦ How can we pursue forgiveness and reconciliation in our relationships?
• Gods control:
◦ How does the book of Obadiah display Gods control over all nations?
• Gods justice:
◦ How does Obadiah show us that God will bring justice?
- Bible Study: The Prophet Isaiah - The Prince of Prophets
- Bible Study: The Prophet Micah - Justice, Mercy, and Humility
- Bible Study: The Prophet Joel - The Lord is God
Conclusion:
• Obadiah's prophecy is a powerful reminder of God's justice and His sovereignty over all nations.
• It serves as a warning against pride, hatred, and violence, and a call to humility and compassion.
• By studying Obadiah, we gain a deeper understanding of God's character and His enduring concern for His people.
