Obadiah

Author:

The book of Obadiah is authored by the Prophet Obadiah, as indicated in Obadiah verse 1.

Date of Writing:

The book was most likely written between 848 and 840 BC, after the Philistines and Arabians invaded.

Purpose of Writing:

Obadiah, the shortest book in the Old Testament with only 21 verses, is a message from the prophet condemning Edom for their sins against God and Israel. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, have a long-standing conflict with the Israelites, descendants of Jacob. The quarrel has lasted for over a millennium, leading to Edom's prideful actions like preventing Israel from passing through their land during the Exodus. The book emphasizes judgment from the Lord towards Edom.

Key Verses:

Obadiah 4, Though thou exalt thyself as the eagle, and though thou set thy nest among the stars, thence will I bring thee down, saith the LORD.
Obadiah 12, But thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress.
Obadiah 15, For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.

Brief Summary:

Obadiah's prophecy predicts the complete destruction of Edom due to their arrogance and lack of support for Israel in times of need. The book concludes with the promise of Zion's restoration in the Last Days under God's rule.

Foreshadowings:

Verse 21 hints at Christ and His Church, symbolizing saviors coming to Mount Zion to judge Esau and establish the Lord's kingdom. These saviors represent those who preach the Gospel and lead others to salvation.

Practical Application:

Remaining faithful to God will bring victory, and helping others in need is crucial. Pride is condemned, and our focus should be on Jesus Christ and the salvation He offers.