Journal Through the Bible: Week 52 Friday

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Obadiah

A prophecy concerning Edom. There are various opinions as to when the troubles of Judah referred to in this book took place. Some suggest that this refers to the Babylonian invasion and consequent captivity but the notes of my Open Bible suggest that it was during the reign of King Jehoram when the Philistines and Arabians invaded Judah (see II Chronicles 21:16, 17 which is a parallel passage to what we have been reading in II Kings). Whenever it was, Edom was not a quiet observer but a willing participant who was helping to destroy Judah. God noted their treachery and declared that such would happen to them also.

Does God issue any commands?

• God commanded Obadiah to prophesy against Edom.

Does God make any promises?

• Even though Edom was proud the LORD promised to bring him down.
• God promised destruction to Edom, the country of Esau, for their violence against the Jews, the children of Jacob. The passage indicates that when the land of Judah was distressed by her enemies Edom hunted down any Jew who escaped and executed him.
• The people of the south would possess the mount of Edom, the people of the plains would possess Philistia and the fields of Ephraim and Samaria. Benjamin would possess Gilead.

Does this book teach anything about Jesus?

• "The day of the Lord" refers to judgment, in this case upon several nations. Jesus is that judge.
• In verse 21, the very last verse, it states that saviours shall come up on mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau. Again, Jesus is the judge. He is also the Lord over the kingdom.

Does this book teach anything about yet-future events?

•  We are told in New Testament prophecy of another "Day of the Lord" that is yet to come.