The Book Of Obadiah
The entire "book" of Obadiah is only one page long. It is a prophecy given somewhere around 835 BC about the coming destruction of Edom. Edom was the homeland of the descendants of Esau, relentless enemies of Israel, located on the south and southeast of Israel, around Mount Seir. The area is famous for the magnificent stone-carved community of Petra, which is now extinct. The prophecies came to pass.
Obadiah 1:1 - "The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; ...thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, ...thence will I bring thee down."
God Controls Whether A Nation Will Be Small Or Great
As far back as the book of Numbers 24, the prophet Balaam foretold the coming of Messiah, "a star out of Jacob," who would take possession of the land that once belonged to the descendants of Esau - obstinate enemies of Israel. Jesus will reclaim that territory for Israel. "Edom shall be a possession, [Mount] Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly." From the beginning, God intentionally prevented Edom from ever becoming a major force in the earth.
Obadiah 1:2 - "Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen: thou art greatly despised."
There Is No Security Without God - Nothing Is Hidden
It is impossible to make something of lasting value for yourself if you are in conflict with God. The Edomites, Esau's descendants, were proud of their accomplishments - the beautiful city of Petra. But God said, "the pride of thine heart hath deceived thee." Set yourself as high as an eagle's nest - yet God will bring you down. Robbers will invade and you will not be able to stop them. Grape gatherers will do as they please in your vineyards.
Obadiah 1:6 - "How are the things of Esau searched out! how are his hidden things sought up!"
Prophecies Against The Edomites And Temanites
The Edomites dwelt peaceably with the Temanites and Amalekites - descendants of Esau's first son, Eliphaz - but they hatefully refused to live peaceably with Israel, their cousins. God will fiercely judge the belligerent adversaries of His people.
Obadiah 1:7-9 - "The men of thy confederacy have brought thee even to the border: the men that were at peace with thee have deceived thee, and prevailed against thee; ...Shall I not in that day, saith the LORD, even destroy the wise men out of Edom, and understanding out of the mount of Esau? And thy mighty men, O Teman, shall be dismayed."
As Thou Hast Done, It Shall Be Done Unto Thee
God hated the way the Edomites treated His people. They rejoiced in Israel's calamities and captivity, and took advantage of them in their downfall. "For thy violence against thy brother Jacob shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for ever." The rule of God is "touch not mine anointed," (Psalm 105:15). God will certainly get even with those who harm His people.
Obadiah 1:15 - "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."
House Of Jacob A Fire, House Of Esau For Stubble
Almighty God is interminably committed to Israel, and will NEVER forfeit His holy mount Zion in Jerusalem. Every enemy of Israel, ancient and modern will be made utterly desolate, and Israel will flourish and have glorious dominion in their promised land under the kingship of Jesus Christ and His saints.
Obadiah 1:18,21 - "The house of Jacob shall be a fire, ...and the house of Esau for stubble, and they shall kindle in them, and devour them; ...And saviours shall come up on mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau; and the kingdom shall be the LORD'S."
