What does "the kingdom will be the LORD’s" teach about God's ultimate authority? Setting the Scene • Obadiah speaks into a moment when Edom, Israel’s proud neighbor, exploited Judah’s distress. • God, through Obadiah, promises judgment on Edom and deliverance for His covenant people. • The book closes triumphantly: “Saviors will ascend Mount Zion to judge the mountains of Esau, and the kingdom will be the LORD’s.” (Obadiah 1:21) Phrase Under the Microscope: “the kingdom will be the LORD’s” • “Kingdom” points to all realms—heavenly and earthly—where authority is exercised. • The verb “will be” underscores certainty; this is not wishful thinking but a settled future reality. • “The LORD’s” assigns sole ownership to Yahweh, the covenant God revealed in Scripture. What the Phrase Teaches about God’s Ultimate Authority • Absolute Sovereignty – “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19) – His rule is unchallenged; no rival can ultimately stand. • Universal Ownership – Every nation, institution, and individual life falls under His rightful claim. – “All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as He pleases…” (Daniel 4:35) • Irresistible Triumph – Human kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s dominion prevails. – Revelation 11:15 echoes Obadiah: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” • Eschatological Certainty – History is moving toward a climactic moment when God’s reign is openly displayed. – Isaiah 45:23 and Philippians 2:9-11 affirm that every knee will bow and every tongue confess. • Christ-Centered Fulfillment – The Father’s rule is manifested through the exalted Son. – 1 Timothy 6:15-16 calls Him “the blessed and only Sovereign… King of kings and Lord of lords.” Implications for Believers Today • Unshakable Confidence – Because the kingdom is the LORD’s, no worldly chaos can overturn His plan. Trust remains secure. • Single-Minded Allegiance – Our ultimate loyalty belongs to Him above political, cultural, or personal kingdoms. • Mission-Fueled Living – Knowing the end, we labor now to herald His reign, calling others to voluntary surrender before compulsory submission. • Steadfast Comfort in Suffering – Present injustices are temporary; final justice is guaranteed when the kingdom is fully revealed. • Worshipful Response – Recognition of God’s supreme authority naturally leads to heartfelt praise, reverence, and joyful obedience. |
    |