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This is the vision of Obadiah:
The book of Obadiah is the shortest in the Old Testament, consisting of only one chapter. The name "Obadiah" means "servant of the LORD," which is fitting for a prophet. The term "vision" indicates a divine revelation, suggesting that Obadiah received this message directly from God. Prophetic visions were a common way God communicated with His prophets, as seen in other books like Isaiah and Ezekiel.

This is what the Lord GOD says about Edom—
Edom, descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, had a long-standing enmity with Israel. The Edomites lived in the region south of the Dead Sea, known for its rugged terrain and strong fortresses. The phrase "Lord GOD" emphasizes God's sovereignty and authority over all nations, including Edom. The judgment against Edom is a recurring theme in the prophets, reflecting their pride and hostility towards Israel (see Isaiah 34, Jeremiah 49, and Ezekiel 25).

We have heard a message from the LORD;
The use of "we" suggests that this message was not only for Obadiah but was also confirmed by other prophets or leaders. It indicates a collective understanding or acknowledgment of God's revelation. The phrase underscores the importance of prophetic messages being recognized and validated within the community of believers.

an envoy has been sent among the nations to say,
The imagery of an envoy or messenger suggests a call to action among the nations. In ancient times, envoys were sent to deliver important messages or to rally support for military campaigns. This reflects the seriousness of the impending judgment and the divine orchestration behind the events. It also highlights the theme of God using nations to accomplish His purposes, as seen in other prophetic books like Habakkuk.

“Rise up, and let us go to battle against her!”—
This call to battle signifies a divine judgment against Edom. The nations are being summoned to execute God's justice. The language of rising up and going to battle is reminiscent of other biblical calls to action, such as in Judges and 1 Samuel. It underscores the inevitability of God's judgment and the futility of resisting His will. The battle against Edom serves as a type of the ultimate victory of God over all His enemies, foreshadowing the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.

1. Obadiah
The prophet who received the vision. His name means "servant of the LORD" in Hebrew, indicating his role as a messenger of God's word.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, Edom had a tumultuous relationship with Israel, often characterized by hostility and conflict.

3. The LORD GOD
The sovereign God of Israel, who communicates His judgment and plans through His prophets.

4. The Nations
Refers to the surrounding nations that are called to rise against Edom. This indicates a collective movement orchestrated by God.

5. The Envoy
A messenger sent among the nations, symbolizing the call to action against Edom. This reflects the divine initiative in the unfolding events.God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Obadiah's vision underscores God's control over nations and His ability to execute judgment according to His will. Believers can trust in God's justice and timing.

The Consequences of Pride
Edom's downfall is a direct result of its pride and arrogance. Christians are reminded to cultivate humility and depend on God rather than their own strength.

The Importance of Listening to God's Message
Just as Obadiah received and delivered God's message, believers are called to be attentive to God's word and share it faithfully with others.

The Role of Prophecy in Scripture
Prophecies like Obadiah's serve as reminders of God's faithfulness to His promises and His ultimate plan for redemption and justice.

Interpersonal Relationships Reflecting National Conflicts
The historical conflict between Israel and Edom can serve as a metaphor for personal relationships, encouraging believers to seek reconciliation and peace.1. How does the historical relationship between Israel and Edom help us understand the context of Obadiah's prophecy?

2. In what ways can pride lead to downfall in our personal lives, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty in Obadiah 1:1 provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty?

4. What lessons can we learn from Obadiah about the importance of delivering God's message to others?

5. How can the themes of judgment and redemption in Obadiah be connected to the broader account of Scripture, particularly in the New Testament?Genesis 25:23
The prophecy concerning Jacob and Esau, the ancestors of Israel and Edom, respectively. This sets the stage for the historical enmity between the two nations.

Psalm 137:7
A lament over Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, highlighting the deep-seated animosity and Edom's eventual judgment.

Jeremiah 49:14-16
A parallel prophecy against Edom, emphasizing the certainty of God's judgment and the futility of Edom's pride.

Call to the Battle Against Edom	G. G. Tomlinson.	Obadiah 1:1
God and Bad Men	Homilist	Obadiah 1:1
God and Bad Men	D. Thomas	Obadiah 1:1
The Divine Purpose in Relation to Humanity	Joseph Parker, D. D.	Obadiah 1:1
The Tragedy of Edom	W. S. Elmslie, D. D.	Obadiah 1:1
The Vision of Obadiah	A.C. Thiselton	Obadiah 1:1, 2
Edom Subdued	A.C. Thiselton	Obadiah 1:1-4