Obadiah 1, Job 33:12-33, John 17:20-26, Revelation 9 Obadiah 1-21: Obadiah is the shortest book of the Old Testament, but its message is not to be measured by the amount of space it takes up physically in the canon. Probably written after the fall of Jerusalem, Obadiah prophecies against Edom for their role in handing the fleeing Israelites to their captors. Because the Edomites were related to the Israelites, they should have behaved better. God’s judgment comes against Edom: “Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised” (verse 2). This judgment is for a particular reason: “Because of the violence done to your brother Jacob” (verse 10). Or as it is expressed more fully:

Do not stand at the crossroads to cut off his fugitives; do not hand over his survivors in the day of distress. (verse 14)

Of course, this rule and judgment of God is not particular only to Edom, but part of God’s sovereign rule of all nations—the rule that will be expressed on the day of the LORD (verse 15):

For the day of the LORD is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head.

On the other hand, God’s people shall be restored (verses 20-21):

The exiles of this host of the people of Israel shall possess the land of the Canaanites as far as Zarephath, and the exiles of Jerusalem who are in Sepharad shall possess the cities of the Negeb. Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.

It is easy for us to think that God turns a blind eye to present evil. But a day is coming when the thoughts and actions of all people will be brought before God’s judgment throne. And on that day, only faith in Christ, and therefore being a part of his kingdom, will provide salvation. Let us then trust in him for his salvation. To receive God Centered Bible devotionals directly in your inbox, sign up here.]]>