InstaStudy

The Prophecy of Obadiah: God's Justice and Restoration

This study explores the book of Obadiah, focusing on God's unwavering justice against pride and cruelty, particularly as demonstrated in the judgment of Edom. It highlights the singular power and sovereignty of the Lord, who ultimately delivers His people and establishes His eternal kingdom.

1. Edom's Pride and Impending Judgment

1.1 The Divine Decree Against Edom

Verses: Obadiah 1:1; Obadiah 1:2
  • The Lord's word is sovereign and will be fulfilled.
  • Edom's perceived strength is nothing before the Almighty.

1.2 Edom's Arrogance and False Security

Verses: Obadiah 1:3; Obadiah 1:4
  • Pride leads to a fall, as the Lord resists the proud.
  • No one can hide from the Lord's judgment, no matter how high they dwell.

2. The Reasons for Edom's Condemnation

2.1 The Betrayal by Allies

Verses: Obadiah 1:7
  • Trust in man is futile; only the Lord is a sure refuge.
  • The Lord exposes treachery and brings it to naught.

2.2 The Destruction of Edom's Wisdom and Might

Verses: Obadiah 1:8; Obadiah 1:9
  • Human wisdom cannot thwart the Lord's divine plan.
  • The Lord alone is mighty to save and to destroy.

2.3 Edom's Violence Against Jacob (Israel)

Verses: Obadiah 1:10; Obadiah 1:11
  • The Lord remembers injustice and will avenge His people.
  • Brotherly hatred and indifference to suffering are condemned.

2.4 Edom's Cruelty in Israel's Distress

Verses: Obadiah 1:12; Obadiah 1:13; Obadiah 1:14
  • Rejoicing in another's calamity is a grievous sin before the Lord.
  • Exploiting the vulnerable incurs the severe wrath of the Almighty.

3. The Day of the Lord and Universal Judgment

3.1 The Imminence of the Day of the Lord

Verses: Obadiah 1:15a
  • The Lord's timing is perfect for judgment and deliverance.
  • A day of reckoning is coming for all nations.

3.2 Retribution for All Nations

Verses: Obadiah 1:15b; Obadiah 1:16
  • As you sow, so shall you reap; the Lord's justice is precise.
  • The Lord's judgment is universal, affecting all who oppose His will.

4. Israel's Deliverance and Restoration

4.1 Salvation on Mount Zion

Verses: Obadiah 1:17a
  • The Lord preserves His people and provides a place of refuge.
  • Holiness will characterize the Lord's dwelling place and His people.

4.2 Israel's Possession of Their Inheritance

Verses: Obadiah 1:17b; Obadiah 1:18
  • The Lord restores what was lost and fulfills His promises.
  • Israel will triumph over its enemies through the Lord's power.

4.3 Expansion of Territory and Dominion

Verses: Obadiah 1:19; Obadiah 1:20
  • The Lord's promises of inheritance are sure and expansive.
  • His people will possess the land and extend their borders.

4.4 The Kingdom Belongs to the Lord

Verses: Obadiah 1:21
  • Saviors will arise to execute the Lord's judgment and establish His rule.
  • The Lord Jesus Christ is King of Kings; His dominion is eternal.