The Book Of Obadiah

Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, yet its message is weighty and far-reaching. The prophet speaks God’s judgement against Edom, a nation descended from Esau, because of its pride, violence, and hostility towards Judah in the day of Jerusalem’s distress. At the heart of the book is a warning that human pride, self-confidence, and cruelty will not escape the righteous judgement of God. Yet Obadiah is not only a message of judgement. It also points forward to the restoration of God’s people and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom. The book reminds us that the Lord rules over the nations, defends His covenant people, humbles the proud, and will finally establish His kingdom in righteousness. Its closing declaration, “the kingdom shall be the LORD’s,” captures the great hope that runs through the whole prophecy.