Obadiah

Purpose
Obadiah forecasted the Lords judgment upon Judahs neighboring nation of Edom due to its role in assisting the Babylonians in destroying Jerusalem. His message provided consolation to Judah, reminding them that God will ultimately bring the nations to justice.

Authorship & Genre

Like Joel, Obadiah gives no specific information regarding its date of writing. All we know is that it was written by a man named Obadiaha very common name in the Old Testament. However, the specifics of Obadiahs allow us to determine its date more reliably than Joel. Obadiah mentions Edoms role in the destruction of Jerusalem, and predicts Edoms destruction in turn. We know, then, that the book was probably written some time shortly after Jerusalem was destroyed.

Key Verse

Obadiah 15: For the day of the LORD draws near on all the nations. As you have done, it will be done to you. Your dealings will return on your own head. (NASB)

Structure
1 The Downfall of Edom Sins of Edom: Pride Exploitation 14 15 The Downfall of the Nations The Day of the Lord: Justice dealt to nations Salvation of Gods People 21

Theological Themes

Lex Talionis: Obadiah demonstrates that God will judge the nations of the world according to their treatment of others. In other words, an eye for an eye, (Exodus 21:23), or you reap what you sow (Gal. 6:7-10). Edom would face the same fate that they dealt to Judah. Pride: Edom is indicted primarily for their immense pride. Historically a brother nation to Israel, Edom consistently thought very highly of itself. The nation sought to put the younger brother in place on several occasions, and thought its stone fortress at Petra to be impenetrable. Throughout scripture, God is seen opposing the proud, but giving grace to the humble.