Obadiah
The Prophet Against Edom
Name Information
- Meaning: "Servant of the Lord"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Obadiah was the prophet who delivered God’s shortest Old Testament prophecy — a single chapter condemning Edom for its pride and cruelty toward Judah. His message warned that the Day of the Lord would bring justice on all nations.
⏰ Likely during or after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem (6th century BC)
Roles
- Prophet
Story
Prophesied against Edom, descendants of Esau, for gloating over and taking advantage of Judah’s downfall.
Condemned their pride in their mountain strongholds.
Predicted that Edom would be completely brought down.
Proclaimed that 'the kingdom will be the Lord’s.'
Spiritual Significance
- Wrote the shortest book in the Old Testament.
- Announced God’s judgment on Edom for violence against Judah.
- Declared the Day of the Lord as a time of universal justice.
- Pointed to the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom.
Christ Connection
Obadiah’s promise that 'the kingdom will be the Lord’s' points to Christ’s reign over all nations.
What We Can Learn
- God opposes the proud and will bring them low.
- Mistreating God’s people invites His judgment.
- The Day of the Lord will bring justice to all nations.
Memory Verses
The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights.
— Obadiah 1:3The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.
— Obadiah 1:15
Key Passages
- Obadiah 1
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