What is the book of Obadiah about?
The book of Obadiah is a short book in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is believed to have been written by the prophet Obadiah, who lived in the 8th century BC. The book is a prophecy of judgment against the nation of Edom, a nation located in the southern part of the land of Israel.
The book begins with a warning to Edom that God will punish them for their pride and arrogance. It then describes the destruction that will come upon them, including the destruction of their cities and the death of their people. The book also speaks of the restoration of Israel and the coming of the Messiah.
The book of Obadiah is a powerful reminder of God’s justice and mercy. It is a reminder that God will punish those who are proud and arrogant but will also show mercy to those who repent and turn to Him. It is a reminder that God will ultimately bring justice and peace to the world.
Who are the main characters found in the book of Obadiah?
- Obadiah: The author of the book of Obadiah. He was a prophet of the Lord who wrote the book to warn the Edomites of their impending destruction.
- Edomites: The people of Edom, a nation located south of Judah. They were descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. Obadiah warned the Edomites of their impending destruction due to their mistreatment of the Israelites.
- Israelites: The people of Israel, the descendants of Jacob. Obadiah warned them of the Edomites’ mistreatment and impending destruction.
- God: The Lord God of Israel is mentioned throughout the book of Obadiah. He is the one who will bring destruction upon the Edomites for their mistreatment of the Israelites.
What are the main locations found in the book of Obadiah?
- Edom: Edom is the primary location of the book of Obadiah. It is a region located in the southern part of the Kingdom of Judah and is the homeland of the Edomites. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob.
- Jerusalem: Jerusalem is the capital of the Kingdom of Judah, and is mentioned several times in the book of Obadiah. It is the site of the Temple of Solomon and is the center of worship for the Israelites.
- Mount Zion: Mount Zion is a mountain located in Jerusalem, and is the site of the Temple of Solomon. It is also the place where God’s presence is said to dwell.
- Valley of Jehoshaphat: The Valley of Jehoshaphat is a valley located near Jerusalem, and is the site of the final judgment of God. It is also the place where the Israelites will be gathered together to receive their reward.
- Mount of Olives: The Mount of Olives is a mountain located near Jerusalem, and is the site of the ascension of Jesus. It is also the place where Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead.
What lessons should we take away from Obadiah?
- God is a God of justice and will punish those who do evil. Obadiah emphasizes that God will judge those who oppress and mistreat others. This is a reminder to us to be just and compassionate in our dealings with others.
- Pride and arrogance will be punished. Obadiah warns against pride and arrogance, which can lead to destruction. We should strive to be humble and recognize that God is the ultimate judge.
- God will restore the fortunes of the righteous. Obadiah reminds us that God will reward those who are faithful and obedient to Him. We should strive to live a life of faithfulness and trust in God’s promises.
- God will protect His people. Obadiah reminds us that God will protect His people from their enemies. We should trust in God’s protection and rely on Him for our safety and security.
What are some notable verses from the book of Obadiah?
- Obadiah 1:3: “The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in your lofty dwelling, who say in your heart, ‘Who will bring me down to the ground?'”
- Obadiah 1:15: “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.”
- Obadiah 1:17: “But in Mount Zion there shall be those who escape, and it shall be holy, and the house of Jacob shall possess their own possessions.”
- Obadiah 1:21: “Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.”
- Obadiah 1:24: “But the kingdom shall be the Lord’s, and he shall rule over the nations.”