Obadiah 1:1

This is the vision of Obadiah: This is what the Lord GOD says about Edom--We have heard a message from the LORD; an envoy has been sent among the nations to say, "Rise up, and let us go to battle against her!"--

Study Bible

This is the vision of Obadiah
The word "vision" in Hebrew is "חָזוֹן" (chazon), which implies a divine revelation or prophecy. In the biblical context, a vision is not merely a dream or a personal insight but a communication from God, often concerning future events or divine will. Obadiah, whose name means "servant of Yahweh," is the prophet chosen to deliver this message. His role as a servant underscores the humility and obedience required to convey God's word. The brevity of the book of Obadiah, the shortest in the Old Testament, highlights the focused and urgent nature of this divine communication.

This is what the Lord GOD says about Edom—
The phrase "Lord GOD" combines "Yahweh" (יהוה) and "Adonai" (אֲדֹנָי), emphasizing God's supreme authority and covenantal relationship with Israel. The focus on Edom, descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, points to a historical and familial conflict. Edom's perpetual enmity with Israel is well-documented in the Scriptures, and this prophecy addresses their pride and hostility. The historical context reveals that Edom often opposed Israel, even aiding their enemies, which is why God’s judgment is pronounced against them.

We have heard a message from the LORD
The collective "we" suggests that this message is not just for Obadiah but for the community of believers. The "message" (Hebrew: שְׁמוּעָה, shemu'ah) indicates a report or announcement, often with a sense of urgency. This divine message is a call to action, reflecting the seriousness of God's impending judgment. The community's role is to listen and respond to God's word, reinforcing the idea that prophecy is meant to guide and instruct God's people.

and an envoy has been sent among the nations to say
The term "envoy" (Hebrew: צִיר, tsir) refers to a messenger or ambassador. In ancient times, envoys were crucial for communication between nations, especially in matters of war and diplomacy. This envoy represents God's initiative to stir the nations against Edom, illustrating that God is sovereign over all nations and uses them to fulfill His purposes. The sending of an envoy signifies the seriousness of the message and the certainty of its fulfillment.

'Rise up, and let us go to battle against her!'
The command "Rise up" (Hebrew: קוּמוּ, kumu) is an imperative, calling for immediate action. It reflects the urgency and decisiveness required in response to God's command. The call to "battle" (Hebrew: מִלְחָמָה, milchamah) against Edom is not just a physical confrontation but a divine judgment. Throughout the Bible, battles often symbolize spiritual struggles and the triumph of God's justice. This call to arms is a reminder of God's active role in history, executing judgment and vindicating His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Obadiah
The prophet who received the vision. His name means "servant of the LORD" in Hebrew, indicating his role as a messenger of God's word.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, Edom had a tumultuous relationship with Israel, often characterized by hostility and conflict.

3. The LORD GOD
The sovereign God of Israel, who communicates His judgment and plans through His prophets.

4. The Nations
Refers to the surrounding nations that are called to rise against Edom. This indicates a collective movement orchestrated by God.

5. The Envoy
A messenger sent among the nations, symbolizing the call to action against Edom. This reflects the divine initiative in the unfolding events.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Obadiah's vision underscores God's control over nations and His ability to execute judgment according to His will. Believers can trust in God's justice and timing.

The Consequences of Pride
Edom's downfall is a direct result of its pride and arrogance. Christians are reminded to cultivate humility and depend on God rather than their own strength.

The Importance of Listening to God's Message
Just as Obadiah received and delivered God's message, believers are called to be attentive to God's word and share it faithfully with others.

The Role of Prophecy in Scripture
Prophecies like Obadiah's serve as reminders of God's faithfulness to His promises and His ultimate plan for redemption and justice.

Interpersonal Relationships Reflecting National Conflicts
The historical conflict between Israel and Edom can serve as a metaphor for personal relationships, encouraging believers to seek reconciliation and peace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical relationship between Israel and Edom help us understand the context of Obadiah's prophecy?

2. In what ways can pride lead to downfall in our personal lives, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty in Obadiah 1:1 provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty?

4. What lessons can we learn from Obadiah about the importance of delivering God's message to others?

5. How can the themes of judgment and redemption in Obadiah be connected to the broader account of Scripture, particularly in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
The prophecy concerning Jacob and Esau, the ancestors of Israel and Edom, respectively. This sets the stage for the historical enmity between the two nations.

Psalm 137:7
A lament over Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, highlighting the deep-seated animosity and Edom's eventual judgment.

Jeremiah 49:14-16
A parallel prophecy against Edom, emphasizing the certainty of God's judgment and the futility of Edom's pride.