Obadiah 1:21

The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion to rule over the mountains of Esau. And the kingdom will belong to the LORD.

Study Bible

The deliverers
The term "deliverers" in Hebrew is "מושׁיעים" (moshi'im), which can also be translated as "saviors" or "rescuers." This word evokes the image of those who are divinely appointed to bring salvation and justice. In the historical context, deliverers were often seen as leaders or judges raised by God to rescue Israel from oppression, reminiscent of the judges in the Book of Judges. Spiritually, this points to the ultimate Deliverer, Jesus Christ, who brings salvation to all who believe.

will ascend
The phrase "will ascend" suggests a movement towards a higher place, both physically and spiritually. In the Hebrew context, ascending a mountain often symbolizes drawing closer to God, as mountains were seen as places of divine encounter. This ascent is not just a physical journey but a spiritual elevation, indicating a rise to a position of authority and responsibility.

Mount Zion
"Mount Zion" is a significant biblical location, often representing the city of Jerusalem and the spiritual center of God's kingdom. In the Hebrew Bible, Zion is synonymous with God's presence and His covenant with His people. It is a place of refuge, worship, and divine rule. Theologically, Mount Zion symbolizes the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

to judge
The word "judge" in Hebrew is "שׁפט" (shaphat), which means to govern, to rule, or to execute justice. This is not merely a legal judgment but a righteous and divine administration of justice. In the biblical narrative, judgment is often associated with restoration and the setting right of wrongs. It reflects God's sovereignty and His commitment to justice and righteousness.

the mountains of Esau
The "mountains of Esau" refer to the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, Edom was often in conflict with Israel, and the mountains symbolize the strongholds and pride of Edom. In a broader sense, this phrase represents the judgment of all nations and powers that oppose God's people. It is a reminder of the ultimate triumph of God's justice over human pride and rebellion.

and the kingdom
"The kingdom" here refers to God's sovereign rule over all creation. In the Hebrew context, the kingdom is not just a political entity but a divine reality where God's will is perfectly enacted. This phrase anticipates the eschatological hope of God's eternal reign, where His authority is recognized and embraced by all.

will belong to the LORD
This final phrase emphasizes the ultimate ownership and authority of God over all things. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred name of God, signifying His eternal and unchanging nature. The declaration that the kingdom will belong to the LORD is a powerful affirmation of God's ultimate victory and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan. It inspires believers with the hope and assurance that God's purposes will prevail, and His kingdom will be established forever.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Deliverers
These are the saviors or leaders who will ascend Mount Zion. In the context of Obadiah, they represent those who will bring about God's justice and restoration.

2. Mount Zion
A significant biblical location, often symbolizing God's holy presence and the center of His kingdom. It is a place of deliverance and divine rule.

3. Mountains of Esau
Refers to the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau. In the prophetic context, it symbolizes opposition to God's people and His kingdom.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is sovereign and whose kingdom will ultimately prevail.

5. The Kingdom
Represents God's ultimate rule and authority over all nations, emphasizing the eschatological hope of God's people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Obadiah 1:21 emphasizes that the ultimate authority and kingdom belong to the LORD. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God's plans will prevail despite current circumstances.

Role of Deliverers
The deliverers ascending Mount Zion symbolize God's use of His people to bring about justice and restoration. Christians are called to be agents of God's kingdom, promoting His justice and righteousness.

Judgment and Restoration
The judgment of the mountains of Esau signifies God's justice against those who oppose Him. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning with God's purposes and the hope of restoration for His people.

Eschatological Hope
The promise that "the kingdom will belong to the LORD" points to the future hope of God's complete reign. Believers are encouraged to live with an eternal perspective, anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of deliverers in Obadiah 1:21 relate to the role of believers today in advancing God's kingdom?

2. In what ways does Mount Zion serve as a symbol of hope and divine presence throughout the Bible?

3. How can understanding the judgment of the mountains of Esau help us navigate challenges and opposition in our own spiritual journey?

4. What practical steps can we take to align our lives with the truth that "the kingdom will belong to the LORD"?

5. How do the themes of judgment and restoration in Obadiah connect with the broader account of redemption found in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 2
This psalm speaks of God's anointed king and the establishment of His kingdom, echoing the theme of divine rule found in Obadiah.

Revelation 11:15
This verse proclaims the coming of God's kingdom, aligning with the prophetic vision of God's ultimate reign in Obadiah.

Isaiah 2:2-4
Describes the exaltation of Mount Zion and the establishment of God's rule, similar to the deliverance and judgment themes in Obadiah.