Daily Bread for Sep 25, Oba

Today’s reading is Oba.

Obadiah prophesies strongly against Edom, a country populated by descendants of Jacob and Esau. They should have been allies with Israel but developed a history of antagonism toward her. 

Near the end of 2 Chronicles, we saw Edom, once conquered by David, rise against Jehoshaphat and Judah. Obadiah, written sometime shortly after Syria takes Israel and perhaps as late as when the Babylonians take Jerusalem, is written as a warning to Edom and all who come against God's people.

Obadiah prophesies doom for Edom in Oba 1-9. They will battle invading armies, but their real enemy is the Lord who is sending enemies against them. God is sovereign, even over the godless!

Edom's sin is proclaimed in Oba 10-14. Instead of helping their kinsmen, they attacked them when they were under siege, an act of cowardice and shame.

Edom's judgment is prophesied in Oba 15-21. All peoples who oppose God and His people will be defeated and their lands given to the children of God.

This is a pertinent book for us and the church today. We see the danger of opposing God’s people. We also see that God will defend and vindicate His church. The battle is the Lord's, even when God’s children may feel surrounded, betrayed and outnumbered. God will not be mocked nor will He or His people be opposed. Those who reject Him and His word will fall victim to his wrath. He will use everything in His creation to bring Himself glory, even those who reject Him--perhaps especially those who reject Him.