Obadiah

The Text

Context

Other references

None. He is not the same Obadiah we find alongside Elijah in 1 Kings 18.

Dates

It is not clear when Obadiah prophesied. There is no explicit statement in the book so it is case of looking for the clues. Some people believe him to be one of the earliest prophets. During the reign of King Jehoram, Jerusalem was attacked by Philistines and Arabs. Edom (2 Chronicles 21:16-17), instead of standing with Judah, took advantage of the situation (2 Kings 8:16-24).

Others believe he was one of the latest, speaking after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians when, again, Edom did not come to Judah's aid but captured fleeing Israelites.

c.845 B.C. or 586 B.C.

Context and Message

His prophecy is a declaration of judgement against Edom. Edom was descended from Esau the twin brother of Isaac. Being related, Edom should have defended Judah. Instead, they had taken advantage of their defeat. Obadiah says that their destruction will be complete.

Introductions And Overviews

Devotional

Commentaries

Teaching

See the entire channel (5 videos)

Jesus In Obadiah