Criticizes Edom for its Pride
The Bible has nine men with the name Obadiah, but the prophet is the best known among them. Overlapping Habakkuk and following him is Obadiah.
His one-chapter book in the Bible records what God reveals to him in a vision.
He likely lives in Judah. His prophecy addresses the nation of Edom, descendants of Esau. Because he is a contemporary of Habakkuk, the prophet’s ministry may occur during the reigns of Jehoiachin or Zedekiah.
Among other things, Obadiah criticizes Edom for its pride. The primary issue, however, is not what the people of Edom did but what they didn’t do.
When foreign armies attacked Jerusalem, they did nothing to help. They stood aloof and watched (Obadiah 1:11).
Theirs is not an act of commission, but of omission. Their sin is inaction.
In what ways are we proud today?
What are our sins of inaction?
[Read about Obadiah in Obadiah 1:1. Discover more in Proverbs 16:18 and 1 John 2:16.]
Learn about 100 more biblical characters in More Old Testament Sinners and Saints, available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Get your copy today.
More Old Testament Sinners and Saints is part of the Bible Character Sketches series.
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.