Lesson 5 of 5
In Progress

Theological Themes in Obadiah

The day of the LORD

Obadiah, like other prophets, speaks of “the day of the LORD,” an approaching time of judgment for sin and restoration of God’s people. (See Isaiah 13:6; Ezekiel 30:3; Joel 1:15; 2:1, 11, 31; Amos 5:18, 20.)

Retributive justice

In Obadiah 15, the prophet says to Edom, “As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head.” Just as Edom betrayed its brother Jacob (v. 10), so its own allies will betray it (v. 7). Just as Edom handed over Judah’s “survivors” to the enemy (v. 14), so it will have no “survivor” (v. 18). God will punish Edom and all the nations according to their sins.