The Gospel in Obadiah - Sample

The Gospel in

Obadiah hope for believers in God’s wisdom and power

Contributors Carlos Astorga, Th.M. Rhome van Dyck, Th.M. S. Jonathan Murphy, Ph.D. Vanessa van Dyck, M.Ed., M.A.[BS]

Field Notes a journal of exploration and discovery

The Gospel in Obadiah: hope for believers in God’s wisdom and power Field Notes Copyright Š 2010 Sacra Script Ministries Published by: Sacra Script Ministries 2001 West Plano Parkway, Suite 1010, Plano, TX 75075 www.SacraScript.org Printed in the United States of America All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of Sacra Script Ministries.

0811.2

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The Purpose of Sacra Script __________________________________________

In the book of Acts chapter 8, Philip was prompted by the Holy Spirit to catch up with an Ethiopian eunuch reading from Isaiah 53 in his chariot. Philip asked the eunuch if he understood what he was reading. The eunuch replied, “How could I unless someone explains it to me?” The experience of the eunuch is common to most people. Just like Philip, Sacra Script’s goal is to explain the stories of Scripture in order to lead you to the glorious message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Sacra Script creative team includes gifted pastor-teachers and biblical educators. We seek to explain the Bible within the context in which it was written and help you learn the necessary skills for application. We have also designed exercises and study questions to help you remember and respond to what you have learned so that your Bible study does not end at information but transformation. We have carefully included many different tools to help you understand God’s Word. These Field Notes include detailed written explanations, outlines, word studies, pictures, notes, illustrations, maps, and timelines in order to capture the meaning of the text in its ancient context. As a result, this book is part guide, part atlas, part Bible dictionary, part history, and part student workbook.

Whether you have never opened the Bible or are seasoned in the faith, these Field Notes provide integrated learning of the Bible. Our resources also include an Expedition Guide for pastors, teachers, and facilitators which utilize additional notes, references, and teaching aids. Video and audio versions designed to better engage visual and auditory learners are also available. Lastly, a digital version guides the student through the biblical text online or through a variety of media technologies.

At Sacra Script, our prayer is that through the study of God’s Word, you would come to understand the Bible’s central message: Jesus Christ. God’s perfect and righteous Son came to earth to pay the wages of our sin by dying on a cross. Three days later he rose, conquering death, and now sits at the right hand of the Father petitioning on our behalf.

You can have all of your sins forgiven by trusting in Jesus and his work on the cross. This is the good news. This is the gospel, and all of Scripture points to it.

for more information visit

www.SacraScript.org

This book is dedicated to our faithful supporters.

Without you, this work would not be possible.

May God use these words to build and edify his Church for the glory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Table of Contents

__________________________________________

I. How does this book work?

Keys to your Field Notes Survey the Land Excavate the Site Analyze the Find

vii

Understanding the design The art of active learning Old and New Testament scrolls

x xi xii

II. Survey the Land Field study 1: A family conflict became a long war of nations

Obadiah background Discoveries

1 11

III. Excavate the Site Field study 2: Pride is deceptive before a sovereign God

Obadiah 1–9 Discoveries

19 29

Field study 3: Pride degenerates into violence and leads to destruction

Obadiah 10–14 Discoveries

39 49

Field study 4: The day of the LORD will come to all

Obadiah 15–21 Discoveries

59 69

IV. Analyze the Find Field study 5: Believers will find hope in God’s wisdom and power

Obadiah in Scripture Discoveries

79 89

V. Toolbox Glossary Tables and charts Biblical covenants The day of the Lord Salvation as re-creation

95 100

Scripture index

105

v

Brother Esau O bitter brother Esau, filled with anger and lament For Jacob took your birthright and then inheritance The younger ruled the elder as promised by our God For “Esau I have hated, but Jacob have I loved.”

But Jacob’s disobedience and straying from the Lord Brought Israel under cursing according to his word But Edom you rejoiced in our destruction on that day And Esau, you joined in the violence armed with vengeful hate.

O Edom full of pride for your wise men and mighty wars Your lofty mountains hide you and set your nests among the stars Build high your lofty houses, build up on mountainous ground But from there brother Esau, the Lord will tear you down.

For there is an envoy coming, an army set for war That brings God’s righteous judgment on the Great Day of the Lord Your wrath will come upon you, your deeds on your own head For what you’ve done to Jacob, God will repay with death.

From Jacob and from Esau see the pattern of God’s plan He judges prideful scoffers but lifts up humble man The prophet points to Christ, the fulfillment of all things Jesus, our divine Judge and sovereign righteous King.

Vanessa van Dyck

vi

How does this book work?

Field Notes

Introduction

Keys to your Field Notes __________________________________________

Welcome to your Field Notes on Obadiah. You are about to embark on a journey of discovery. Your destination is the ancient world of the prophet Obadiah. In order to be ready for your exploration of this inspired book, we highly recommend you spend a few minutes understanding the way your Field Notes work. This book serves as a guide to the ancient biblical text as well as a journal for your discoveries along the way. Let’s get started.

Studying the Bible Studying the Bible is much like heading off into an unknown land to dig around the ruins of an ancient civilization. You need to know where to dig, what you are discovering, and what is significant about what you find. This book will guide you on a journey of ancient discovery: the discovery of the meaning of the biblical text.

A Field Study Your Field Notes are divided into individual field studies.

Each Field Study is designed to take a minimum of 30 minutes.

The content of the Field Study takes at least 15 minutes, and the remainder is for Discoveries including discussion questions, exercises, and activities. Every Field Study contains over an hour’s worth of questions and activities. They are designed for you to pick and choose the ones that are most helpful for you or your group.

This Bible study follows the metaphor of an expedition, or a quest for biblical and theological discovery. Your Field Notes contain three specific parts which correspond to the three steps used in an ancient dig. Each step will help you in the process of understanding and applying God’s Word to your soul. Each Field Study begins with learning the content and meaning of the text, followed by a section called Discoveries, which includes discussion questions, exercises, and activities to apply the text to your life. Let’s begin by understanding the three steps.

Step one: Survey the land The first step to making a discovery is a comprehensive survey of the land, notating everything that is around. In your Field Notes, the site is the biblical book we will study. This inspection helps us to better understand the characteristics of the terrain. With regard to the Bible, our survey helps us see the function of a book as part of the grand

vii

H How does this book work?

Introduction

Field Notes

story of Scripture. We see all the general aspects that provide us the information we need to appreciate the significance of the text once we start our excavation.

Our survey requires the right tools: a compass to know in what direction we are going and a map to understand the lay of the land.

Our biblical survey will explore issues related to the historical background of the book, date of composition, author, and intended audience. We will also learn the significance of the book in the Bible, its literary style, and the necessary information for a detailed understanding. Essentially, we will learn all we can to understand what the original audience already knew when they received the writing.

This way, as we read the biblical text, we will be closer to thinking the same thoughts as the original audience, and therefore have the same understanding they did. This guides us in correct interpretation.

Step two: Excavate the site Once we have surveyed the general details of our site, that is, of the book of the Bible we are studying, we proceed with a series of excavations of the land. This will mean hard work with the pick and shovel and sometimes delicate work with a brush or cloth. We will divide the book into units of thought generally composed of a few verses and in some cases, a few paragraphs that make up a single Field Study. We will dig into the details of the biblical text in order to unearth its treasures.

Discoveries Each Field Study ends with several pages of Discoveries.

These are questions and exercises to help you remember and apply what you have learned from the biblical text.

Discoveries have been designed to meet all learning styles. We learn by seeing, by hearing, and by doing. There are questions to discuss, exercises to write down, correlation between various biblical texts to make, and activities to do. They are provided to create the most effective learning experience for you.

viii

We will use specific tools to discover the truth and significance of each passage. In most cases, the following elements will be the tools of our trade: •

A structural analysis chart of the text. This tool will help us ask and answer the question, how is the text arranged? We will focus on how the author structured the biblical text under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The arrangement of the unit we are studying is fundamental to discover the author’s thought and purpose. It will help us to discern patterns, contrasts, emphases, progressions, conflicts, and arguments.

•

An explanation of what the passage says. Here we will ask several different questions pertaining to our particular text. We will begin by asking, what are the key terms? We will examine key terms and phrases, identifying those elements in the passage which contribute most significantly to its meaning and message.

We will then consider the question, what is the explanation?

Field Notes

How does this book work?

Introduction

Within this section, we may ask a question like, what about the culture? where we will consider cultural issues that enlighten us on the original audience of the text. If necessary we will ask, what about the geography? or what about the history? The Christian faith is a historical faith and therefore bound to time and space. Images, ideas, and cultural practices are all bound to a geo-location which reveal to us the richness of the treasure that lies beneath the sand.

•

A historical contextual summary of the significance of the text. After using all of these tools, we are finally ready to take the treasures we discovered and summarize them. In this section, we answer the question, what is God saying? Our response will present a brief summary of our findings and conclusions.

Many times, this section will also provide us with other biblical examples that further help our understanding and reinforce the lessons we have learned.

•

A summary of the practical implications of the discoveries of our excavation. We finish every excavation answering the question, what does God want? The purpose of these Field Notes is to encourage explorers to grow in their faith and live by it.

Such faith is not alive unless the treasures we excavate become realities in our daily lives. We will provide for you some of the major principles discovered, along with particular suggestions for practical application. These suggestions are aids which will help you explore additional implications that may apply more significantly to your particular life story.

Step three: Analyze the find Once you have completed digging through the biblical text, it is time to put down your tools and analyze what you have found. The Bible is God’s revelation to humanity and is one grand story of his love for us.

It is important that we analyze each book of the Bible in light of the rest of Scripture. Here is what you need to consider: •

The place of this book within the biblical story. Here we answer the question, what does this book of the Bible contribute to the entire story of Scripture? God wants us to learn about his nature and his character, and each book of the Bible contributes to this understanding. This is why all of God’s Word is valuable. It teaches us how he passionately pursues us.

ix

H How does this book work?

Introduction

SAMPLE PAGES This is the sidebar containing optional information to compliment and explain content from the main section.

This is the title bar showing the title, key theme, and the Field Study number.

S

Survey the Land

Obadiah

Field study 1

A family conflict became a long war of nations

What is the background to our story?

Nabateans The Nabateans were an ancient Semitic people who took over the land of the Edomites. They settled and built the city of Petra beginning in the 4th century B.C. and resided there during the four hundred years between the times of the Old and New Testaments.

The prophecy of Obadiah begins in the geographical area known today as Petra, meaning rock, within modern day Jordan. The Nabateans carved their rock buildings at Petra over 100 years before Christ. This was the land of ancient Edom before the ruin announced by Obadiah came upon them. God’s curse fell upon the Edomites because of the way they treated Israel. Yes, those were times of constant war among the nations, but Edom and Israel were not merely neighbors.

They descended from the same family; in fact, from brothers—twin brothers! God’s anger came upon Edom because Edom did not help his brother in the day Israel was attacked by a foreign power. On the contrary, as Obadiah will reveal, Edom sarcastically celebrated the enslavement of Israel. Would you like to have a brother like that?

Todd Bolen, www.BiblePlaces.com

1800

1.

Genesis 25:19–34 1600

1400

1200

The exodus from Egypt 1446 Build tabernacle Israel enters the Promised Land 1406 1350

2006 Birth of Esau and Jacob

The biblical text is always shown on an ancient scroll.

This is the main section of the page and contains all of the essential information.

Survey the Land

Obadiah

Field study 1

Numbers 20:14–21

A family conflict became a long war of nations

Timeline of Isaac’s Family

Date

Age in years

2006

1850 Life of Jacob

References in Genesis

B.C.

Event

1898

Jacob's son Joseph sold into slavery

Jacob, 108

37:12–36

1886

Isaac dies

Isaac, 180 Jacob, 120

35:28–29; 25:26

1876

Jacob's family moves to Egypt

Jacob, 130

46–47; 47:9–28

1859

Jacob dies

Jacob, 147

47:28

If we fast-forward our story, the book of Exodus tells us that 450 years after Jacob and Esau, the Israelites are living as slaves in Egypt. God sent Moses to deliver Israel from slavery and lead them on an exodus, a journey out of slavery, into the Promised Land. The fastest roadway between Egypt and the Promised Land was called the King’s Way. It crossed right through Seir, the land of Edom. Even Moses pleads with Israel

Abel-shittim Mount Zion

Mediterranean Sea

Jerusalem

Medeba

Dead Sea

JUDAH

Jahaz Highwa y

Hebron

The King’s

Beersheba

NEGEV

MOAB

EDOM

Mount Esau

Sela Punon

OF

SAL

T

Kadesh-barnea

Teman?

VAL

LEY

Petra

The solid line is the route traveled.

The dotted line is the route they wanted to travel if the Edomites would have let them through.

Elath

Moses leads the people toward the Promised Land The solid line from Kadesh-barnea to Punon represents the route that the Israelites may have been traveling. When the Edomites refused access to the King’s Highway, Israel was forced south to get around Edom.

B.C. 2000

1050

Timeline showing key events.

Note the use of pictures, maps, illustrations, and tables.

Moses sent messengers from Kadesh to the king of Edom: “This is what your brother Israel says: You know all the hardships that have experienced. How our ancestors went down into Egypt, and we lived there a long time.

The Egyptians treated us and our fathers harshly, but when we cried out to the LORD, he heard our voice, and sent a messenger and brought us out of Egypt. Now we are here at Kadesh, a city on the edge of your territory. Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through any field or vineyard, or even drink water from a well. We will travel along the king’s highway and not go to the right or the left until we have passed through your territory.”

But Edom said to him, “You will not pass through here, or we will come out and attack you with the sword.” The Israelites said to him, “We will go along the main highway, and if we or our cattle drink any of your water, we will pay for it. We only want to pass through on foot, nothing more.”

But he said, “You may not pass through.” Then Edom came out against them with a large and powerful army. So Edom refused to allow them to pass through their territory, so Israel turned away from them.

1000 1193 Greeks destroy Troy

Time of the judges

1.

See also Deuteronomy 2:1–6 1700

1859

1550

Moses instructs the nation of Israel as he leads them towards the Promised Land.

several centuries later, the bitterness of Esau against Jacob was still present in their descendants.

The book of Numbers1 describes how Moses requested permission from the king of Edom to pass through his land. Moses assured the king that the Israelites would not depart from the main road and even offered to pay for the water they might use. The Edomites refused; they still remembered how Jacob stole the blessing of 1400

1526–1406 Life of Moses 1446–1406 The exodus

4

Footnotes are always used for biblical references.

x

•

The relationship of this book to Christ. The pinnacle of God’s Word is the coming of his Son Jesus, who saves people from their sin. This is the gospel, the good news of Scripture. Our question here is, how does this book point to the coming of Christ?

When using these Field Notes, please keep in mind the following principles:

Providence Lithograph Company, 1907

Genesis 25:27–34 B.C. 2000

hen the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the field, but Jacob was a peaceful man, dwelling in tents. Isaac loved Esau because he had a taste for wild game, but Rebekah loved Jacob. Once when Jacob was cooking stew, Esau came in from the fields and he was famished. And Esau said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am starving!” (That is why he was also called Edom.) But Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” Esau said, “Look, I am about to die; what good is a birthright to me?” But Jacob said, “Swear to me first”; so he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew; Esau ate and drank, then got up and went on his way. So Esau despised his birthright.

2

The culmination of the story. Finally, we answer the question, how does the story end? This helps us to understand each book of the Bible in light of the grand narrative.

Our Field Notes have been purposefully designed to enable you the explorer, to learn and apply more effectively the lessons of each passage you excavate. We strongly encourage you to invest some time in understanding the functionality of the design. This will greatly help your study and will make it more rewarding and enjoyable.

God told Rebekah before the twins were born that the oldest son, Esau, would serve Jacob, the youngest. This was contrary to tradition.

The fulfillment of this prophecy began when, as young adults, Esau sold his birthright to Jacob in exchange for a cup of red soup. Take a look:

The Treasury at Petra

•

Understanding the design

The quarrelsome story of these twins begins in Genesis chapter 25.1 Here the Bible explains that Jacob and Esau were born to Rebekah after a period of almost 20 years during which she could not have children. After Isaac prayed for his wife, Rebekah was finally able to conceive. She was pregnant with twins. Their father Isaac was 60 years old!

This treasury at Petra was created by the Nabataeans in the land that once belonged to the Edomites. Notice how red the rock is.

Field Notes

1250

• The notes are designed to provide as much relevant information as possible in an efficient way. You may not be able to study everything in one sitting, but you can know there is a wealth of information available for you in a single place. Come back to the study as often as you like and learn something new.

• Feel free to focus your attention in any of the different sections of the page and/or the sections of Field Notes as a whole. Everyone learns differently. Learn and apply that which best suits your learning style and your particular needs and interests, but challenge yourself to try something new.

• The main column of each page provides you with the essential content of the lesson. If you have limited time, we encourage you to focus your attention there. The items in the side margins are complementary to the main text and can be skipped if the material is already known.

• Blank spaces are provided in the margins. Use them to record your thoughts, observations, and questions. Make your own notes from the field.

Field Notes

How does this book work?

The art of active learning There are several things that you can do to help yourself learn new material. This is especially true with the Bible, so we have outlined five basic steps to help you engage in the learning process.

1. Come prepared. Begin by asking God for wisdom, humility, and dependence on the Holy Spirit to guide you to all truth. Pray, “Open my eyes that I might see the wonderful things in your law” from Psalm 119:18. Read with a pen or pencil in hand for marking the text or taking notes. Read aloud at times. This will help you engage your eyes, ears, and voice in the reading process.

2. Preview the text. Regardless of what you are going to read, quickly previewing the text will prepare your mind for what you are going to encounter. Look for a basic outline of the thought, the structure, and the key terms and concepts.

3. Mark the text. Use intentional, deliberate markings that fit your learning style. This will help you engage your mind in what you are reading and activate your memory. Here are some suggestions: • Identify lists of related ideas or topics. Itemize the list in the margin. Galatians 5:16–17 is a good example of a listing text.

• Mark key words and phrases. The questions you ask from the text will guide you to key words or phrases. Repetition and contrast also point out key elements of the text.

• Identify relationships. Mark logical relationships like therefore, so that, or in order to. Mark temporal relationships such as before, after, the next day, or immediately. Notate contrasts like but or however, and correlations like if-then or either-or. Also highlight conjunctions such as and or or as well as purpose statements like for this reason.

4. Make notes. Constantly summarize your ideas, write questions, repeat key words, use colors and symbols, and note references.

Use your pen or pencil as a pointer so you will not lose your place. Find as many answers as possible to the six basic questions that unlock the content and meaning of a text: who, what, when, where, why, and how. Describe your thoughts completely, but be concise.

5. Summarize, paraphrase, or outline the text. Write a paragraph, sentence, or phrase to summarize what you have read in your own words. Reread the passage, paying attention to your markings and notes in the text so you will remember what you have read.

Introduction

Colors and Symbols Use a consistent color and/or symbol code that works for you.

• Color parts of speech—Use colors for nouns, pronouns, verbs and prepositions.

• Color themes—Use colors for key themes like God, faith, love or sin.

• Color relationships—Use colors for temporal or logical words like before, therefore, so that, or if-then.

• Use Symbols—Mark important concepts or characters with icons: God – triangle Love – heart Jesus – cross Repentance – U-turn Law – tablets • Use arrows—indicate logical or temporal relationships.

Mix colors and symbols as needed but keep it simple and consistent.

Asking Questions Who—is talking, is being spoken to, is acting, is obeying, is disobeying, is thinking, and is feeling?

What—is happening, is the lesson, must you avoid or imitate, is being said, is not said, did the person do, does the subject feel or think?

When—did this happen, will this happen?

Where—did it happen, is it happening, will it happen?

Why—did things happen, was something said or not said, was an action taken or avoided?

How—did things happen, will they happen, is the teaching illustrated, are conflicts caused or resolved?

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Law

Old Testament Scrolls

History

Poetry

Major

Prophets

Minor

Prophets

xii

New Testament Scrolls

Gospels

History

Paul’s

Letters

General Letters

Prophecy

xiii

H How does this book work?

Field Notes

Introduction

The Land of Obadiah

Dan

While we are not sure of the exact date that Obadiah was written, this map depicts the time period of the divided kingdom in general and the setting of Obadiah.

BASHAN

Sea of Galilee

GILEAD Mediterranean Sea Jordan River

Ramoth-gilead

Samaria

ISRAEL

IL

Dead S

ea

PH

Hebron

The King’s High way

Mount Zion

Jerusalem

IS

TI

A

AMMON

JUDAH Beersheba

MOAB

NEGEV Mount Esau

SAL

T

Sela

VAL

LEY

OF

Kadesh-barnea

xiv

Petra

Teman?

EDOM

Survey the Land Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations Field study 1

Introduction

Ancient Discovery Be sure to read the introductory section, “How does this book work?” before proceeding with this study.

Field study 1

__________________________________________

Why should we study Obadiah?

Let us now begin the survey of this ancient land. A land full of powerful emotions: arrogance, betrayal, murder, revenge. All these elements make up intriguing fiction, but these are also the themes addressed by the prophet Obadiah. His small Old Testament book contains a dreadful prophecy against Edom, a nation once located at the southeast border of Israel. This message of doom was announced against Edom because of its hostility towards Israel, God’s chosen nation.

Mediterranean Sea

Israel

Pyramids of Egypt 2166 completed

2100

h P

Edom

Israel, Judah and Edom Many of the conflicts that Israel and Judah had with Edom occurred in the land of southern Judah.

Geneology of Abraham Hagar

1916

The life of Isaac 2006

Sarah

Isaac

Rebekah

Esau

Jacob

1900

1991

2066

Abraham

Ishmael

2000 The life of Abraham

Moab

Judah

In order to understand the message of the prophet Obadiah, and therefore its relationship to the gospel of Jesus Christ, we must first be aware of the family-feud involving Israel and Edom. The story begins at the book of all beginnings, Genesis. It involved the birth of two brothers, the twins Esau and Jacob, born to Isaac and Rebekah around 2000 B.C. This was a fulfillment, through Isaac, of the promise to build a great nation. God had originally made this promise or covenant to Isaac’s father Abraham in Genesis 12.

2200

Dead

il

As a prophet of Almighty God, Obadiah’s job was to make the invisible God audible. Like all of the other prophets, Obadiah interprets the nation of Israel’s history and shows how God is faithful to keep his covenantal promises to his people. Amongst the twelve minor or shorter-writing prophets, Joel, Amos, and Obadiah share similar themes and are therefore grouped together in our Bibles. Obadiah reinforces the timeless message of God’s sovereignty over all of the nations of the world and the fact that God always keeps his promises.

Sea

is

ti

a

Ammon

The life of Jacob

The life of Joseph 1886 1859

1800

B.C.

1806

1

S

Survey the Land

Field study 1

Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

What is the background to our story?

Nabateans The Nabateans were an ancient Semitic people who took over the land of the Edomites. They settled and built the city of Petra beginning in the 4th century B.C. and resided there during the four hundred years between the times of the Old and New Testaments.

The prophecy of Obadiah begins in the geographical area known today as Petra, meaning rock, within modern day Jordan. The Nabateans carved their rock buildings at Petra over 100 years before Christ. This was the land of ancient Edom before the ruin announced by Obadiah came upon them. God’s curse fell upon the Edomites because of the way they treated Israel. Those were times of constant war among the nations, but Edom and Israel were not merely neighbors. They descended from the same family; in fact, from brothers—twin brothers! God’s anger came upon Edom because Edom did not help his brother in the day Israel was attacked by a foreign power. On the contrary, as Obadiah will reveal, Edom sarcastically celebrated the enslavement of Israel. Would you like to have a brother like that?

Todd Bolen, www.BiblePlaces.com

The quarrelsome story of these twins begins in Genesis chapter 25.1 Here the Bible explains that Jacob and Esau were born to Rebekah after a period of almost 20 years during which she could not have children. After Isaac prayed for his wife, Rebekah was finally able to conceive. She was pregnant with twins. Their father Isaac was 60 years old!

The Treasury at Petra This treasury at Petra was created by the Nabataeans in the land that once belonged to the Edomites.

Notice how red the rock is.

God told Rebekah before the twins were born that the oldest son, Esau, would serve Jacob, the youngest. This was contrary to tradition.

The fulfillment of this prophecy began when, as young adults, Esau sold his birthright to Jacob in exchange for a cup of red soup. Take a look:

Wfield, but Jacob was a peaceful man, dwelling in tents. Isaac loved

hen the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the Genesis 25:27–34

Esau because he had a taste for wild game, but Rebekah loved Jacob. Once when Jacob was cooking stew, Esau came in from the fields and he was famished. And Esau said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am starving!” (That is why he was also called Edom.) But Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” Esau said, “Look, I am about to die; what good is a birthright to me?” But Jacob said, “Swear to me first”; so he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew; Esau ate and drank, then got up and went on his way. So Esau despised his birthright.

As you can see, the Bible explains the reason Esau became known as Edom, which means red. Later on, Jacob deceived his father Isaac and gained from him the blessing meant for Esau, the oldest. Esau was so B.C. 2000 2006 Birth of Esau and Jacob

2

1800

1.

Genesis 25:19–34 1600

1400

1200

The exodus from Egypt?

1193 Greeks destroy Troy Build tabernacle Israel enters the Promised Land 1406 1350 Time of the judges 1050 1446

1000

Survey the Land

Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

Field study 1

angry that he promised to kill Jacob after their father died. Jacob was forced to run away and did not return for 20 years. Esau never forgot Jacob’s deception for his blessing. What would you have done?

Date

Timeline of Isaac’s Family

Govert Flinck, 1638

You can find the next episode of this story in Genesis chapters 32 and 36. Esau and his family moved to the land of Seir where they became known as Edomites. At this time, God also changed Jacob’s name and called him Israel. So the descendants of Jacob became known as Israelites.2 Therefore, Jacob and Esau are Israel and Edom respectively. Follow the timeline of Isaac’s family:

Isaac blessing Jacob This painting is one artist’s depiction of Jacob’s deception of Esau’s blessing.

References in Genesis

B.C.

Event

Age in years

2066

Isaac born to Abraham

Abraham, 100 21:5

2026

Isaac marries Rebekah

Isaac, 40

25:20

2006

Jacob and Esau are born to Isaac

Isaac, 60

25:26

1991

Abraham dies

Abraham, 175 25:7 Isaac, 75 Jacob, 15

1929

Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of lentil stew

25:29–34

Famine in the land. Isaac goes to Gerar and lies about Rebekah

26

Isaac blesses Jacob and Esau

Isaac, 137 Jacob, 77

27:1–40

1929

Esau promises to kill Jacob

Jacob, 77

27:41–46

1929

Jacob goes to Paddan-aram

Jacob, 77

28:1–5

Esau marries an Ishmaelite

28:6–9

1929

Jacob's dream

Jacob, 77

28:10–22

1922

Jacob marries Leah and Rachel

Jacob, 84

29–30

1909

Jacob flees from Laban

Jacob, 97

31

1898

Jacob's son Joseph sold into slavery

Jacob, 108

37:12–36

1886

Isaac dies

Isaac, 180 Jacob, 120

35:28–29; 25:26

2. Genesis 32:22–32 1000 B.C.

800

1010 King David’s reign 853 Obadiah?

Mayan civilization 960 Solomon completes temple 930 Division of the kingdom begins in Mexico

600

400

Birthright During biblical times, the birthright constituted the right or privileges that belonged to the firstborn son in a Hebrew family. It included the honor of inheriting the leadership of the family as well as an inheritance that was twice the amount received by every other son. In the case of Jacob and Esau, this included the privilege of being the vehicle of God’s promised blessing given to Abraham for all.

200

586 Obadiah?

356–323 Reign of Alexander the Great 722 Northern kingdom falls to Assyrians Herod made governor of Judah 37 586 Southern kingdom goes into Babylonian exile

1 A.D. 4 Birth of Christ

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B.C. 2000 2006

4

1850 Life of Jacob

1859

References in Genesis

B.C.

Event

Age in years

1876

Jacob's family moves to Egypt

Jacob, 130

46–47; 47:9–28

1859

Jacob dies

Jacob, 147

47:28

Providence Lithograph Company, 1907

If we fast-forward our story, the book of Exodus tells us that 450 years after Jacob and Esau, the Israelites were living as slaves in Egypt.

God sent Moses to deliver Israel from slavery and lead them on an exodus, a journey out of slavery, into the Promised Land. The fastest roadway between Egypt and the Promised Land was called the King’s Way. It crossed through Seir, the land of Edom. Even several centuries later, the bitterness of Esau against Jacob was still present in their descendants. The book of Numbers1 describes how Moses requested Abel-shittim Mount Zion

Mediterranean Sea

Jerusalem

Medeba

Dead Se

a

JUDAH Hebron

Jahaz The King ’s High way

Moses sent messengers from Kadesh to the king of Edom: “This is what your brother Israel says: You know all the hardships that we have experienced. How our ancestors went down into Egypt, and we lived there a long time.

The Egyptians treated us and our fathers harshly, but when we cried out to the LORD, he heard our voice, and sent a messenger and brought us out of Egypt. Now we are here at Kadesh, a city on the edge of your territory. Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through any field or vineyard, or even drink water from a well. We will travel along the king’s highway and not go to the right or the left until we have passed through your territory.”

But Edom said to him, “You will not pass through here, or we will come out and attack you with the sword.” The Israelites said to him, “We will go along the main highway, and if we or our cattle drink any of your water, we will pay for it. We only want to pass through on foot, nothing more.”

But he said, “You may not pass through.” Then Edom came out against them with a large and powerful army. So Edom refused to allow them to pass through their territory, so Israel turned away from them.

Timeline of Isaac’s Family

Date

Beersheba

Moses pleads with Israel Moses instructs the nation of Israel as he leads them towards the Promised Land.

MOAB

permission from the king of Edom to pass through NEGEV EDOM his land. Moses assured the king that the Israelites would not depart from the main road and even The solid line is the route traveled. offered to pay for the The dotted line is the route they wanted to travel if the Edomites water they might use. The would have let them through.

Edomites refused; they still remembered how Jacob stole the blessing of Isaac from Esau. The fire of Moses leads the people toward the Promised Land this family feud had been The solid line from Kadesh-barnea to Punon represents the route lit almost 500 years ago. that the Israelites may have been traveling. When the Edomites Now against the command refused access to the King’s Highway, Israel was forced south to get 2 of God it was rekindled. around Edom.

Mount Esau

Sela

Punon

Kadesh-barnea

VAL L V AEL D E L LEY A S OF AL SAL T

Numbers 20:14–21

Teman?

Petra

Elath

1. See also Deuteronomy 2:1–6 2. Deuteronomy 23:7 1700

1550

1400 1526–1406 Life of Moses 1446–1406 The exodus?

1250

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So the Israelites had no choice but to walk the long way around. This struggle continued throughout the period of the kings.

Observe the following table:

Bible passage

Conflict Between Israel and Edom King

Date

Event

The United Kingdom of Israel 1 Samuel 14:47–48

King Saul

2 Samuel 8:14 King David 1 Kings 11:15–17 1 Chronicles 18:12–13 Psalm 60

1 Kings 9.26–28 1 Kings 11:1 2 Chronicles 8:17

King Solomon

1050– 1010 B.C.

King Saul fought against the Edomites and drove them back.

1010– 970 B.C.

King David defeated 18,000 Edomites and enslaved them. David’s commander Joab killed 12,000 Edomites.

The Edomite king’s young son, Hadad, escaped with some officials to Egypt. Later Hadad returned to Edom as a grown man and was a constant source of trouble to Israel.

970–930

King Solomon established a navy on the Red Sea, in the Edomite port of Elath. He disobeyed God by marrying foreign women included Edomite women. They worshiped other gods and turned his heart away from the Lord God of Israel.

B.C.

The Divided Kingdom of Israel (north) and Judah (south) 1 Kings 12:1–33 2 Chronicles 10:1–19

King Rehoboam

2 Kings 3:4–27 2 Chronicles 20:1–30

King 873-848 Jehoshaphat B.C.

Jehoshaphat (southern king) allied with King Jehoram (northern king) and the king of Edom to fight against Moab. Later, Moab, Ammon and Edom allied to attack the southern kingdom but God delivered them.

2 Kings 8:20–22

King Jehoram

849 B.C.

Edom revolted and the southern kingdom lost control of the Edomites.

796–767 B.C.

King Amaziah (southern kingdom) attacked the Edomites and killed 10,000 soldiers in the Valley of Salt.

He renamed Sela, Joktheel.

783–740

King Azariah recaptured the Edomite port of Elath.

2 Kings 14:7 King 2 Chronicles 25:14–20 Amaziah 2 Kings 14:22

King Azariah

930–913 B.C.

Israel divided under Rehoboam and the south maintained control of Edom.

B.C.

2 Kings 16:6 King Ahaz 2 Chronicles 28:16–18

1250

735–716 B.C.

1100 King Saul’s reign 1050–1010 King David’s reign 1010–970 King Solomon’s reign 970–930

950

Edom fought back during the reign of King Ahaz (southern king), and recovered the city of Elath. King Ahaz appealed to the northern nation of Assyria and asked for help. Assyria responded by demanding tribute from Edom and by forcing the Edomites to become a vassal state of the Assyrian Empire.

800

650

500 B.C.

930–913 King Rehoboam’s reign 796–767 King Amaziah’s reign 873–848 King Jehoshaphat’s reign 783–740 King Azariah’s reign 853–841 King Jehoram’s reign 735–716 King Ahaz’s reign

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Prophecies About Edom Text

Judgment on Edom

Isaiah 11:14

Will be plundered and subdued by Israel

Isaiah 21:11–12

Will suffer prolonged darkness and trouble

Jeremiah 25:21

Will drink from the cup of wrath of God

Jeremiah 49:7–22

Will be completely destroyed, it will become perpetual waste, It will be despised among the nations.

Lamentations 4:21 Will drink the cup of wrath and suffer confusion and shame.

Ezekiel 25:12–14

All men and beasts will be cut off. It will become desolate.

Ezekiel 35

Will become a waste. It will be desolate

Joel 3:19

Will become a desolate wilderness

Amos 1:11–12

Will be set on fire and devoured

Obadiah

Will be completely destroyed and set on fire.

Malachi 1:2–5

Will never be rebuilt or restored again after its judgment

Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations Many of the prophets of Israel proclaimed messages against Edom. The prophet Amos1 accused the Edomites of hostility against their own brother. In the same way, the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Joel, and Obadiah spoke against the sinful atrocities of Edom.

In the Psalms, the writer demands that the Lord remember how Edom sought Israel’s destruction.2 The condemning prophecy of Obadiah was spoken out of this context of a long history of hate, bitterness, and war between Israel and Edom. The family feud that began with two brothers in 2000 B.C. became an international battle for between 1200 to 1500 years.

Who wrote this prophecy?

Other than his name, we do not know much about the prophet Obadiah. He does not tell us where he is from, or anything about his family. There are several other people named

B.C. 1000

950

1050–1010 King Saul’s reign

6

1010–970 King David’s reign 970–930 King Solomon’s reign

1. Amos 1:11–12 2. Psalm 137:7 900

Iconostasis of Transfiguration church, Kizhi monastery, Karelia, north Russia, 18th Century

Obadiah in the Old Testament, but there is no convincing evidence that proves any of them wrote this prophecy. In the Bible, the meaning of one’s name is usually significant to the setting of the story. The name Obadiah means “servant of Yahweh” or “worshipper of Yahweh.” Just like Jesus, Obadiah’s name should

The Prophet Obadiah This Russian icon of the prophet Obadiah represents an Eastern tradition of creating images of the prophets of God. 850 800 870–845 Elijah

835 Joel?

845–800 Elisha 853 Obadiah?

760

750 Isaiah

765–754 Amos 781 Jonah?

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remind us of his humble status as a servant of God bringing hope to his people and judgment to his enemies. God decided that Obadiah’s name was all we needed to know to understand his message.

When did this happen?

Although we are missing details about Obadiah’s life and his historical context, from Obadiah verses 10 through 14, we know his prophecy occurred immediately after a major attack on Jerusalem. Bible experts agree that it is impossible to determine exactly which of the several attacks suffered by Jerusalem is the one to which Obadiah refers. However, if one were to study the historical and archeological evidence relating to Edom, several dates are good possibilities.

Rembrandt, 1630

Of all the options, two are the most probable. The first option is 853–841 B.C. during the reign of King Jehoram of Judah. The second is around 587–586 B.C. during the reign of King Zedekiah. Both periods have evidence for and against them. Even though it is not possible to pinpoint exactly when the book was written, it does not affect the message Obadiah proclaimed.

Jeremiah Lamenting This is Rembrandt van Rijn’s version of the prophet Jeremiah weeping over the destruction of Jerusalem.

Depending on when Obadiah was written, it is possible that Jeremiah and Obadiah were contemporaries.

What was going on at the time?

The history of the family of Jacob and Esau provides plenty of information on the background of Obadiah. However, if you ask the question, “What specific events in history provoked the proclamation of this prophecy?” the answer does not come so easily. The two most probable dates for its writing give two options. As a first option, it is possible that the prophecy was announced after the Arabs attacked Jerusalem during the reign of King Jehoram of Judah—around 853 B.C. According to the Bible, this attack occurred shortly after the Edomites rebelled against Israel.3 Jehoram was an evil king.4 He promoted idolatry Mediterranean Sea in Judah by encouraging the nation to worship Baal, the false god of the Canaanites.5 The prophet Elijah even wrote him a letter denouncing his sin.6 I S R A E AL M M O N Therefore, this attack was probably an act of divine MOAB JUDAH discipline due to Judah’s disobedience.

EDOM The second possibility is found in the fall of 3.

4.

5.

6.

700

2 Chronicles 21:8–17 2 Kings 8:18 2 Chronicles 18:11–13 2 Chronicles 21:12–15

Isaiah 732–722 Hosea

673

B

A

B

Y

L O

N

I A

N

E M

P

I R

E

Babylon

The Babylonian Empire 650

600 640–626 Zephaniah

606

This map shows the size of the vast Babylonian Empire while Judah was in exile for 70 years.

Babylon ruled over all of Israel, Judah, Edom and surrounding areas.

550 500 450 B.C. Babylonian exile

658–615 Nahum 620–570 Ezekiel 586 Obadiah?

650–582 Jeremiah 608–598 Habakkuk

536

520 Haggai 522–509 Zechariah

465 Malachi Joel? 450

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Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

Jerusalem to King Nebuchadnezzar of the Babylonian Empire in the year 586 B.C. This event is described in detail in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles.1 Before this time, Judah had gone through several periods of obedience and disobedience toward God. King Manasseh of Judah (696–642 B.C.) was so evil that God promised that Judah would go into exile.2 The spiritual reforms of King Josiah (640–609 B.C.) delayed judgment. However, after Josiah’s death, the nation quickly returned to its evil ways. God disciplines his people when they rebel!

Todd Bolen, www.bibleplaces.com

In either case, Obadiah describes the attitude of Israel’s brother Edom after the attack of Jerusalem, and God was clearly not pleased with their behavior.

Sela from the East This picture shows the rugged terrain that the Edomites called home. It is easy to understand how they felt invincible from their mountains.

850 800 B.C. 870–845 Elijah 845

8

Elisha 835 Joel?

853 Obadiah?

1.

2.

2 Kings 23:31–25:30; 2 Chronicles 36.

2 Kings 21:10–15; 2 Kings 24:1–4 750

800

760 781 Jonah?

700 Isaiah 732–722 Hosea

765–754 Amos

650 673

658–615 Nahum

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Who was the audience?

It is important to understand that although the prophecy of Obadiah speaks of the Edomites, his message was not intended for them. Obadiah was in fact speaking to Israelites from the southern kingdom of Judah. You can see this in Obadiah verses 11, 12, 17, 20, and 21. Therefore, Obadiah’s message is written about Edom as an encouragement to Judah. God’s people could find consolation in the future judgment of Edom.

Obadiah also promises that, even after their disobedience, God would certainly restore Israel as a nation and would bless them again.

While the message is to the people of Judah, it is most certainly about the Edomites. During the days of Obadiah, Edom was also known as Seir. It was located south of the Dead Sea, in an area of highlands and sandstone cliffs provided a natural protection from invaders. Important and profitable commercial routes crossed the area. The capital was the city of Sela. This city was just a short distance from present day Petra.

As you will see as we continue, the geographic features of the land of Edom are very relevant to understanding the message of this book.

How should we read this type of book?

Guidelines for prophecy

It is very important to remember that prophetic literature is highly symbolic. This is because the prophet seeks to explain future events, most likely from a very different cultural setting, using objects from his own present world and culture, objects like tools, clothing, animals and the like. Therefore, in prophetic texts, real objects often become symbols that describe a future reality not yet known or fully understood.

1 Context: Consider the historical and cultural context of the message to properly understand the prophecy. Identify the historical setting, the chronology of recent event and even the perspective from which the prophet is writing.

2 Symbolism: Prophetic literature is frequently symbolic.

Sometimes is presented in the form of dreams with symbols that transcend reality. These symbols must be understood in order to grasp the message of the prophet.

3 Writing Style: Pay close attention to the writing style employed by the prophet. Identify figures of speech, illustrations, poetry, historic narratives, and allegories. Read the text according to the rules that apply to the particular style being used.

4 Comparison: Compare the message of the prophets to other passages of Scripture that deal with the same subject. When available, pay special attention to any interpretations of Old Testament prophecies found in the New Testament. This will be very helpful to understand the correct meaning of the text.

5 Christ-Centered: The Prophets often speak messages from God that ultimately find their fulfillment in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Remember that some prophecies are yet to be fulfilled by Christ and in Christ.

To understand properly the message of a book, one must read it according to the rules and guidelines of the type of literature to which it belongs. The book of Obadiah is written according to the literary style known as oracle, vision, or prophecy. The first verse of the book describes its message as a vision. This type of literature was used to pronounce oracles of either blessing or doom. The oracle served to announce judgment, encourage repentance, and provide hope and consolation.

Key idea Obadiah was speaking to Israelites, not Edomites. His message regarding Edom’s judgment is a message of hope to the people of God.

Obadiah can be considered a national oracle that provided comfort to the people of God by reminding them of God’s righteous judgment upon Edom’s sin.

650

600

650–582 Jeremiah Zephaniah 640–626 Daniel 620–540

606 620–570 Ezekiel

550 Babylonian exile 586 Obadiah?

608–598 Habakkuk

536

500

450

522–509 Zechariah

465 Malachi

520 Haggai

Joel? 450

B.C.

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Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

Why did God give us this message?

Obadiah gave this message to the people of Judah to announce the coming judgment of Edom because of its pride and violence against them. The Lord God confirmed his faithfulness to the promise made to Abraham a millennium before. He would curse those who cursed his people.1 Obadiah’s message was given to provide comfort and hope to Israel in light of God’s plans for them. Ultimately, Obadiah provides hope in God’s wisdom and power in the person and work of Christ.

God’s prophetic word will ultimately be fulfilled in Jesus and his righteous rule over all nations.

Todd Bolen, www.bibleplaces.com

Carefully study this book so that you may become aware of the dangers of pride. Acknowledge God’s bold attitude towards prideful people, and of his desire to provide comfort and consolation through the message of the gospel of Christ to those who trust in him, even in the midst of injustice, betrayal, suffering, and sin.

Modern day Petra The descendents of Esau lived nestled in this rocky land.

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1.

Genesis 12:3

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Discoveries

Field study 1 Notes, Observations & Questions

__________________________________________

Now that you have completed the survey of the background to the book of Obadiah, it’s time to put down your tools and see what you have discovered. This section is designed to help you wrestle with the implications of the text and embed the newly learned information in your mind. Find the questions that suit your group best.

Connecting with the community These discussion questions help you understand the meaning of the text. Do not merely think of them as questions for you as an individual, but rather think each of them in terms of you, your family, your community, your nation and your church.

1. Why is it important to understand all of the background to Obadiah before reading the actual text?

2. How would you characterize the relationship between Israel and Edom through the Old Testament? What events seemed significant?

3. Could you describe the difference between a family argument and a family feud? Have you ever been a part of a family feud or known someone who has? If so, how do you feel about such situations?

4. In learning about the story of Jacob and Esau, what aspects of the story make you uncomfortable? Do you identify with either Jacob or Esau? Do you empathize for either of them?

5. How common do you consider a quarrel like that of Jacob and Esau is among brothers? Can you think of other examples in history where nations or people groups from the same family tree have quarreled?

6. Explain the historical relationship between the two brothers, Jacob and Esau, and the two nations, Israel and Edom.

For more information about how to use our Discoveries section go to www.SacraScript.org

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Field study 1 Notes, Observations & Questions

7. Review the timeline for this lesson. How long was the quarrel between Israel and Edom? What comments or questions arise in your mind when you consider the length of time involved?

8. God chose Isaac rather than Ishmael, Jacob rather than Esau and would eventually choose Jacob’s son Joseph over his ten older brothers. Why do you think God so often did not follow the cultural tradition of blessing the oldest child?

9. Prayerfully meditate on the words of Psalm 137. What attitude and emotions do you perceive in the psalmist’s prayer? Is such a prayer adequate? What does the psalmist want from God? 10. In Old Testament times, the names of places and people often carried significance to their message. Does the meaning of the name Obadiah relates in any way to his prophecy? How? 11. To whom did Obadiah originally write his message and why is that important? What was Obadiah’s purpose?

12. Why is the historical reliability of the Bible important to our story? Does the historical background impact the validity of Obadiah’s prophecy?

13. On a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 representing a little and 10 representing a lot, rate your own knowledge of the book of Obadiah. At the end of field study 5 on page 80 you will have another opportunity to evaluate your knowledge in light of what you have learned.

1 2 a little

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 a lot

Probing deeper These exercises continue the study of the issues of Obadiah. They include tracing themes from Obadiah throughout the rest of Scripture.

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Obadiah

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Biblical prophecies about Edom: Included in this first field study on page 6 is a chart listing various biblical prophecies about Edom. Read each one of these passages and then consider the following questions: 1. What is the message God communicated through his prophets about Edom? Why? 2. Who were these messages for? Israel? Edom? Why? 3. If God promised judgment through his prophets on many different occasions, why did he not just deliver judgment? Why did God give so many warnings? What can we learn from that?

4. What do these prophecies about other nations teach us about the character of God? What nations is God concerned about today?

5. Why is it often difficult to study ancient prophecy? Why is it important that we study the prophets of the Bible?

Bringing the story to life Learning the biblical geography helps us to understand the context of the Bible. Locate each of the following features on the map and label them. See the map on page xiv at the beginning of your Field Notes for help.

• • • • • •

Countries: Israel, Judah, Edom, Moab, Ammon, Philistia Capitals: Samaria, Jerusalem, Sela Mountains: Mount Zion, Mount Esau Cities: Hebron, Beersheba, Kadesh-barnea, Petra, Teman, Ramoth-gilead Water: Mediterranean Sea, Dead Sea, Sea of Galilee Roads: The King’s Highway

Learning Biblical Geography Label this map, following the instructions of the map exercise under, “Bringing the story to life.”

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Field study 1

Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

Observation journaling This section will prepare you for study in field study 2. You will read through the first section of the book of Obadiah. There are three types of exercises: some for before you read, some for while you are reading and some for after you have completed the reading.

Before you read Discuss and fill in the chart below with what you already know about the prophet Obadiah and his message to the Edomites. This exercise will help you learn and remember as you encounter new information.

Fill in the new information after you have read the text.

What I already know

Reading knowledge chart

New information

Obadiah the prophet

God’s view of Edom

Prophets and Prophecy

While you are reading On the following page we have laid out the biblical text with wide margins so you can mark the text with questions, key terms, notes and structures. The verse markings are removed so you can read it without distractions. The lines of text are indented to help you see how the lines are related. Review the guidelines on The art of active learning section, page xi at the beginning of your Field Notes for some suggestions on reading, learning and marking the text effectively.

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Obadiah 1–9 The vision of Obadiah.

The Sovereign LORD says this about Edom.

We have heard a message from the LORD, and a messenger was sent to the nations saying, “Rise up, and let us make war against her.”

Look I will make you weak among the nations; you will be greatly despised.

The pride of your heart has deceived you, You who live in the clefts of the rock and make your home high in the mountains, you who say in your heart, ‘No one can bring me down to the ground’ Even if you were to soar like an eagle and set your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down, declares the LORD. If thieves came to rob you in the night you would have been destroyed would they not steal only enough for themselves?

Notes, O Observations & Questions

If grape pickers came to harvest your vineyards, would they not leave a few grapes?

How the people of Esau will be plundered, their hidden treasures ransacked!

All your allies will drive you from your homeland; your trusted friends will deceive and overpower you; those who eat your bread will set an ambush for you, which will take you by surprise.

“Will I not on that day,” declares the LORD, destroy the wise men from Edom, advisors from the mountains of Esau?

Your warriors will be terrified, O Teman, and everyone in the mountains of Esau will be cut down in the slaughter.

SSummarize the text here

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Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

After you have read 1. In the margin of the page, write a few questions that you have about the text or from the text.

2. Go back to your reading knowledge chart on page 14 and fill in anything that you have learned while reading through this first section of Obadiah. Compare it with what you already knew to see what the text has revealed so far.

3. What will happen? Like any good story, the events of the plot will twist and turn into a dramatic conclusion at the end. Fill in the chart below with your predictions about the Edomites and the people of Israel. Only fill out the predictions column. Leave the results column for after you have completed field study 5.

Predictions How will the Edomites be judged

by God?

What will happen to Judah?

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Prediction Chart Results

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4. Journaling is another way to help us learn. Your mind will remember more if you read something and then do something with it like write it down. Therefore, write out Obadiah 1–9 from the previous page or your own Bible into a journal word for word.

This practice will help you to remember and understand what you have just read. Another option is to create a daily journal to record your thoughts or your prayers. This week journal your thoughts as you consider any feuds, grudges or ongoing disagreements that you may have, or that are in your family, your community, your nation or your church. Write down how God would want you to respond and then respond accordingly.

Field study 1 Notes, Observations & Questions

5. Now read Obadiah 1–9 in your own Bible. Continue to reread it each day until you get to field study 2. This will reinforce the learning of Scripture and help you in retention.

Memorizing the key Commit to memory the key phrase for this field study. Part of learning the Bible is remembering what the Bible is about and where to find information. Memorizing the key phrases will help you to better understand and apply the key points of each book. The key phrase for the introduction to Obadiah is: A family conflict became a long war of nations

Pray As we learn the word of God, it is essential that we communicate with him through prayer. First, consider writing out a prayer, psalm, or poem to God. Writing it out will help you reflect on the ongoing conflict between the descendents of Esau and Jacob, and God’s impending judgment. Do you see similar feuding in your own life, community, nation or church? Has God kept you from such drastic feuding? Respond to him through a carefully thought through prayer that you will write out and pray each day this week. Consider the prayer on the following page as a sample of what you might write and pray to God. Consider doing this with a family member or small group to make it corporate prayer.

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Field study 1 Notes, Observations & Questions

Obadiah

A family conflict became a long war of nations

Sample prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you Lord today for the message of Obadiah. Thank you for helping me understand how seriously you regard prideful boasting. Thank you for your words of warning in this book in which I can reflect on pride in my own life and confess it to you. Lord please search my heart and convict me of sin and teach me how to be a humble person, seeking reconciliation in any broken relationship in my life. Lord, I lift up to you my family, my community, my church, and my nation today. I pray that in all things we would be in humble submission to your leading. You are the only one worth lifting up and to you be the glory. In the name of your Son Jesus I ask this, Amen.

Commit to praying each day about these issues with at least one other person. It could be a family member, friend or pastor. Even better would be to pray in a group or as a church. Corporate prayer binds our hearts together before the Lord. Pray.

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Excavate the Site Obadiah

Pride degenerates into violence and leads to destruction Field study 3

Obadiah 10–14

Field study 3 __________________________________________

How is the text arranged?

In this field study, we will study the second section of the book of Obadiah. It includes verses 10–14. In verses 1–9, we learn that the God of Israel is sovereign over the fate of individuals and nations. God decreed that because of the pride of the Edomites, he would bring Edom to complete destruction. The second section of Obadiah gives a detailed picture describing the multiple expressions of Edom’s violent pride. It also demonstrates the risk of rejecting the good news of the gospel of Christ. Look at its structure.

Obadiah 10–14

Section

Bible Text

Overview of the crime and judgment

10

Detailed description of the crime

11

Because of the violence done against your brother Jacob, shame shall cover you and you will be destroyed forever.

On the day that you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were just like one of them.

12 You should not gloat on your brother in the day he suffered calamity, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin, nor boast in their day of distress.

13 Do not enter the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor gloat over their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor loot their wealth in the day of their distress.

14 You should not stand at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, nor capture their survivors in their day of distress.

Application Have you ever experienced or are currently experiencing any tensions in your relationship with a close friend or family member? Do you know someone who has? Keep that conflict in mind while you study this text.

Violence The Hebrew word employed to describe Edom’s behavior means literally wickedness or violent wrong. Edom was vicious in its dealings with Judah.

Judah In verse twelve, the descendants of Jacob are identified as Judah.

This has led some experts to identify these events with the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. after the northern kingdom of Israel had already been conquered by the Assyrians in 722 B.C.

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Nicholas Fontaine, 1670

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Destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon In 586 B.C. King Nebuchadnezzar led the Babylonian attack against Jerusalem destroying the wall, the temple and the rest of the city and carrying off the remaining people into exile. It was an exile that would last 70 years.

Question Friendly sins are a common reality. Have you ever experienced this type of sin? If so, how?

We can say that Obadiah 10–14 describe the particular details of the cause behind the effect previously described in verses 1–9.

Obadiah has declared that the oncoming doom of Edom is the result of its pride. Here we see the violent quality of such pride.

Observe the description carefully. It is a violent pride done against Esau’s own blood, his brother Jacob. God’s judgment is neither capricious nor random. Edom’s behavior was outrageous and ruthless, especially since Edom and Israel descended from twin brothers.

In this second section of the prophecy, Obadiah presents for us a convincing case against the nation of Edom. The section starts with a brief description of Edom’s crime and its coming judgment. Then in verses 11–14, we discover the particular details of Edom’s violent behavior against Jacob. Edom’s violence follows a progression of ever-growing wickedness. From hostile passivity to violent murder and betrayal, Esau treated his brother Jacob as a despicable foreigner.

What is the passage saying?

What are the key terms?

This section contains several language elements that we must recognize and understand. They contain its essence of meaning.

Observe the following words and phrases and take note of their significance to the message of the book.

Key word or phrase Against your brother Jacob

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Meaning of key terms Meaning and significance The prophet seeks to clearly establish the familiar relationship that existed between Edom and Israel. The two nations descended from the same family. Their ancestors were twins. The use of the words brother and Jacob allows you to understand the close relationship that existed between these nations so you can better appreciate the magnitude of the sin.

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Key word or phrase

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Meaning of key terms Meaning and significance

You were just like one of them (a stranger)

Even to this day, you would expect a brother to act in love towards his own family by providing support, help, protection, and consolation in times of distress. Esau, however, acted as if he were a stranger, a foreigner that ruthlessly attacks with vengeance those he does not know or love.

You will be destroyed forever

Observe the severity of the judgment. Edom’s actions were serious. They carried with them tragic consequences. God’s punishment was not disciplinary. It was condemnatory. Edom would never recover from God’s judgment.

Day

If you observe the text carefully, you will find eight different occasions in which the word day is used. It is important to notice that the events described in the prophecy do not refer to events that took place during a period of 24 hours. The Bible many times uses the word day to describe a period of considerable extension. This concept would be similar to our use of the words season, epoch, or time, or to the more common phrases, during this time, or in this day and age.

The day of distress, the day of disaster

Edom’s violent behavior came upon his brother Jacob during Judah’s time of misfortune or distress. During a time when a brother was most needed, Edom behaved like any other enemy.

You should not

Verses 12–14 use the phrase you should not have in the beginning of most of the accusations contained in this section.

This repetition is called parallelism and it is a common way in which the Hebrew language gives emphasis to a particular idea. Edom had no excuse to act the way it did no matter what Jacob had done to them before.

Shame

The prophet proclaims that the result of Edom’s prideful violence would be shame. God’s punishment fits the sin. Pride will result in shame. The shame described in verses 10, 15–21 is the shame of everlasting destruction.

The progression of violence from verse 11 to verse 14

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Observe how this text presents a progression in the activity and expression of violence. In verse 11 Edom begins passively standing aloof, but later the nation is described as actively participating in their siege by being like one of them, that is, like the nation that was causing the destruction of Judah.

Note that verses 12–14 go on to describe in detail Edom’s active involvement in the distress of his brother. Edom goes from being a malicious bystander to expressing emotions of joy due to Israelite’s calamity, to rejoicing and mocking out loud at their disaster, to participating in the siege of the city, and finally to handing over fugitives to the enemy and even murdering some of them.

Destroyed forever After A.D. 70, there is not a single reference to the existence of the Edomites in all of history.

God truly destroys them forever.

Continue reading to find out how.

1. Stand aloof 2. Look down on their brother 3. Rejoice in their destruction 4. Boast in their trouble 5. March through the gates 6. Look down in their disaster 7. Seize all of their wealth 8. Kill all of their fugitives 9. Hand over their survivors

The Progression of Violence Verses 11–14 describe Edom’s violence as descends from passivity to murder.

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What about the culture?

Buried inside verse 11 you will find a small cultural comment that illustrates vividly the wickedness of the Edomites and those who attacked Israel. The verse describes how the invaders cast lots over Jerusalem. The practice was common in both Babylonia and Assyria.

It was done as part of a divination process that was used to solve a major problem among soldiers: greed. The greed of the invaders was so great that they had to cast lots so that it would be the gods’ decision how the spoils of victory would be distributed among the army. How interesting that a practice with such selfish and greedy motivations would be cloaked under the appearance of divine submission. Sadly, Edom had been just like one of these pagan nations. The Edomites had been willing to cast lots in order to satisfy their greed at the expense of their brother nation.

Jerusalem In the days of King David, ancient Jerusalem could fit inside most modern sports stadiums. In the days of King Hezekiah, some estimate that Jerusalem swelled to about 125 acres or 50 hectares and approximately 25,000 people.

That is still a very small city by today’s standards.

The Divided Nation of Israel Notice Jerusalem in the northern part of Judah in comparison with Edom’s capital of Sela in northern Edom.

What about the geography?

Verse 11 indicates that Edom’s violent behavior was conducted against the city of Jerusalem, the capital of the Dan southern kingdom of Judah founded by King David and established by his son Solomon around 1000 B.C. Observe the locations of Sea of BASHAN Galilee Jerusalem and Sela, the capital city of Edom, on the map so you can have a better idea GILEAD of the distances involved. The reference Ramoth-gilead to Jerusalem does not imply this was the only place conquered by Judah’s enemies. It merely announces that, being the capital city, AMMON it was the focal point of the conflict.

Mediterranean Sea

Jerusalem

Mount Zion

PH

Hebron

Dead Se

IL

a

IS

TI

A

ISRAEL

Beersheba

The King’s High way

Jordan River

Samaria

Jerusalem was a small city. At its pinnacle during the reign of King Hezekiah, Jerusalem covered an area of about 125 acres and had a population of about 25,000. It was not a major city by any modern standards but with respect to salvation, it was the most important city in the history of humankind.

MOAB

JUDAH NEGEV

EDOM

Mount Esau

T

Sela

Petra

What is God saying?

Teman?

Sadly, violence between family members is not a strange phenomenon. In fact, it goes back to the very first family of humankind.

The Bible contains plenty of examples that we can use as case studies to explore and

VAL

LEY

OF

SAL

Kadesh-barnea

Elath

B.C.

1100

1000

900

1050–1010 King Saul’s reign

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David establishes Jerusalem 1010

1010–970 King David’s reign 970–930 King Solomon’s reign

800 Northern kingdom falls to the Assyrians 722 King Hezekiah’s reign 715–686

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illustrate this principle proclaimed by Obadiah. Prideful violence does not go unnoticed by God, especially between members of the same family.

Where else does the Bible teach about family violence?

Unfortunately, Obadiah does not record the only instance of family violence in the Bible. King David, the man after God’s own heart, both caused and experienced violence within his own family. Consider the story of Absalom and his brothers in 2 Samuel 13–18. There are several other passages on family violence that you can explore in the Probing Deeper section of the Discoveries for this Field Study.

One famous example of family violence is King Henry VIII, the King of England from 1509–1547. Among other things, Henry is probably most noted for his horrendous treatment of his six wives. His first wife was Catherine of Aragon who did not produce a male heir and eventually Henry had the marriage annulled. He then married one of his mistresses Anne Boleyn, who also was not able to produce a male heir. Catherine eventually died and Henry executed Anne along with some of her family, so he could marry another mistress, Jane Seymour. She produced a male heir but died shortly after Prince Edward was born. For the sake of political alliances, Henry then married Anne of Cleves but detested her and eventually had the marriage annulled. Henry then married Catherine Howard who was eventually convicted of adultery and executed. His final wife, Catherine Parr outlasted Henry who died from multiple medical ailments at the age of 55. His tumultuous relationship with his many wives reflected his brutality throughout his reign as king.

Scholars differ on how many thousands of people were executed, poisoned, or falsely accused and imprisoned by Henry. In the end, his only male heir took the throne at age 9 and died six years later.

King Henry VIII’s dysfunctional home life and violence against his wives ultimately destroyed his health, his reign and his life, along with the lives of thousands of others.

1500 1491 Birth of Henry VIII

1510

1520

1530

1509 Henry ascends English throne 1509 Henry marries Catherine of Aragon 1516 Birth of Mary

Hans Holbein the Younger, 1539–1540

Where else does this happen in history?

Family violence is not only found in the Bible but also throughout history. Consider the following destructive tendencies of the English Tudor family:

King Henry VIII King Henry VIII of England is most remembered for his many wives. Henry divorced two, beheaded two, one died and the last wife survived him.

1540 1550 A.D.

1533 Henry marries Anne Boleyn Birth of Elizabeth 1533

1547 Henry dies

1540 Henry marries Anne Cleves 1536 Henry marries Jane Seymour

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Henry’s daughter Mary, from his first wife Catherine eventually became Queen of England and perpetuated her father’s violence, especially against the protestant Church. The family violence that Mary learned from her father, eventually earned her the title, Bloody Mary.

Violence can be stopped Bloody Mary succumbed to her father’s example of violence however, Henry’s daughter Elizabeth was able to break out of this evil cycle. She eventually came to the throne and brought about a peaceful and prosperous era.

Family violence reaches all levels of society from the reign of many kings and queens to their poorest subjects. Generally it stems from pride and often leads to the perpetrators’ destruction.

What does God want?

Hans Eworth, 1554

This section of Obadiah presents several important principles that should guide our life-change because of our study: •

Pride often manifests itself in violence and abuse towards others.

•

Violence never goes unnoticed by God. The judgment of Edom should remind us that familial violence in particular is clearly condemned by God and deserves the most extreme form of punishment. God will take care of injustice in due time, either through the grace of the gospel or in the judgment and punishment of the sinful.

•

The violence of pride escalates as time passes. Pride is always a downward spiral. Be watchful and observant of indicators of progressive violence in your heart and actions.

•

Injustice will happen. Violence and scorn come frequently from those whom we least expect. Jesus’ trial and crucifixion was the ultimate example of injustice and must warn us and encourage us to look to God and hope in him when we experience such treatment.

Queen Mary I of England Better known as Bloody Mary, Queen Mary was the eldest daughter of King Henry VIII and the only surviving child of Catherine of Aragon. She burned almost 300 dissenters at the stake as she continued in her father’s pattern of violence.

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Discoveries

Field study 3 Notes, Observations & Questions

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Now that you have completed your second dig into the ancient riches of God’s word found in Obadiah, it’s time to sift through your Discoveries and see what you have learned. Find the questions that are most helpful for you and your group.

Connecting with the community These discussion questions will help you to better understand the text.

Consider each of these questions in terms of yourself, your family, your community, your nation, and your church.

1. What reason does verse 10 present for the impending destruction of Edom?

2. What relationship exists between Edom’s violence and it’s pride?

How are these related? Could you identify times when pride in your own heart has manifested itself in violence?

3. List the different types of violence that were expressed by Edom in this section of Obadiah.

4. In verse 11 God accuses Edom of being just like a stranger to his own brother. What would it be like to act like a stranger to your father or brother today? Are you acting like a stranger to anyone in your family?

5. We often compare others to people we do not like using phrases like the one in verse 11, “you were just like one of them”. Consider the actions of Esau towards his brother Jacob in these verses.

Could someone accuse you of being “just like one of them”, as a stranger or enemy to someone you should love? Knowing the grace of the gospel, is there really anyone you should hate or treat like a foreigner?

6. List all of the things that Edom did on the day that their bother was attacked. Why are we indifferent to the sufferings of those around us? Meditate on the power of pride and its destructive tendency to affect our actions towards those closest to us.

For more information about how to use our Discoveries section go to www.SacraScript.org

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Field study 3 Notes, Observations & Questions

7. What does this section of Scripture teach us about the character of God? What does God reveal about himself?

8. Have you ever heard the saying, the punishment fits the crime?

Notice how verse 10 states that shame was God’s prescribed punishment to Edom’s pride. What was God trying to teach Edom and us in bringing shame upon the proud? Is God vengeful in heaping shame upon the proud? Consider Deuteronomy 32:35–36.

9. Highlight each instance of the word day in verses 10–14. Why do you think the prophecy puts such emphasis on the word day.

Support your answer from the text.

10. Notice the progression of violence from verse 11 to verse 14. Why did Edom’s violence increase when they began by being apathetic?

Are there any patterns of progressive violence in you, your community or even your nation towards any group? If so, what must be done in order to reverse that downward progression?

11. Edom began by being indifferent to the plight of their brother nation but degraded to murder. Have you ever considered yourself incapable of committing a major crime, much less a crime against a family member? What can you learn from the increasing evil brought on by Edom’s pride?

12. Reread the section on casting lots in verse 11. Are there any habits in your life that you know are sinful and yet, you assume God will overlook? Consider the sin of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1–11.

13. Jerusalem was not a large city in Old Testament times. Why is it so important, and why has there been so much quarreling over Jerusalem throughout history? Consider Psalm 48.

14. While Obadiah 10–14 speak of the actions of Edom, they are written to the people of Judah who are enduring injustice from their brother nation. How are you being called to endure injustice as an individual, a family, a community, a nation or a church?

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Probing deeper

Field study 3 Notes, Observations & Questions

Family violence is a sin that has occurred ever since the first sin in the garden of Eden. Consider exploring the theme of family violence for your continued study of Scripture that go beyond the text of Obadiah.

Section

Family violence in the Bible

Old Testament law and history

Passage

Family violence began with the first family. Read the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4. Can you discern the relationship between pride and violence and the actions and words of Cain? Explain.

Read the story of the sons of Jacob in Genesis 37. Make a list of the actions of Jacob, Joseph and Joseph’s brothers.

Observe your list and describe the way these actions lead to violence. Can you perceive some of these actions and this attitude in your life, your family or your local church? Could you create a new hypothetical list of actions that would have prevented the violence? Knowing that violence happens, is there hope in this story even in the midst of human failure?

Explain.

Read Numbers 12 attentively and meditate carefully about the following questions. What was the reason behind the attitudes and actions of Aaron and Miriam towards Moses?

Was Moses in any way at fault? Explain the relationship between violence and pride in this story. How was violence expressed in this story? Do you see yourself in any part of it?

Read the story of David and Uriah in 2 Samuel 12. Make a list of the sins of David that lead to the murder of Uriah.

Read the progression of Edom’s violence found in this field study of your Field Notes. Create a similar graph that shows the connection and progression of David’s sin. How could this downfall be interrupted? What quality of character was David lacking that could have saved him from reaching the point of violence and murder?

Read the stories of the sons of David in 2 Samuel 13–18.

They are full of conflict and family violence. Choose one of the stories and make a list of observations about the actions of the characters involved. What actions and attitudes are characteristic of families who are quarrelsome and live in disharmony? Make a list of things to avoid in your family relationships.

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Old Testament poetry

Passage

If you are familiar with the story of Job, you can recall how much verbal violence Job endured from his friends. His reaction to their words is found in places like Job 12:1–4; 13:2–15. Read the epilogue to the story of Job in Job 42:7– 10. What can we learn from this text about solving previous conflicts among friends and family members? How does God give you an example to follow so peace can be restored in your relationships?

Read Psalm 55. Who are the enemies of the psalmist in this psalm? Make a list of the emotions experienced by the psalmist when facing these injustices. Is his response violent?

How does he solve this situation? Reread verses 22–23. How do these texts offer you an alternative to violence when suffering injustice?

Old Testament prophets

Those who are faithful to God are sometimes subject to violence and abuse from their friends, family and neighbors.

Read Jeremiah 20. Have you ever felt that way? If yes, how have you reacted? If not, why do you think that is the case?

Would you be willing to suffer violence for the sake of God’s name? Read Jeremiah 1:1–10. What can you learn from these two chapters with respect to God’s purposes for the lives of his children?

Read the story of Daniel in the lion’s den in Daniel 6. In this story, Daniel was betrayed by his coworkers and also, accidentally, by his king who truly loved him. Make a list of the actions and words of Daniel in this chapter. Compare and contrast those actions with the actions of Edom. What can you learn from the example of Daniel?

The Gospels and Church history

Read John 7:1–8, then read Mark 13:5–13. Violence sometimes arises in the family because of the gospel.

Prayerfully meditate in Mark 13:13. Would you be willing to lose your family and be murdered by a close relative for the sake of the gospel? Is the Christian called to endure some types of violence, no matter the injustice involved, for the sake of the gospel? How could you detect pride or humility in a person that is suffering rejection because of the name of Christ? How would their attitudes and actions differ?

Read Luke 15:11–32. In this story, the two brothers are examples of pride that leads to different types of violence.

Describe the pride and violence manifested in the actions of each brother. The father is an example of humility and mercy.

Describe and contrast his actions to the actions of his sons.

Meditate on your own family in the light of the actions of the father and his sons. How is your family similar? How is it different? What changes can you make in your family from what you learn in this passage?

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Family violence in the Bible

Field study 3 Notes, Observations & Questions

Passage

New Testament letters

Read Galatians 5. Meditate specifically on verses 13–15.

Explain how the entire chapter relates to the exhortation of these verses. What two opposite ways of living are described in verses 19–21 and 22–25. Now read verse 26. How is the violence in the church of Galatia related to pride according to this verse? How does your church or family compare to the experience of the Galatians?

Prophecy

Read Revelation 18 and 19. Make a list of the descriptions made about the Great Babylon. How do these descriptions relate to pride? Make a list of the lamentations of all of those that are partakers of Babylon and its luxuries. Then make a list of the reasons for joy and praise given to the saints of God. Compare these lists. How do they offer hope in present times of violence and injustice? How can you live in the present in the light of this future hope?

Bringing the story to life On the following page is an illustration with nine steps representing the moral descent of Edom described in Obadiah 11–14. This text shows that the Edomites started as indifferent to the plight of their brother nation. However, they quickly moved from indifference to active participation in pillage and murder. This theme of rapid moral decay has expressed itself in many ways in our culture. Many books, films and stories have been written conveying this exact scenario.

They begin in innocence and apathy towards a situation and end in endorsement, participation, and murder.

To combat this moral descent we must pray. Fill in each of the steps with what Edom did in verses 11–14 on that day. Then think of a similar situation that you are aware of. It may be in your own life, the life of your family, your community, your nation or your church.

Compare the situation that you are aware of or involved in with the Edomites. Are their similarities? How does this ancient text apply to our situations today? Take time to pray down each step that the Lord would intervene in that situation and stop the moral descent.

Continue to pray for your situation that God will intervene and that whoever is involved, would not descend all the way down to their own destruction.

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The Descent of Edom 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Observation journaling This section will prepare you for field study 4 by reading through the final section of Obadiah. These are three types of exercises: some for before you read, some for while you are reading, and some for after you have completed the reading.

Before you read Go back and reread Obadiah 10–14. Make a list all of the occurrences of the word day and everything the Edomites did in that day. Since repetition is used for emphasis in the Old Testament, what is the author trying to emphasize? What do you expect God’s response will be to what Edom did that day?

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Pride degenerates into violence and leads to destruction Occurrences of the word day in Obadiah 10–14: 1.

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

What does Obadiah emphasize?

How will God respond?

While you are reading On the following page the biblical text is laid out with wide margins so you can mark the text with questions, key terms, notes and structures.

All of the verse markings have been removed so you can read it without distractions. The lines of text are indented to help you see how the lines are related. Review the guidelines on The art of active learning section, page xi at the beginning of your Field Notes for some suggestions on reading, learning and marking the text effectively.

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Obadiah 15–21 Notes, Observations & Questions

For the day of the LORD is approaching for all nations.

As you have done, it will be done to you; your dealings will return upon your own head.

Just as you drank on my holy mountain, all the nations will drink continually; they will drink and swallow and become as if they had never existed.

But on Mount Zion there will be those who escape, and it will be holy, and the house of Jacob will possess their own possessions.

The house of Jacob will be a fire and the house of Joseph a flame; the house of Esau will be like stubble, and they will burn them and consume them.

There will be no survivors in the house of Esau, for the LORD has spoken.

The people from the Negev will possess the mountains of Esau, and people from Shephelah will possess the land of the Philistines.

They will occupy the land of Ephraim and Samaria, and Benjamin will possess Gilead.

The exiles of this company of Israelites will possess the land of the Canaanites as far as Zarephath, and the exiles from Jerusalem who are in Sepharad will possess the cities of the Negev.

The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion to rule the mountains of Esau, and the kingdom will be the LORD’s.

Summarize the text here

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After you have read 1. Write a few questions that you have from what you just read in the margin.

Field study 3 Notes, Observations & Questions

2. Go back and look at what you wrote down about all that Edom did from the before you read exercise on page 49. Did you predict that the Lord would have his day just like the Edomites had theirs? What is the author trying to emphasize with the ongoing repetition of the word day from verses 10–15?

3. Journaling is another way to help us learn. Your mind will remember more if you read something and then do something with it like write it down. Therefore, write out Obadiah 15–21 from the previous page or your own Bible into a journal word for word. This practice will help you to remember and understand what you have just read. Another option is to create a daily journal to record your thoughts or your prayers. This week, journal your thoughts as you consider the coming day of the Lord. Specifically record your thoughts about the fact that God will treat us in the same way that we have treated others. How does that affect you, your family, your community, your nation, or your church?

Write down how God would want you to respond and then act accordingly.

4. Now read Obadiah 15–21 in your own Bible. Continue to reread it each day until you get to field study 4. This will reinforce the learning of Scripture and help you in retention.

Memorizing the key Commit to memory the key phrase for this field study. Part of learning the Bible is remembering what the Bible is about and where to find information. Memorizing the key phrases will help you to better understand and apply the key points of each book. The key phrase for Obadiah 10–14 is: Pride degenerates into violence and leads to destruction

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Field study 3 Notes, Observations & Questions

Pray As we learn the word of God, it is essential that we communicate with him through prayer. First, consider writing out a prayer or psalm or poem to God. Writing it out will help you reflect on the issues of family violence and moral decay. Do you struggle with pride that leads to violence against your own family? Are you aware of any situations like that in your community, your nation or your church? Commit to praying throughout the week that you will treat your family with love and respect. This includes your extended family, your community, your nation and your church. Consider this as a sample prayer: Gracious Father, I come in thanksgiving today for your word and your message through the prophet Obadiah. I thank you that your kingdom will come on earth and people’s deeds will be judged according to your righteousness. Lord I ask that you will search my heart today and show me who I have not reconciled with and who I have offended by my words and actions. As you have shown me grace, I pray that you will help me show grace to others in my family, my church and my community. Help me to always treat people, especially my family members with love and respect. Thank you for my family. Thank you for my friends. I pray that my thoughts, words, and actions will please you today as I interact with my community. In the name of Jesus and through the power of the Spirit I pray, Amen.

Commit to praying each day about these issues with at least one other person. It could be a family member, friend or pastor. Even better would be to pray in a group or as a church. Corporate prayer binds our hearts together before the Lord. Pray.

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