This sermon continues a series on the Minor Prophets, emphasizing that these often-overlooked books proclaim the gospel and point to Jesus. After reviewing Hosea, Joel, and Amos, the focus turns to Obadiah, the shortest book in the Old Testament, yet rich with major biblical themes like the Day of the Lord (judgment and salvation) and the coming Kingdom of God.
Historical Background
Obadiah’s prophecy is directed against Edom, descendants of Esau, who betrayed their “brother nation” Judah during Babylon’s conquest of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. Rather than helping, Edom gloated, looted, captured fugitives, and handed them back to the Babylonians. Obadiah declares that God will judge Edom for its pride and treachery—judgment that historically came true when Edom was destroyed around 553 B.C.
The Problem of Pride
The sermon explores pride as the root sin—self-exaltation that leads to violence against God and others. Edom’s pride showed in:
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Geography & security – trusting their high mountain strongholds
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Alliances & wisdom – boasting in diplomatic ties and counselors
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Military might – relying on their warriors
God promised to bring them low, showing that human pride invites divine opposition. Pride, the speaker notes, is never portrayed positively in Scripture; it deceives, destroys, and leads to oppression.
Judgment & the Day of the Lord
God’s judgment on Edom is both immediate (fulfilled historically) and symbolic of the final judgment on all nations. The “Day of the Lord” will be a day when every nation and individual is held accountable. But for God’s people, that same day will be a day of deliverance and restoration—God will unify His people, establish justice, and rule from Zion.
Application for Today
Pride is not limited to Edom or ancient empires—nations, leaders, churches, and individuals still fall into the same trap. Pride denies dependence on God, breeds contempt for others, and destroys families, communities, and nations. The antidote is humility, modeled by Christ, who humbled Himself even to death to redeem humanity.
Christians are called to reject pride, embrace humility, and trust God’s justice rather than seeking vengeance. Obadiah reassures believers that God cares for His suffering people and will set all things right in His time. The kingdom’s coming is good news—evil will end, and Jesus will reign forever.