Obadiah

Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the prophet.

      The book of Obadiah was written by Obadiah according 1:1. We don't know for sure when it was written, but it could have been just before the fall of Jerusalem. The original readers would been Judah, though Obadiah talks mostly about Edom. In 1:17-21 Obadiah ends his prophecy with a prophecy to Judah. Most of the book is talking about Edom and their many sins. Edom didn't help out their relatives, Israel when they were in trouble (1:11). They were also prideful (1:3) and God calls for judgment against Edom (1:1). The book ends with a coming hope of Israel returning to its land (1:17).

What does this book show about the character and nature of God?

      God is a God of justice (1:15). I see this portrayed throughout the book as God demands justice for Edom's sins. What were their sins? They didn't help their relatives and neighbors when they were in trouble. Instead, they plundered them when they were overtaken. God holds Edom responsible, even though God was judging Israel. Edom chose to be prideful and self-seeking. They chose to gain for themselves instead of helping a brother in need and I think we really see God's heart for helping those in need.

What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

      We see clearly that God hopes to bring redemption to Israel in 1:17-21. He talks about bringing them back to their land and that the Lord with be there king. This is very similar to what most of the prophets are prophesying at the end of their books. What I see different in Obadiah is God's vengeance and protection of His people. His anger rages against Edom, because God's goal is never to destroy Israel, but to redeem them. Edom had a chance to be part of the redemption process, but they took advantage of their defeat instead. God is angry, because they were cheering on Israel's enemies instead of fighting for Israel. In the end God gives Israel hope even though their own relatives came against them. When everyone that could have came to their aid abandoned them, God says that He will one day restore them.

Point of Passion (Bronx, NYC)

     God protects those in need and so we too should protect those in need.  As he protects and defends the people of Israel when other nations came to attack them, we too should come to the aid of the poor and the weak.  It's a simple truth, but one we are lacking and one NYC needs improvement on.  With so many homeless and so many in the projects there is ample opportunity to care for those in need.  It should be our heart to care for them and protect them.  The rich should not oppress and the rich should not get all the benefits.  While Manhattan lies in wealth the boroughs around it suffer with half the care that Manhattan has.  Money talks, but this is not God's way of working things.  God calls for equal attention to the rich and the poor.  Too often this city has paid more attention to the flashy and the wealthy when instead more attention needs to be given to the many many communities suffering in poverty.