UNDERSTANDING OBADIAH | VITAL STATISTICS

0. Introduction

a) The Bible Book Introductions are divided into 4 parts (Overview, Vital Statistics, Blueprint, Mega-themes) for easy-to-understand.

1. Vital Statistics

@1. Purpose:

a) To show that God judges those who have harmed his people. 

@2. Author:

a) Obadiah. Very little is known about this man, whose name means "servant (or worshiper) of the Lord." 

@3. To Whom Written:

a) The Edomites, the Jews in Judah, and God's people everywhere.

@4. Date Written:

a) Possibly during the reign of Jehoram in Judah, 855-840 B.C., or possibly during Jeremiah's ministry, 627-586 B.C.

@5. Setting:

a) Historically, Edom had constantly harassed the Jews. Prior to the time this book was written, they had participated in attacks against Judah. Given the dates above, this prophecy came after the division of Israel into the northern and southern kingdoms and before the conquering of Judah by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 B.C. 

@6. Key Verse:

a) 15 “For the day of the Lord upon all the nations is near; As you have done, it shall be done to you;
Your reprisal shall return upon your own head. (Obadiah 1:15 NKJV).

@7. Key People:

a) The Edomites.

@8. Key Places:

a) Edom, Jerusalem.

@9. Special Features:

a) The book of Obadiah uses vigorous poetic language and is written in the form of a dirge of doom. 

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