Prophecy is pre-written history. Obadiah knew that a foreign foe was coming. Esau was the son of Isaac, just as Jacob was, but he cared more for the temporal things of the world than for his birthright (Genesis 25:27-34). His descendants were just like him. The message, therefore, is directed to those who have the opportunity to be spiritual, but who choose instead to be worldly.

When Israel was hard-pressed, Edom refused to help them. They took a neutral stance; they adopted a do-nothing policy. Finally, they engaged in open hostility against Israel.

No personal history of the man, Obadiah, is given. We do know that his name means ''worshiper'' or ''servant of Jehovah.'' His writings foresee the doom of the Edomites. Although the Edomites have lost their national identity among the existing nations [today], God will search them out in the last days. Obadiah's prediction, of the destruction about to befall them, is a picture of the judgment to come upon the nations.

1. Doom upon Edom (v.1-9)
2. The Cause for Destruction (v.10-14)
3. The Day of the Lord (v.15-21)

• First, the prophet accused them of standing aloof (v.11). In every conflict between right and wrong, the person who remains neutral does much of the damage.
• Second, they actually saw the destruction and distress of Jerusalem with their own eyes (v.12). What a terrible thing to refuse to help the Lord's people! In the present Jewish situation, we would do well to consider the fact that God's attitude has not changed toward His chosen people. Oh, I know that one may argue the craftiness of the Jews, pointing out that they are still supplanters. Even so, we must not join those who would condemn them. I fear for any nation that causes grief to Israel. [cp. Gen 12:1-3]
• Third, the Edomites gloated when Israel fell (v.12).
• Fourth, they spoke proudly; they had what we call the ''pharisaical attitude.'' Edom stood by and said, ''That's all right; they probably deserved it.''
• Fifth, not only were the Edomites guilty of wicked indifference, they eventually became actively involved in Israel's distress (v.13).
• Sixth, Edom took advantage of Judah's trouble by plundering some of their wealth (v.13).
  Sin is never the sudden outburst of a moment.
  (Note carefully the steps these relatives of Israel had taken in their downfall.)
• Seventh, they gave open assistance to the enemy (v.14). When the Israelites escaped and tried to flee, the Edomites cut them off from their defenses and handed them over to their pursuers.