Obadiah

1.Historical background and purpose of the prophet:

Edom's cooperation with foreigners in sacking Jerusalem (verse10-14) forms the historical background to the prophecy. It may have occurred probably 850BC in the reigh of Jehoram during a period of revolt by Edom when Judah was threatened by invading Philistines and Arabians.  On the other hand, also possible is a reference to Edomite complicity in the Babylonian capture of Jerusalem in 586BC.
Thus, possible dates for the composition of Obadiah are 840BC, or between the fall of Jerusalem in 586BC and the fall of Babylon to Cyrus in 539BC.
And, this book carries a strong message of judgement for Edom that their fate is sealed because of their long history of opposing God's people.
And, this book also carries a message of the restoration of Israel(verse19-21).

2.What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God?

God judge the arrogant nation as described in the verse of 1:3-4. ; "You have been deceived by your own pride ~ I will bring you crashing down".
And, God judge especially when we do violence to our close relatives. Then  we will be filled with shame and destroyed forever(1:10).

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

In the verses from 17 to 21, Obadiah prophesies the restoration of Israel. And, it ends like as "Those who have been rescued will go up to Mount Zion in Jerusalem to rule over the mountains of Edom. And the Lord himself will be king."

4.Personal application:

We are having a relative country of North Korea. God wants we do help them and not to be against them or neglect them. He told that they will do to us as we do to them(1:15). So, I have to try to have concerns about our relative North Korea.

5.Point of Passion Assignment

I want to make the unbelievers know God and love Him and believe in Him. Especially I have to have concerns about our relative country North Korea. This country is one of the most risky and difficult countries to evangelize. But, I have to follow to God's command to love our relatives. How can I help them, how can I make them know well about God ? My mission can be started with prayer for this country.  -end-