Book: The Way of the Word: Chapter 31: Obadiah - Study Guide
- Dr. Layne McDonald
- 22 hours ago
- 5 min read
Hey there, friends! Welcome back to our journey through The Way of the Word. We’ve reached Chapter 31, and today we’re diving into the shortest book in the Old Testament: Obadiah. Don’t let its size fool you, though. This little book packs a massive punch. It’s a intense, fiery, and ultimately hopeful message about pride, justice, and the restoration of God’s people.
If you’ve been following along in our main study, you know that Obadiah is essentially a case study in what happens when human pride meets divine justice. It’s the story of two brothers: Jacob and Esau: and the nations that came from them (Israel and Edom). For centuries, Edom sat in their high mountain fortresses, looking down on their brothers in Israel with a mix of arrogance and indifference. When Israel was in trouble, Edom didn't just walk away; they gloated. And that’s where Obadiah steps in.
This study guide is designed to help your small group, Bible study, or personal devotional time go deeper into these twenty-one verses. We’re going to peel back the layers of Edom’s pride, look at our own hearts, and find the incredible hope that comes when we realize that "the kingdom shall be the Lord’s."
Let’s get into it!
Key Themes for Discussion
1. The Deception of Pride
Obadiah 1:3 says, "The pride of your heart has deceived you." Edom thought they were untouchable because of their geography. They lived in the "clefts of the rock" (Sela/Petra), high above everyone else. They thought their mountain fortresses made them safe from judgment. But pride is a master of disguise: it makes us think we are self-sufficient when we are actually most vulnerable.
2. The Sin of Bystanding
One of the most sobering parts of Obadiah is God’s indictment of Edom for their behavior when Jerusalem was attacked. They didn't just attack Israel; they stood by and watched. They rejoiced in their brother’s disaster. In God’s eyes, being a bystander to injustice is a serious sin. We are called to be our brother's keeper, not his critic.
3. The Day of the Lord
Obadiah introduces us to the concept of the "Day of the Lord." It’s a day of reckoning where the scales are balanced. Verse 15 gives us a universal principle: "As you have done, it shall be done to you." For those who walk in pride and violence, this is a warning. For those who are oppressed and suffering, this is a promise of justice.
4. Restoration and the Kingdom
The book ends on a high note. While Edom (representing human pride) is brought low, Mount Zion (representing God’s presence and people) is restored. The final verse is the ultimate "spoiler" for human history: the kingdom will belong to the Lord. No matter how chaotic the world feels, God is reclaiming every square inch of His creation.
Group Discussion Questions
First Impressions: Before diving into the details, what was your initial reaction to the Book of Obadiah? Is there a specific verse or phrase that stood out to you right away?
The "High Places": Edom felt secure because of their physical location in the mountains. What are the "high places" in our modern world where people find a false sense of security? (Think about wealth, status, technology, etc.)
The Mirror of Pride: Verse 3 says pride deceives us. Why is pride so hard to spot in our own lives, even when it’s obvious to everyone else?
Brotherly Betrayal: The conflict between Edom and Israel goes all the way back to Esau and Jacob. How can ancient family wounds or "generational baggage" affect how we treat others today?
The Bystander Effect: God calls out Edom for "standing aloof" while their brother suffered (v. 11). Why is it sometimes easier to stay silent or "neutral" when we see someone else being treated unfairly?
Gloating and Comparison: Have you ever felt a secret twinge of satisfaction when someone who "had it coming" finally failed? How does Obadiah’s message challenge that heart attitude?
The Justice Principle: Verse 15 says, "As you have done, it shall be done to you." How does this principle of divine justice shape your understanding of God's character?
God’s Sovereignty: Edom had wisdom and allies (v. 7-8), but God brought them down anyway. What does this teach us about the limitations of human wisdom and political power?
The Day of the Lord: When you hear the phrase "The Day of the Lord," do you feel more fear or more hope? Why?
Refuge in Zion: In verse 17, Mount Zion is called a place of "deliverance." How can we, as the Church, be a place of refuge and deliverance for people in our community today?
Possessing the Inheritance: The house of Jacob is promised they will "possess their inheritance" (v. 17). What are some of the spiritual inheritances we have in Christ that we sometimes forget to "possess"?
The Final Victory: The book ends with "the kingdom shall be the Lord’s." How does this ultimate reality change the way you look at the news or global conflicts?
Practical Humility: What is one specific area of your life where you might be leaning on your own strength rather than trusting God? How can you practice humility in that area this week?
Active Love: How can we move from being "bystanders" to being "active participants" in God’s work of justice and mercy?
The Assemblies of God Perspective: Reflecting on the 16 Fundamental Truths, how does Obadiah illustrate the "Blessed Hope" and the "Kingdom of God"?
Action Steps: Walking It Out
Audit Your Heart: Spend ten minutes in silence this week. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any "high places" of pride in your heart. Write them down and surrender them to Jesus.
Be a Brother/Sister: Identify someone in your life who is currently going through a "day of disaster." Instead of standing aloof, reach out with a practical act of service or a word of encouragement.
Pray for the Nations: Obadiah reminds us that God is the judge of all nations. Spend some time praying for global areas where there is conflict and betrayal, asking for God’s justice and peace to prevail.
Kingdom Mindset: Every time you feel overwhelmed by the state of the world this week, speak the words of Obadiah 1:21 out loud: "The kingdom shall be the Lord’s."
Memory Verse
"But on Mount Zion there shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions... And the kingdom shall be the Lord’s." : Obadiah 1:17, 21 (NKJV)
About the Author: Dr. Layne McDonald
Layne McDonald, Ph.D., is a dedicated husband, father, author, and minister with a passion for helping people discover the depth of God’s Word. With decades of experience in Christian leadership and education, Dr. McDonald specializes in making complex theological truths accessible and practical for everyday life. His work is rooted in biblical integrity and a deep love for the local church. Through his books, Bible studies, and cultural commentary, he seeks to equip believers to lead with heart, discern the times with wisdom, and grow in their walk with Jesus Christ.
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So, here’s a final question to carry with you: If God were to look at your "high places" today: the things you rely on most for your security: would He find a fortress of pride or a foundation of faith?
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