Understanding Obadiah 1:11

Introduction: The book of Obadiah is one of the shortest books in the Bible, yet it carries weighty themes regarding judgment, pride, and the fate of nations. Obadiah 1:11 holds significant meaning in the context of Israel's history and God's justice.

Verse Context

Obadiah 1:11 reads: "In the day that thou stoodest on the other side, in the day that the strangers carried away captive his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou wast as one of them." This verse addresses the attitude of Edomites during Jerusalem's destruction.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry highlights the participation of Edom in the calamity of Jerusalem, suggesting their inaction was akin to being an accomplice in acts against their brethren. The phrase "thou wast as one of them" condemns Edom for indifference and cruelty towards God's people.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes that the Edomites, rather than helping Israel, reveled in their misfortune. He underscores that this betrayal led to their own eventual downfall, as divine justice extends to nations complicit in wrongdoing against His chosen people.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke discusses the historical context, pointing out that the Edomites were supposed to be allies of Israel. Their betrayal illustrates a breach of brotherhood, drawing parallels with broader themes of loyalty and divine retribution found throughout Scripture.

Thematic Connections

The themes of betrayal and judgment in Obadiah 1:11 echo throughout the Bible. Here are several connections to other verses:

• Psalm 137:7: Reflects on the bitterness of the Edomites during the Babylonian exile.
• Ezekiel 35:5: Emphasizes the animosity between Edom and Israel, predicting judgment on Edom for its hatred.
• Jeremiah 49:10: Speaks to the exposure of Edom's treachery and the impending doom upon them.
• Matthew 25:40: Links to the idea of how we treat others reflecting our treatment of God, which ties into Edom's failure to support Israel.
• Obadiah 1:10: Directly mentions the disgrace of Edom due to their violent actions against the people of Israel.
• Proverbs 17:17: Highlights the value of true friendship and loyalty, contrasting with Edom's betrayal.
• Luke 19:41-44: Jesus weeps over Jerusalem's fate, paralleling the downfall of those who fail to recognize the impending judgment.

Bible Verse Cross-References

This verse serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of Biblical texts and themes through cross-referencing. Understanding Obadiah 1:11 within the larger narrative of the Bible offers deeper insights into God's justice and human relationships.

Using Bible Cross-References Effectively

To enhance your study of this verse:

• Utilize a Bible concordance to find related verses.
• Engage in a cross-reference Bible study for thematic exploration.
• Explore resources on how to use Bible cross-references for a more comprehensive understanding.
• Look into tools for Bible cross-referencing to identify connections effortlessly.
• Consider thematic studies that analyze Bible verses that relate to each other.

Conclusion

Obadiah 1:11 serves as an important reminder of the consequences of betrayal and the call to support our brethren. As we explore connections between Bible verses, we uncover the rich tapestry of God's word, offering insights into His character and justice.