Summary of Meaning

In Obadiah 1:7, the prophet Obadiah addresses the nation of Edom, highlighting the betrayal experienced by Israel from their allies. This verse portrays a picture of treachery, illustrating how those who were at peace with Edom have turned against them, bringing them to ruin. It reveals the painful consequences of misplaced trust and the fragility of alliances.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that the confederacy Edom relied on has proven to be unreliable. The men who were supposed to be friends became agents of betrayal. Henry elaborates that this reflects the broader theme of divine justice against those who harm God's people.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out that Edom’s downfall is rooted in their overreliance on human alliances instead of seeking God’s counsel. He notes that betrayal from trusted allies can lead to devastating consequences, whereas true security lies in the Lord.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke provides a contextual analysis, mentioning how the historical backdrop of Edom's enmity with Israel culminates in this betrayal. He underscores that the eating of bread together signifies close fellowship, which makes the betrayal more poignant.

Bible Cross-References

1. Psalms 41:9: "Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me."
2. Proverbs 16:29: "A man of violence entices his neighbor and leads him in a way that is not good."
3. Jeremiah 49:10: "But I have made Esau bare, I have uncovered his secret places, and he shall not be able to hide himself..."
4. Ezekiel 35:5: "Because thou hast had a perpetual hatred and hast shed the blood of the children of Israel..."
5. Isaiah 19:2: "...and I will set the Egyptian against the Egyptian; and they shall fight everyone against his brother..."
6. Luke 22:48: "But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?”
7. Micah 7:5: "Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide..."
8. Matthew 10:36: "And a man's foes shall be they of his own household."
9. 2 Samuel 15:31: "And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom..."
10. Psalm 55:12-14: "For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me..."

Connections between Bible Verses

This verse illustrates the theme of treachery and betrayal, which is found throughout the Scriptures. The connections between the themes in Obadiah and various other passages highlight God's justice against those who deceive and harm His people. By examining verses such as Psalms 41:9 and Matthew 10:36, one can see a consistent warning regarding the nature of alliances and trust.

By using tools such as a bible concordance and a bible cross-reference guide, readers can uncover these thematic Bible verse connections more effectively. These resources allow a deeper exploration of the inter-Biblical dialogue that exists, enriching the understanding of how different scriptures resonate with each other.

Practical Application

As readers reflect on Obadiah 1:7, it encourages a cautionary approach to trusting in human relationships and alliances. It fosters a deeper reliance on God as the ultimate protector. Believers are reminded to seek wisdom and discernment in their relationships to avoid the pitfalls of betrayal.