12th September 2024

12th September 2024


Pray (ACts)


Read (Obadiah 1v10-14)


Message (Scott Woodburn)


There are a range of opinions as to the exact historical setting of Obadiah. Verse eleven refers back to a day that the city of Jerusalem was captured and the wealth of the city carried off by her enemies. Jerusalem had known several days like this one but the most famous “sacking” of the city came in 587BC when Nebuchadnezzar arrived and brought to an end the Kingdom of Judah. Others argue that Obadiah is referring to an earlier day of trouble for Jerusalem which took place around 850BC. This was an attack by the Philistines and Arabs during the reign of King Jehoram (2 Chronicles 21v16-17).


Scholars go back and forth on the dating of Obadiah but we can say several things with certainty. Firstly, the ancient bond between Israel and Edom was in a sorry state. Secondly, the Edomites were filled with arrogance and pride - no one could bring them down from their lofty position. Finally, when Jerusalem needed help, Edom “stood aloof” and watched as the city gates were entered by a foreign invader (v11b). To be “aloof” is to be distant and reserved and so Edom remained in their mountain forts with the attitude “it’s got nothing to do with us.” Yet they had been misled by the arrogance of their hearts. The fall of Jerusalem was their concern because “Jacob” was their brother. Even so, Edom gave no help to Judah preferring to stand in splendid aloof isolation. Edom may have argued that they had not attacked the city walls or carried off the loot or spilled innocent blood but by their inaction they became like Judah’s attackers (v11c) - they were every bit as guilty as those who swung the sword.


Most prefer a quiet life and rarely do any “go looking for trouble” Yet this understandable desire can sometimes lead to sin. Is it appropriate to listen to gossip and tell ourselves “nothing to do with me”? It is acceptable to be in a position to offer help and say “no, sorry, too busy”? Is it right to silently watch a brother in Christ verbally torn to shreds with the attitude “I’m glad that wasn’t me”?


Brothers and sisters, I do not call you to constant fights and arguments but equally many of us are dressed for bed when action is required outside. The cause of Christ is noble, the Gospel is precious and we are with Jesus by faith. Therefore may we be dressed and ready for action with our lamps burning (Luke 12v35). Samuel Rutherford was right “God has called you to Christ's side, and if the wind is now in His face, you cannot expect to rest on the sheltered side of the hill.” 


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q88 What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption? The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption are, his ordinances, especially the Word, Sacraments, and prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.
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