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God rules in the kingdoms of men - Obadiah
God rules in the kingdoms of men - Obadiah
God rules in the kingdoms of men, so said Nebuchnezzar (Daniel 4: ). We have watched as God has used the nations of the world to accomplish HIS purposes and plans. Even the powerful Pharaoh was raised up by God to show GOD'S glory.
Along the journey, we have watched as Esau and Jacob struggled from their birth. Their descendants became the nations of Edom and Israel. We see that Esau was called Edom (Gen. 36:1, 8, 19, 43). Because of this relationship, Moses gave them preferential treatment as Israel travelled to the promised land (Deut. 2:4, 23:7).
The Edomites had settled in the region of Mt. Seir. Today, this area is famous for the great city of Petra, built by the Nabateans who lived in this area following the demise of Edom. Thus we see the reference to them living 'in the clefts of the rock' and making their 'nest among the stars' (Obad. 3, 4).
David and Solomon were able to conquer and rule over the Edomites (cp. 1 Chron. 18:11-13). Now, with the apostasy of Judah, the Edomites rebel and join the enemies of Israel. Jehoram, Amaziah, and Ahaz all struggled against the Edomites.
Now, God raises up the prophet Obadiah to warn the Edomites of their coming destruction. Such destruction came by the hand of the Babylonians. When they subjugated Judah (609 BC), they also conquered all of the nations around Judah, including the Edomites.
God ruled Judah through His law/covenant. God ruled over the nations such as Edom and Moab, holding them accountable for crimes, not against the Law of Moses, but against humanity. This is one of the many times where we see that God was aware of and in control of the nations other than Israel.
As God's people today, a spiritual nation and the fulfillment of the promises to Abraham, we can take strength in the fact that God still rules over the nations. When Rome failed to live up to God's purposes (cp. Rom. 13), God destroyed them. We can have confidence as we pray that concerning "kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity" (1Tim. 2:2). Such admonition is particularly needed as we face the changing situation here in our country. Are you praying?
Hugh DeLong
