The Verse
King James Version (KJV): Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen: thou art greatly despised.
New International Version (NIV): “See, I will make you small among the nations; you will be utterly despised.”
English Standard Version (ESV): “Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised.”
Introduction
In our journey through the Bible, we sometimes encounter verses that challenge us, that make us ponder the deeper truths they hold within. Obadiah 1:2 is one such verse. At first glance, it might seem daunting in its starkness, but as we delve deeper, we will find profound wisdom and divine revelation awaiting us.
Obadiah 1:2 speaks directly to the nation of Edom, but its lessons reach far beyond any single nation or people. It reaches into the heart of every believer, into the soul of the church, and into the fabric of every society. It speaks of God’s judgment, but also His mercy and infinite love.
Historical Context
The book of Obadiah is the shortest in the Old Testament, written by the prophet Obadiah, whose name means “servant of the Lord.” The exact date of its writing is unknown but it was likely during or after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Obadiah was sent to prophesy against the nation of Edom, a people descended from Esau, Jacob’s brother, which had gloated over Israel’s misfortune and taken advantage of its hardship.
Key Word Analysis
Three key phrases to explore are “Behold,” “I have made thee small,” and “thou art greatly despised”. ‘Behold’ is an attention-getting phrase used throughout scripture, always heralding something important to pay attention to. ‘I have made thee small’ implies God’s judgment but also His sovereignty; it is He who elevates and He who humbles. ‘Thou art greatly despised’ speaks not only to Edom’s status among other nations at the time but also God’s view of their pride and their arrogance.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals God’s judgment on those who exalt themselves, who take pride in their accomplishments without giving credit to God. It shows that God is a God of justice, who will not allow arrogance and cruelty to go unpunished. But it also reveals His mercy, for He gives the opportunity for repentance and redemption.
Life Application
Modern readers can draw from this verse a reminder of the dangers of pride and arrogance. It serves as a call to humility, to recognize that all we have comes from God and should be used for His glory. It also serves as a reminder to be compassionate to those in need, and not gloat over anyone’s misfortune.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“Beloved, remember, all you have is a gift from the Father. Do not let pride blind you to His grace. When others falter, do not gloat but extend a hand. For in humility, you find true greatness, and in compassion, you find true strength.”
Prayer Prompt
“Lord, guide us into humility and compassion. Keep us from the pitfalls of pride and arrogance. Help us always remember that all we have comes from you, and it is for Your glory we should use it. Amen.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What does it mean that God made Edom small among the nations?
Ans: It means God humbled them and reduced their prestige and influence because of their arrogance and cruelty.
Ques: What can we learn from Obadiah 1:2?
Ans: We can learn about God’s justice and mercy, and the dangers of pride and arrogance.
Ques: Who was Obadiah?
Ans: Obadiah was a prophet in the Old Testament whose name means ‘servant of the Lord.’
Ques: How can we apply this verse in our daily lives?
Ans: We can apply it by practicing humility and compassion, recognizing all we have comes from God, and using it for His glory.
Related Verses
James 4:6: “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
Just as God humbled Edom for its pride, so He gives grace to the humble.
Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
This verse echoes the warning of Obadiah 1:2 against pride and arrogance.
Matthew 23:12: “And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Jesus’ words here mirror the theme of God humbling the proud found in Obadiah.
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