Obadiah 1:21

The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion to rule over the mountains of Esau. And the kingdom will belong to the LORD.

Study Bible

The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion
This phrase refers to the leaders or saviors who will rise to bring about God's justice and restoration. Mount Zion, a significant location in Jerusalem, symbolizes God's holy presence and the center of His kingdom. Historically, Zion was the site of the Jebusite fortress captured by David, becoming the City of David. In a broader biblical context, Zion represents the spiritual kingdom of God. The ascent of deliverers to Zion signifies a divine appointment and empowerment to execute God's will. This imagery connects to the idea of God's chosen people being restored and elevated to a place of prominence and authority.

to rule over the mountains of Esau
The mountains of Esau refer to the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, Edom was located southeast of the Dead Sea, a region characterized by rugged terrain. The ruling over Edom signifies the subjugation of those who opposed Israel, fulfilling prophecies of judgment against Edom for their hostility towards the Israelites (see Amos 1:11-12, Isaiah 34:5-6). This phrase also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's justice prevailing over His enemies and the ultimate triumph of His people. The deliverers' rule over Edom symbolizes the reversal of fortunes and the establishment of God's order.

And the kingdom will belong to the LORD
This statement emphasizes the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations and kingdoms. It reflects the biblical theme of God's eternal dominion and the establishment of His kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. This echoes the prophetic visions found in Daniel 2:44 and Revelation 11:15, where God's kingdom is depicted as everlasting and supreme over all earthly powers. The phrase underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to His people and the culmination of His redemptive plan. It points to the eschatological hope of a future where God's rule is fully realized, and His justice and peace reign supreme.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Deliverers
These are the saviors or leaders who will ascend Mount Zion. In the context of Obadiah, they represent those who will bring about God's justice and restoration.

2. Mount Zion
A significant biblical location, often symbolizing God's holy presence and the center of His kingdom. It is a place of deliverance and divine rule.

3. Mountains of Esau
Refers to the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau. In the prophetic context, it symbolizes opposition to God's people and His kingdom.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is sovereign and whose kingdom will ultimately prevail.

5. The Kingdom
Represents God's ultimate rule and authority over all nations, emphasizing the eschatological hope of God's people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Obadiah 1:21 emphasizes that the ultimate authority and kingdom belong to the LORD. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God's plans will prevail despite current circumstances.

Role of Deliverers
The deliverers ascending Mount Zion symbolize God's use of His people to bring about justice and restoration. Christians are called to be agents of God's kingdom, promoting His justice and righteousness.

Judgment and Restoration
The judgment of the mountains of Esau signifies God's justice against those who oppose Him. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning with God's purposes and the hope of restoration for His people.

Eschatological Hope
The promise that "the kingdom will belong to the LORD" points to the future hope of God's complete reign. Believers are encouraged to live with an eternal perspective, anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of deliverers in Obadiah 1:21 relate to the role of believers today in advancing God's kingdom?

2. In what ways does Mount Zion serve as a symbol of hope and divine presence throughout the Bible?

3. How can understanding the judgment of the mountains of Esau help us navigate challenges and opposition in our own spiritual journey?

4. What practical steps can we take to align our lives with the truth that "the kingdom will belong to the LORD"?

5. How do the themes of judgment and restoration in Obadiah connect with the broader account of redemption found in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 2
This psalm speaks of God's anointed king and the establishment of His kingdom, echoing the theme of divine rule found in Obadiah.

Revelation 11:15
This verse proclaims the coming of God's kingdom, aligning with the prophetic vision of God's ultimate reign in Obadiah.

Isaiah 2:2-4
Describes the exaltation of Mount Zion and the establishment of God's rule, similar to the deliverance and judgment themes in Obadiah.