Can you explain the meaning of Obadiah 1:17?

Obadiah 1:17 states, "But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance." This verse is a pivotal promise within the Book of Obadiah, offering a message of hope and restoration amidst the prophet's pronouncements of judgment. To fully grasp its meaning, we must consider the broader context of Obadiah's prophecy, the historical backdrop, and the theological implications.

The Book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, consisting of only 21 verses. Despite its brevity, it conveys a powerful message of God's justice and sovereignty. Obadiah's prophecy is primarily directed against Edom, a nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel). The Edomites had a long history of enmity with the Israelites, and this animosity is a key element in Obadiah's message.

The historical context of Obadiah's prophecy is significant. It is generally believed that Obadiah was written after the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. During this period of Judah's devastation, the Edomites not only rejoiced over Jerusalem's fall but also participated in its plundering and even captured fleeing Israelites to hand them over to the Babylonians (Obadiah 1:10-14). This betrayal by Edom, a brother nation, elicited God's judgment through the prophet Obadiah.

Obadiah's prophecy can be divided into two main sections: the judgment against Edom (verses 1-16) and the restoration of Israel (verses 17-21). Verse 17 marks a transition from the former to the latter, highlighting a stark contrast between the fate of Edom and the destiny of Israel.

"But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance."

This verse encapsulates three key themes: deliverance, holiness, and inheritance.

Deliverance: The promise of deliverance on Mount Zion is a profound assurance of salvation and rescue for the people of Israel. Mount Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, represents the spiritual and political center of the Jewish nation. In the context of Obadiah, deliverance signifies God's intervention to save His people from their oppressors. This deliverance is not merely a physical rescue but also a spiritual redemption. It echoes the broader biblical theme of God's salvation history, where He consistently delivers His people from bondage and oppression.

The concept of deliverance on Mount Zion is also prophetic, pointing forward to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Mount Zion is often associated with the heavenly Jerusalem and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan (Hebrews 12:22-24). Thus, Obadiah 1:17 can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance that would come through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection.

Holiness: The declaration that Mount Zion "will be holy" emphasizes the sanctity and consecration of God's dwelling place. Holiness, in the biblical sense, denotes being set apart for God's purposes. For Israel, holiness entailed living in accordance with God's covenant and commandments. The desecration of Jerusalem by foreign invaders and the unfaithfulness of the Israelites had compromised this holiness. However, God's promise through Obadiah is that Mount Zion will be restored to its sacred status.

This restoration of holiness is not limited to a physical location but extends to the people of God. In the New Testament, believers are called to be holy, as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). The church, as the body of Christ, is described as a holy temple in the Lord (Ephesians 2:21). Therefore, Obadiah's prophecy has enduring relevance, reminding us of our call to holiness and the transformative power of God's grace.

Inheritance: The promise that "Jacob will possess his inheritance" speaks to the restoration of the land and blessings that God had promised to the descendants of Jacob (Israel). The concept of inheritance is deeply rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God promised Abraham and his descendants the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession (Genesis 17:8). Throughout Israel's history, the land was not just a physical territory but a symbol of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

In the immediate context of Obadiah, the inheritance refers to the restoration of the land to the Israelites after their exile. Despite the devastation and displacement caused by the Babylonian conquest, God assures His people that they will reclaim their inheritance. This promise would have been a source of immense hope and encouragement to the exiled Israelites.

Moreover, the concept of inheritance transcends the physical land and encompasses the spiritual blessings that come from being in a covenant relationship with God. In the New Testament, believers in Christ are described as heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). This inheritance includes eternal life, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the fullness of God's kingdom. Thus, Obadiah 1:17 points to the ultimate inheritance that awaits all who are in Christ.

Theological Implications: Obadiah 1:17 carries profound theological implications that resonate with the overarching narrative of Scripture. It underscores God's justice in dealing with the wicked and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. The judgment against Edom serves as a reminder that God will hold nations accountable for their actions, especially when they oppress His people. Conversely, the promise of deliverance, holiness, and inheritance for Israel highlights God's unwavering commitment to His covenant.

The verse also reflects the tension between judgment and mercy that is prevalent throughout the Bible. While God judges the wicked, He also extends mercy and restoration to those who repent and seek Him. This dual aspect of God's character is beautifully captured in the prophecy of Obadiah.

Furthermore, Obadiah 1:17 invites believers to reflect on their own spiritual journey. Just as Israel experienced deliverance, holiness, and inheritance, we too are called to experience these realities in Christ. Our deliverance comes through faith in Jesus, who rescues us from the bondage of sin and death. We are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes, and to embrace our inheritance as children of God.

In conclusion, Obadiah 1:17 is a verse rich with meaning and significance. It offers a message of hope and restoration to a people devastated by exile and betrayal. It points to the ultimate deliverance and inheritance that God promises to His people through Jesus Christ. As we meditate on this verse, may we be reminded of God's faithfulness, His call to holiness, and the glorious inheritance that awaits us in His kingdom.