OPENING UP OBADIAH
By Andrew Thompson
Day One. 96 pages. £5
ISBN 978 1 846 255 526
This slim volume is another in the ‘Opening Up’ series of Bible Commentaries published by Day One.
It is a very thorough exposition of the Book of Obadiah, without being unnecessarily ‘wordy’ or padded out with anecdotes or personal illustrations. His task is to explain the Word of God, which he does admirably, comparing Scripture with Scripture throughout.
Accessible
The author is a serving pastor, which becomes evident in the warm, pastoral tone of his writing. In terms of the readership, it is very accessible for the average reader, for newer Christians as well as for mature believers. This commentary, as with all of the titles in this series, is ideally suited for personal devotions. Indeed, I think that this is one of its greatest strengths. The chapters are not long or too detailed or academic, and ideal for daily readings. It would also be very useful as a book to work through in small groups, for example in house groups, or even one-to-one in mentoring or accountability groups. Of real benefit with this series, as with this particular volume, are the two sets of questions at the end of each chapter: ‘For Further Study’, and ‘To Think About and Discuss’.
Dealing, as Obadiah does, with the judgment of God upon Edom, we are brought face to face with God’s unrelenting holiness. But the author also reminds us throughout of the gospel, and points us to the judgment borne by our Lord Jesus Christ.
I very warmly recommend this book as really helpful for all Christians, at whatever stage and accessible, I would suggest, for older teens. It would also be a useful resource on the preacher’s bookshelf.
