Obadiah: A Message of God's Justice

Introduction:

So called "pro-choice" people argue that every woman has the right to choose whether or not to abort her unborn child. Yet the mother, physically and emotionally, is a victim too - often to a far greater extent than most of us realize. Many women facing crisis pregnancies come under an overwhelming amount of pressure to abort their babies; and many feel they have nowhere to turn for help. This sets the stage for these women to be exploited.
We need to state up front that people who haven't been involved in or advocated for abortion are sinners in need of a Savior every bit as much as those who are involved in the aborition industry. In condemning pride, we must not become prideful ourselves. Yet we still must uphold the sanctity of human life, calling sin just what it is. What is God's response to arrogance, especially at the expense of innocent victims? How should we respond?

Background Passage:

Obadiah 1-21

What this lesson is about:

This lesson is about God's response to arrogance and pride, especially at the expense of innocent victims, and how we should respond to similar injustices.

Why this lesson is important:

How should we respond when people are treated unfairly? This is a question that many Christians have yet to answer. God sees the plight of the oppressed and acts on their behalf, and He calls on His people to do the same. We must be willing to help others in need who can't help or speak for themselves.

How this lesson can impact your life:

This lesson will encourage you to humbly take an active part in helping others in times of need, especially when they have been victimized.

Important questions as you read:

1. In what ways do people today often ignore God or fail to listen to Him? What are some consequences of such action (and inaction)?
2. How does the parable of the good Samaritan in Luck 10:25-37 relate to this week's study?
3. What are some ways God works through leaders today to do His will? How can you encourage your church leaders?

The Life Word

Pride is the attempt of a person to see himself as "high and lifted up" when only God fits that description (Isa 6:1). God hates pride and arrogance (Prov 8:13). He says, "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall" (16:18). When we are humble, as Jesus was (Phil 2:5-8), we are far more likely to be sensitive and responsive to the needs of people around us.

*This lesson is taken directly from LifeWay Adults Personal Study Guide Winter 2012-13, LifeWords: Bible Studies for Life (KJV), January 20, 2013, pages 66-73.