ARE WICKED RULERS AND NATIONS JUDGED? Or, Six Realities that Vladimir Putin Doesn’t Know

July 01, 2022

In each generation there are wicked rulers leading nations to do wicked things, oppressing those around them with senseless violence and evil. Hitler had his day and Stalin, and now Putin as he ravages Ukraine.

Where is God in all of this? The small, one-chapter book of Obadiah gives us the answer: God will always, ultimately judge wicked men nations. Justice wins the day. Notice God’s word through Obadiah to the wicked nation of Edom. No nation that ignores God will escape His judgment.

1. IN YOUR PRIDE YOU THINK YOU’RE GREAT, BUT YOU WILL BE MADE SMALL.

“Behold, I will make you small among the nations … the arrogance of your heart has deceived you.” (vs. 2-3)

2. YOU THINK YOU CAN HIDE AND ESCAPE GOD’S JUDGMENT, BUT YOU CANNOT.

“Though you build high like the eagle, though you set your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,” says the Lord. (vs. 4)

3. BECAUSE OF YOUR VIOLENCE TO OTHERS, YOU WILL BE HUMILIATED AND CUT OFF FOREVER.

“Because of violence to your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame and you will be cut off forever.” (vs. 10)

4. THE DAY OF THE LORD IS COMING.

“For the day of the LORD draws near on all the nations. As you have done, it will be done to you.” (vs. 15)

5. THOSE WHO HAVE HUMBLY COME INTO GOD’S KINGDOM WILL ESCAPE

“But on Mount Zion there will be those who escape, and it will be holy.” (vs. 17)

6. GOD’S KINGDOM WILL PREVAIL AND HIS RULE OVER ALL WILL BE EVIDENT

“The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion to judge the mountain of Esau, and the kingdom will be the Lord’s.” (Vs. 21)

Evil men and nations will have their day. But in a brief period, all will be completely rectified. God’s righteousness and justice will always prevail. Always.

Father, thank you that there is a day coming when evil will be completely eradicated on your new heaven and earth. Wickedness will be judged and removed and those who know You will reign forever, and Your kingdom will have no end. Help me to trust You and faithfully serve You. And help me live to lead as many people into Your kingdom as possible!

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