The book of Obadiah is the tale of two brothers — Jacob and Esau. During the time of writing, the prophet noted the injustices done by the Edomites (descendants of Esau) against the Israelites (descendants of Jacob). God was moved when he saw his people suffering because of the indifference of the Edomites to the sorry plight of their brothers. Suffice it to say that God did not like that to the Edomites, family relations was not enough to help Israel.
History reveals the source of this conflict, yet as to why God chose Jacob over Esau, we will never know. God’s election is never out of merit, it is purely by grace.
God chooses whom He chooses, for though Jacob cheated and outsmarted his brother Esau, God remained with the former, while Esau’s line was cut off. God promised to restore the house of Jacob, and fulfilled His covenant with Him ultimately through Jesus Christ.
