Title: Knowing Obadiah / But in Mount Zion
Author: April W Gardner
Series: A Fire and a Flame
Major Themes: Bible Studies, Ancient Israel
Synopsis: Read these two companion studies of the book of Obadiah, and you’ll never read it the same way again!
Several months ago, I noticed that April W Gardner was asking for reviewers for her first Biblical fiction novel, A Hope Fulfilled. I offered to help her out, and along with that book, she sent ebooks of Knowing Obadiah and a companion study guide, But in Mount Zion. I decided to work my way through this study of the book of Obadiah for my morning quiet time. I read Knowing Obadiah, and when I reached a place where the instruction was given to work through the study guide, I switched to it.
Publisher’s description:
Knowing Obadiah: Walk with author April W Gardner as she steps into the past and brings to life the often-overlooked prophecy of Obadiah. With her typical attention to historical detail, April journeys through Scripture in a down-to-earth and engaging manner. From Jacob and Esau to the terrifying Babylonian siege of Jerusalem and the blazing destruction of Edom, she learns alongside her readers how these 21 verses affirm God’s sovereignty while pointing to a steadfast hope in Zion.
But in Mount Zion offers an interactive and reflective experience for readers to engage with the commentary and dive deeper into the book of Obadiah.
Through thought-provoking questions, exercises, and group discussion prompts, the workbook provides readers and teachers the tools to apply the lessons from Obadiah to their own lives. It also includes suggestions for further study, making it an excellent resource for Bible study groups or individual study.
Whether you’re a seasoned Bible scholar or a new believer, this set will help you deepen your understanding of Obadiah and its message.
My thoughts:
I found this study, using both books, very informative and encouraging. I have just read through Knowing Obadiah for the second time and am even more impressed with it than the first time I went through it. I really enjoyed learning more about the history of Edom and its relationship with Israel. I liked the way April Gardner related these ancient stories to us and our lives today. I also really appreciated the way she pointed to Jesus and showed that no matter what a person or group of people has done, if they repent, Jesus is more than ready to forgive and wipe out the past. The study is for anyone who wants to know more about this shortest of the minor prophets, or the history of God’s chosen people, or simply wants to get a better grasp of how God keeps his promises and carries out His plan.
On my second read through But in Mount Zion, this time without going back and forth between it and Knowing Obadiah, I was struck with the author’s emphasis on me, the reader. How do these ancient writings and prophecies apply to my life? What does God want of me and have for me? This is quite an intense study. I wouldn’t recommend trying to do it without going through the other book, though. These two books are best used as a set, in my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
WARNING: Mentions of the atrocities committed by the Assyrians.
Age levels:
Reading Independently—Ages 15 and Above, Adults
Links to buy these books:
Knowing Obadiah:
Amazon: Paperback | Kindle
AbeBooks: View Choices on AbeBooks.com
But in Mount Zion:
Amazon: Paperback | Kindle
AbeBooks: View Choices on AbeBooks.com
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