Chapter 34 opens with a call to all the world to hearken, since all nations have to face the judgments of God, which will reach even to “the host of heaven”, since there is to be that conflict in the heavens of which we read in Revelation 12:7-87And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. (Revelation 12:7‑8); and as a result Satan will lose his foothold there and be confined in his fury to earth. But in a very special manner the sword of the Lord will come down upon Idumea; that is, upon Esau in his descendants, who are specially under the curse.
In the last Old Testament book we find God saying that He hated Esau; and one of the Minor Prophets, Obadiah, is entirely occupied with predictions against him. Here we find the same thing, and we are told in verse 8 that vengeance falls upon them in recompence for “the controversy of Zion.” In Zion God elected to have mercy upon Jacob, whereas Edom pursued them with undying hatred, as we see in Psalm 83:3-63They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones. 4They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance. 5For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against thee: 6The tabernacles of Edom, and the Ishmaelites; of Moab, and the Hagarenes; (Psalm 83:3‑6). In result, judgments of special severity will fall on the land of Idumea, and the rest of chapter 34 gives us the solemn details of it.
Preliminary movements, which will lead to all this, are taking place today. Israel now has a footing in their own land, yet among the thousands are but few “just and devout”, as was Simeon of old. There are all too many “sinners in Zion” who would be afraid. The sons of Esau and Ishmael surround them in very antagonistic and aggressive mood. Who can tell what may soon happen? But we can tell from this scripture what will ultimately come to pass, and how God will intervene in judgment.
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