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Knowing Obadiah: A Christian Women’s Bible Commentary
Bible commentary for womenExperience the excitement of Biblical prophecy with this down-to-earth and captivating exploration of 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.Purchase your copy now. Then read the rest of the series... A Fire and a FlameRead in any order.A Hope Fulfilled, a novella of biblical Edom and Obadiah's prophecy.Knowing Obadiah, a Christian women's Bible commentary. Experience the excitement of Biblical prophecy with this down-to-earth and captivating exploration of Obadiah.But in Mount Zion, a companion study for Knowing Obadiah. Apply the lessons of Obadiah to your life with this interactive workbook.Stay in touch.Sign up for April's NEWSLETTER at
183 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2023
7 people are currently reading
4 people want to read
About the author
April W. Gardner
22 books287 followersApril W Gardner is an award-winning biblical fiction author whose great passion is writing stories with little-known biblical figures and events. April lives in South Texas with her husband and two German shepherds. She's a beekeeper, a polyglot, and an avid traveler who dreams of visiting all the national parks.
You can find April at these locations:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
BookBub
You can find April at these locations:
Website
BookBub
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 6, 2024
This trilogy (A Fire and a Flame) came to my attention via Mesu Andrews' website.
This book is part two and it's a bible commentary.
The history teacher within wanted to know more about this period in history so that it would open up one of the shortest books in the bible - Obadiah, weighing in 440 words in 21 verses!
I got more than I imagined! I LOVE how this guide is presented. Gardner's sense of humour and her attention to detail made this a JOY. I'll be honest and tell you that it requires more of my time than one read-through - I'll make time for a second or a third.
Obadiah’s words contain wisdom for us and have relevant application as we read it in context.
If you are hesitant about studying this Old Testiment book, Gardner’s materials make delving into this history accessible.
This book is part two and it's a bible commentary.
The history teacher within wanted to know more about this period in history so that it would open up one of the shortest books in the bible - Obadiah, weighing in 440 words in 21 verses!
I got more than I imagined! I LOVE how this guide is presented. Gardner's sense of humour and her attention to detail made this a JOY. I'll be honest and tell you that it requires more of my time than one read-through - I'll make time for a second or a third.
Obadiah’s words contain wisdom for us and have relevant application as we read it in context.
If you are hesitant about studying this Old Testiment book, Gardner’s materials make delving into this history accessible.
May 24, 2024
This Bible study book explores the short prophetic book of Obadiah, taking readers through pertinent sections of the Old Testament and connecting them to this prophecy and to his contemporaries. I had not realized how his biblical treatise was so connected to the history of Jacob and Esau and their descendants. The author presents the material in an easy-to-understand manner with teaching that feels like she comes alongside and studies with you rather than lecturing or didactic. You can tell she put much time into studying and compiling the text. Readers may just gain some new biblical insights and facts from the nineteen chapters of this study. It could be used by individuals or in a group. This is a book I will probably go through again more thoroughly together with its accompanying study, But in Mount Zion, which I am now reading. This book is also on Kindle Unlimited. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
June 7, 2024
Written in a casual, conversational voice, this book digs into the book of Obadiah's history and original meaning. For a study book, it is a pretty easy and unintimidating read. I am not quite finished yet, but I am learning from it and enjoying the journey. Interesting fact, this book actually has two others in its "series:" a companion study, called But in Mount Zion, and a fiction novella, called Hope Fulfilled. I love the idea of providing these different formats for learning. I am working through the study while reading this one (which is why I'm not quite done), and I would love to read through the novella when I am done.
A little background about my family: my husband is currently studying through the Bible, starting with Genesis. When I started reading Knowing Obadiah, I told him he might want to look at it when he gets to the book of Obadiah because it approaches the book the way he has been, from a historical and cultural view point. After reading more, I realized that this is sort of written addressed to women; however, that doesn't mean men can't learn something from it as well. I do think the casual/ more intimate voice allows for women to feel like sitting down with their friends and sisters for a weekly small group time.
I think this would be a good resource for your library, especially because it addresses a minor prophet, that maybe, we all need to learn a little more about!
A little background about my family: my husband is currently studying through the Bible, starting with Genesis. When I started reading Knowing Obadiah, I told him he might want to look at it when he gets to the book of Obadiah because it approaches the book the way he has been, from a historical and cultural view point. After reading more, I realized that this is sort of written addressed to women; however, that doesn't mean men can't learn something from it as well. I do think the casual/ more intimate voice allows for women to feel like sitting down with their friends and sisters for a weekly small group time.
I think this would be a good resource for your library, especially because it addresses a minor prophet, that maybe, we all need to learn a little more about!
May 25, 2024
It’s amazing how much is garnered from “Knowing Obadiah, ” commentary, research, and study of the brief (21 verses) Old Testament book of Obadiah. I’ve done other studies in the past, but this one has a different flair to it. I love the conversational tone of this thoughtful study on this Bible book of judgement and hope.
The tone of this book is fun. It almost feels like the script to a play, introducing characters, timelines, maps, and such. And there are pop quizzes at the end of each chapter for reflection and review
I enjoyed this commentary and exploration of Obadiah, a book of judgement and hope.
15The day of the Lord is near for all nations.
As you have done, it will be done to you;
your deeds will return upon your own head.
17 But on Mount Zion will be deliverance;
it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance.
First Line (Introduction): In late December 2021, while deciding on a Bible reading goal for the upcoming year, I pondered which sections of the Bible I knew least.
Series: A Fire and a Flame, book 3
Genre: Christian Bible History
Author: April W. Gardner
Page Count: 210
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
The tone of this book is fun. It almost feels like the script to a play, introducing characters, timelines, maps, and such. And there are pop quizzes at the end of each chapter for reflection and review
I enjoyed this commentary and exploration of Obadiah, a book of judgement and hope.
15The day of the Lord is near for all nations.
As you have done, it will be done to you;
your deeds will return upon your own head.
17 But on Mount Zion will be deliverance;
it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance.
First Line (Introduction): In late December 2021, while deciding on a Bible reading goal for the upcoming year, I pondered which sections of the Bible I knew least.
Series: A Fire and a Flame, book 3
Genre: Christian Bible History
Author: April W. Gardner
Page Count: 210
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
May 29, 2024
I’m reading through the Bible and when I do that, the prophets always loom ahead of me like these big mountains: I know I’m going to have to cross them, but I know it’s not going to be easy. So when I saw a commentary on Obadiah up for review, it was easy to say yes. I didn’t realize that Obadiah is a really short book; just one chapter, 21 verses. But it’s still full of things that seem pretty impenetrable on the surface.
I really enjoyed April Gardner’s book on Obadiah! She’s just a “regular person” pretty much, who decided to dive into Obadiah. She lays things out in a very clear, organized way, and she adds in touches of humor and real life that are a nice contrast to the heavy nature of the study. She mentions a way she had decided to take on the minor prophets; taking one at a time and reading it repeatedly for a month in order for its message to become clearer. I liked this idea and may try it.
I am so glad to have read this study, and the picture of Obadiah as a relative unknown who kept the message about God rather than himself, and the story of Edom/Esau, will stick with me for a long time. Recommended, and I hope April writes similar studies on more of the minor prophets.
I really enjoyed April Gardner’s book on Obadiah! She’s just a “regular person” pretty much, who decided to dive into Obadiah. She lays things out in a very clear, organized way, and she adds in touches of humor and real life that are a nice contrast to the heavy nature of the study. She mentions a way she had decided to take on the minor prophets; taking one at a time and reading it repeatedly for a month in order for its message to become clearer. I liked this idea and may try it.
I am so glad to have read this study, and the picture of Obadiah as a relative unknown who kept the message about God rather than himself, and the story of Edom/Esau, will stick with me for a long time. Recommended, and I hope April writes similar studies on more of the minor prophets.
June 1, 2024
As someone who has grown up in the church, it is almost embarrassing to say that I know very little of the minor prophets. I know they’re there, that they have a purpose, that they are “mouthpieces of God”, but after that, I know nothing. What are they prophesying and who do they prophesy to? No idea. Most of them, if I’d have to guess, would be are prophesying to Israel about their sin and judgement…anyways, so when I saw this study, I was intrigued. I had absolutely no idea about what Obadiah was about. Honestly, I had even forgotten that Obadiah existed. Or was even a name.
Ok, but after reading this book, there is absolutely no excuse for me not to dive into the minor prophets. Obadiah is an incredibly short book–only 21 verses–but packed full with so much information and history, and it even includes prophecies that have not yet come to pass to this day. And, of course, it points to the coming of Jesus Christ.
And, even though I grew up in the church, I had no idea just how linked together the Bible was. Gardener takes us through Obadiah, yes, but the context behind Obadiah is found in Genesis with Esau and Jacob. And if that’s not enough, we find references of similar prophecies in Jeremiah and even Amos. Isn’t that so cool just how connected the Bible actually is?
Gardner pours so much research and insight into this study, including referencing archaeological digs and finds that backs up the prophecies found in Obadiah.
This study is easy to read but boy does it pack a punch. So much information, so much history, so much of God’s glory revealed in just 21 verses of the Bible. It’s crazy and fascinating all at the same time. I will 100% be wanting to get the companion study to Knowing Obadiah, called But in Mount Zion, as a way to look even deeper into this often overlooked book of the Bible.
Anyways, I would highly recommend this book, especially if you’re like me and have no idea what in the world Obadiah could even possibly be about.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
Ok, but after reading this book, there is absolutely no excuse for me not to dive into the minor prophets. Obadiah is an incredibly short book–only 21 verses–but packed full with so much information and history, and it even includes prophecies that have not yet come to pass to this day. And, of course, it points to the coming of Jesus Christ.
And, even though I grew up in the church, I had no idea just how linked together the Bible was. Gardener takes us through Obadiah, yes, but the context behind Obadiah is found in Genesis with Esau and Jacob. And if that’s not enough, we find references of similar prophecies in Jeremiah and even Amos. Isn’t that so cool just how connected the Bible actually is?
Gardner pours so much research and insight into this study, including referencing archaeological digs and finds that backs up the prophecies found in Obadiah.
This study is easy to read but boy does it pack a punch. So much information, so much history, so much of God’s glory revealed in just 21 verses of the Bible. It’s crazy and fascinating all at the same time. I will 100% be wanting to get the companion study to Knowing Obadiah, called But in Mount Zion, as a way to look even deeper into this often overlooked book of the Bible.
Anyways, I would highly recommend this book, especially if you’re like me and have no idea what in the world Obadiah could even possibly be about.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
May 21, 2024
A Christian Women’s Bible Commentary
Experience the excitement of Biblical prophecy with this down-to-earth and captivating exploration of 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.
My Thoughts:
The author has done an excellent job taking the reader through the book of Obadiah. The author has a truly friendly and fun way of getting the reader into the Bible and studying to learn.
It is a combination of a commentary and a Bible study, which I found very helpful and interesting. The author has done a great amount of research and is an excellent teacher, she digs deep into the book, looks into all aspects and history of the book. She has a wonderful way of conveying God's word to the readers. This was a very enjoyable read. I certainly look forward to seeing more from this author and highly recommend this book.
Experience the excitement of Biblical prophecy with this down-to-earth and captivating exploration of 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.
My Thoughts:
The author has done an excellent job taking the reader through the book of Obadiah. The author has a truly friendly and fun way of getting the reader into the Bible and studying to learn.
It is a combination of a commentary and a Bible study, which I found very helpful and interesting. The author has done a great amount of research and is an excellent teacher, she digs deep into the book, looks into all aspects and history of the book. She has a wonderful way of conveying God's word to the readers. This was a very enjoyable read. I certainly look forward to seeing more from this author and highly recommend this book.
May 31, 2024
Knowing Obadiah by April W Gardner is a Bible Commentary for women centering around Obadiah. It is part of a three-book series that includes a companion, “But in Mount Zion,” and a fiction novella called “Hope Fulfilled.” I feel these three books go hand in hand. However, you could do this study on its own.
I love how the author writes in a more conversational style. Even though the topic is studied in depth, the inclusion of humor and the casual conversational style make you feel as though you were sitting at a kitchen table with April W. Gardner.
This study is perfect for individual or group Bible study. The writing style lends itself to a group study. I loved how April W. Gardner described Obadiah as one of the “minor prophets.” As someone who has read the Bible several times, I have read the book of Obadiah, but I have still learned a lot from this study.
So, if you are looking for a Bible Commentary for Women, check out Knowing Obadiah by April W Gardner. Whether you elect to do it individually or with a group, I believe this study belongs in your library.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
I love how the author writes in a more conversational style. Even though the topic is studied in depth, the inclusion of humor and the casual conversational style make you feel as though you were sitting at a kitchen table with April W. Gardner.
This study is perfect for individual or group Bible study. The writing style lends itself to a group study. I loved how April W. Gardner described Obadiah as one of the “minor prophets.” As someone who has read the Bible several times, I have read the book of Obadiah, but I have still learned a lot from this study.
So, if you are looking for a Bible Commentary for Women, check out Knowing Obadiah by April W Gardner. Whether you elect to do it individually or with a group, I believe this study belongs in your library.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2024
This commentary by Gardner is unlike any I have ever read before, in a good way. She has no theological degree so her book is more like friends discussing the Scripture over a cup of tea. There is some great humor included, again making this commentary so unusual but a pleasure to read.
Gardner starts out by explaining what is not known about Obadiah, like who is is or when he wrote. She then digs deep to reveal the possible history and culture behind the book. We get a good dose of the story of Jacob and Esau, setting the stage for the judgment on Edom. She includes relevant material from Jeremiah too.
I like that the KJV text of Obadiah is included so this commentary can be studied without a companion Bible needed. Gardner provides a link to additional resources that can be downloaded too. I recommend this conversational style commentary. It's a great resource for anyone wanting to understand the meaning and impact of this minor prophet.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Gardner starts out by explaining what is not known about Obadiah, like who is is or when he wrote. She then digs deep to reveal the possible history and culture behind the book. We get a good dose of the story of Jacob and Esau, setting the stage for the judgment on Edom. She includes relevant material from Jeremiah too.
I like that the KJV text of Obadiah is included so this commentary can be studied without a companion Bible needed. Gardner provides a link to additional resources that can be downloaded too. I recommend this conversational style commentary. It's a great resource for anyone wanting to understand the meaning and impact of this minor prophet.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
June 1, 2024
I really enjoy Biblical Non-Fiction books that are written for Women. Knowing Obadiah: a Christian Women’s Bible Commentary by April W. Gardner is the latest in this genre that I had an opportunity to read.
The author, April W. Gardner, has taken a different and unique approach with this Bible Study book for Women. The Book of Obadiah has only 1 Chapter and only 21 verses. The author really created a wonderful Study and the book contains 19 chapters. The focus on Jacob and Esau was very interesting to me. I usually have a hard time focusing on Bible Study books, but due to the author using a more Conversational way of writing and the humor included in this book, I really focused and learned from this study. I also like that the author included "Pop Quizzes" at the end of each chapter. I many times felt like I was sitting next to the author as I was reading. I HIGHLY recommend this study for anyone who is looking for a short but extremely informative study. FANTASTIC BOOK!
The author, April W. Gardner, has taken a different and unique approach with this Bible Study book for Women. The Book of Obadiah has only 1 Chapter and only 21 verses. The author really created a wonderful Study and the book contains 19 chapters. The focus on Jacob and Esau was very interesting to me. I usually have a hard time focusing on Bible Study books, but due to the author using a more Conversational way of writing and the humor included in this book, I really focused and learned from this study. I also like that the author included "Pop Quizzes" at the end of each chapter. I many times felt like I was sitting next to the author as I was reading. I HIGHLY recommend this study for anyone who is looking for a short but extremely informative study. FANTASTIC BOOK!
June 6, 2024
There is something about reading a book based on a Biblical figure that gets me ready to dive in. I love learning new things that I might not have noticed before in the chapters but I always find myself wanting to dig deeper. This book is a good read and the author delivers a realistic look at a prophet many may not know much about.
I like how the book is filled with historical facts that closely follow the scriptures. This is a great book to use as a Bible study or in a group setting. It is laid out in a way that is easy to follow and interactive for readers to ponder on what they read. Obadiah wasn’t talked about much in the Bible but the impact made by him was felt by many. I have decided to reread the book again and go slower so I don’t miss any details.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I like how the book is filled with historical facts that closely follow the scriptures. This is a great book to use as a Bible study or in a group setting. It is laid out in a way that is easy to follow and interactive for readers to ponder on what they read. Obadiah wasn’t talked about much in the Bible but the impact made by him was felt by many. I have decided to reread the book again and go slower so I don’t miss any details.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
May 24, 2024
I enjoyed this study by author April Gardner. We learn about what we don’t know and what is possible history. With maps, photos, and supporting scripture it is a well thought out and researched book. There’s even “seatwork” at the end of each chapter to enhance what was just read. Are you ready for a pop quiz?
Gardner wrote this in a chatty style, as if having coffee and study with a friend. I would have preferred a bit less of that. Sometimes I felt as if she were speaking to a teenage girl instead of a grown woman. However, that’s just me. You may love it.
If you enjoy in depth studies on lesser known books of the Bible do grab a copy of Knowing Obadiah.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Gardner wrote this in a chatty style, as if having coffee and study with a friend. I would have preferred a bit less of that. Sometimes I felt as if she were speaking to a teenage girl instead of a grown woman. However, that’s just me. You may love it.
If you enjoy in depth studies on lesser known books of the Bible do grab a copy of Knowing Obadiah.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
May 27, 2024
This book is a study of the Biblical book of Obadiah. It has lots of Scripture references. it also has some humor from the author. There are questions and pop quizzes though out the book. The author shares the story of Jacob and Esau which is the start of the judgement on Edom and includes the Book of Jeremiah and lots of resources that can be downloaded. There were times while reading the book i felt like she was actually talking to me especially when she was sharing about buying and hiding the candy in the cart. She includes all 21 verses of Obadiah after the introduction.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opionions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opionions are my own.
October 5, 2024
Wonderful story of a much overlooked book in the Bible. I loved the historical research applicable that was used to put the prophecy in context. I also loved the applicable lessons for today.
April 19, 2024
I loved how April W Gardner was able to bring to life the story of Obadiah's prophecy in her Knowing Obadiah: And the Kingdom Shall Be the Lord's. This commentary is broken down into five parts that contains what the author's thoughts and imagery of this Biblical story. It includes scripture, key verses, pop quizzes, resources, historical details, maps, graphs, illustrations, reading, and recommendations. I thought it was great book to read and I was intrigued about learning about those centered around Obadiah's prophecy.
I give Knowing Obadiah: And the Kingdom Shall Be the Lord's five stars. I highly recommend it for fans of Christian Commentary. I am looking forward to more books from April W Gardner.
I received a paperback copy of April W Gardner's Knowing Obadiah: And the Kingdom Shall Be the Lord's from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I give Knowing Obadiah: And the Kingdom Shall Be the Lord's five stars. I highly recommend it for fans of Christian Commentary. I am looking forward to more books from April W Gardner.
I received a paperback copy of April W Gardner's Knowing Obadiah: And the Kingdom Shall Be the Lord's from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
May 18, 2024
I have read through this study of Obadiah two times now. The first time, I worked through it slowly, using the workbook, But in Mount Zion, alongside it. This time I just read through it from cover to cover to refresh my memory. I really liked both ways of going through it. The first way helped me to get a an in-depth view of Obadiah, his times and what was happening in Edom. This time, I got a quick overview and could see better how the whole study held together. I think I would recommend doing it the other way around, reading through the whole thing quickly and then going back through slowly as a study. This study is great for anyone who wants to understand this minor prophet better, or who wants to learn more about God.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
June 3, 2024
Loved this commentary! It was very conversational and informative. I learned so much studying Obadiah. Sometimes these small prophetic books get looked over, but there’s a lot to unpack in them. I had read Obadiah through before, but never really paused to study it. Thanks to this book it gave me an opportunity to dig deeper into the book. I would highly recommend this book if you want to dive deeper into Obadiah. There is an accompanying Bible study book, which I plan to get and go through as well soon, but if you don’t have it you can still get so much from just this little commentary!
**I received this book as part of the CelebrateLit blog team. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
**I received this book as part of the CelebrateLit blog team. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews