Book of Ezekiel: Chapter 39
In this chapter of Ezekiel, God continues to speak through the prophet, using him to bring a message to the leader Gog and his nation. This message is one of death and destruction. They are told they will ally with neighboring neighbors and march to destroy Israel. But this prophesy of a coming battle turns into a message of hope and restoration for the beleaguered Israel.
In its typical fashion, this chapter of Ezekiel is broken into two portions. The first portion continues the message that started in the previous chapter. God is using Ezekiel to bring a message to the leader Gog — an evil force who will try to command his nation and others to strike against Israel. In this particular message, God is conveying that this battle will be final and complete. This evil entity will be slaughtered by the Lord, ultimately showing the world who is the true God.
The second portion of this chapter brings another optimistic message to Israel. Throughout Ezekiel many messages convey Israel’s demise. Israel’s demise through the hands of King Nebuchadnezzar will ultimately be redeemed. God promises in this message that the entirety of Israel will be reunited through His grace. Despite how many times Israel has turned their back on God, He will always be there for His people.
Key Verses:
“When I bring them home from the lands of their enemies, I will display my holiness among them for all the nations to see. Then my people will know that I am the Lord their God, because I sent them away to exile and brought them home again.” ~ Ezekiel 39:27-28 NLT
Question to ponder:
- How is the theme of forgiveness present throughout the book of Ezekiel?
