Ezekiel 11:16

Therefore declare that this is what the Lord GOD says: 'Although I sent them far away among the nations and scattered them among the countries, yet for a little while I have been a sanctuary for them in the countries to which they have gone.'

Study Bible

Therefore tell them
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for "tell" is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to speak or declare. This highlights the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, emphasizing the importance of delivering God's message accurately and faithfully. In the historical context, Ezekiel is addressing the exiled Israelites, providing them with divine communication that offers both judgment and hope.

this is what the Lord GOD says
The phrase underscores the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew term "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh) is used here, combining the titles of Lord and God, which emphasizes His supreme power and covenantal relationship with Israel. This declaration assures the exiles that the message comes directly from the highest authority, reinforcing the seriousness and reliability of the prophecy.

Although I sent them far away among the nations
This part of the verse acknowledges God's active role in the dispersion of the Israelites. The Hebrew verb "שָׁלַח" (shalach) means to send or dispatch, indicating that the exile was not merely a consequence of political events but a divine act of judgment. Historically, this refers to the Babylonian exile, a pivotal event in Jewish history that served as both punishment and a means for spiritual refinement.

and scattered them among the countries
The word "scattered" comes from the Hebrew "זָרָה" (zarah), which conveys the idea of dispersing or spreading out. This scattering was a fulfillment of the covenant curses outlined in Deuteronomy for disobedience. Yet, it also set the stage for the eventual gathering and restoration, demonstrating God's control over history and His ability to use even dispersion for His purposes.

yet for a little while
This phrase offers a glimmer of hope amidst judgment. The Hebrew "מְעַט" (me'at) suggests a limited duration, implying that the exile is temporary. It reassures the exiles that their suffering has an end, aligning with the biblical theme of God's mercy and the promise of restoration.

I have been a sanctuary for them
The term "sanctuary" in Hebrew is "מִקְדָּשׁ" (miqdash), which traditionally refers to a holy place or temple. Here, it signifies God's presence and protection among the exiles, even in foreign lands. This concept is revolutionary, as it shifts the understanding of God's presence from a physical temple to a spiritual reality, prefiguring the New Testament teaching of God dwelling within believers.

in the countries where they have gone
This phrase emphasizes God's omnipresence and His ability to be with His people regardless of geographical location. It reassures the exiles that they are not abandoned, and God's covenantal faithfulness extends beyond the borders of Israel. This truth is foundational for understanding God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites, often involving visions and symbolic acts.

2. The Exiles
The Israelites who have been taken captive and scattered among various nations due to their disobedience and idolatry.

3. Babylon
The primary location of the Israelite exile, representing both a place of punishment and a place where God continues to work with His people.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign deity who speaks through Ezekiel, emphasizing His control over the events and His continued presence with His people.

5. Sanctuary
A term used to describe God's presence and protection, even when the physical temple in Jerusalem is inaccessible to the exiles.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Exile
Even in judgment, God remains in control. The scattering of the Israelites was part of His divine plan, and He uses it to refine and teach His people.

God as a Sanctuary
God's presence is not confined to a physical location. He is a sanctuary for His people wherever they are, offering protection, comfort, and guidance.

Hope in God's Promises
Despite the circumstances, God promises restoration and hope. Believers can trust in His faithfulness and look forward to His ultimate redemption.

Living Faithfully in Exile
Like the exiles, Christians are called to live faithfully in a world that is not their home, seeking the welfare of their communities while maintaining their distinct identity in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God as a sanctuary change your perspective on difficult circumstances you face today?

2. In what ways can you seek the welfare of your community, as the exiles were instructed to do in Jeremiah 29?

3. How does the concept of exile relate to the Christian experience of living in a world that is not our ultimate home?

4. What are some practical ways you can remind yourself of God's presence and promises when you feel distant from Him?

5. How can the hope of restoration and God's faithfulness in Ezekiel 11:16 encourage you in your personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:4-7
Jeremiah's letter to the exiles encourages them to seek the welfare of the city where they are exiled, showing God's continued care and purpose for them even in a foreign land.

Psalm 90:1
This psalm speaks of God as a dwelling place for His people throughout generations, reinforcing the idea of God being a sanctuary regardless of physical location.

Hebrews 13:14
This verse reminds believers that they are looking for a city to come, paralleling the exiles' hope for restoration and God's ultimate promise of a heavenly home.