Ezekiel 12:19

Then tell the people of the land that this is what the Lord GOD says about those living in Jerusalem and in the land of Israel: 'They will eat their bread with anxiety and drink their water in dread, for their land will be stripped of everything in it because of the violence of all who dwell in it.

Study Bible

Then tell the people of the land
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Ezekiel, emphasizing the role of the prophet as a messenger. The "people of the land" refers to the Israelites, specifically those in exile. Historically, this was a time of great turmoil and uncertainty for the Israelites, as they were living in Babylonian captivity. The Hebrew word for "land" (אֶרֶץ, eretz) often signifies not just physical territory but also the people and their covenant relationship with God. This phrase underscores the importance of delivering God's message to His chosen people, reminding them of their identity and responsibilities despite their current circumstances.

This is what the Lord GOD says
This declaration affirms the divine authority behind the message. The use of "Lord GOD" (אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה, Adonai Yahweh) combines the sovereign title "Adonai" with the personal name of God, "Yahweh," highlighting both His lordship and covenantal faithfulness. In a historical context, this would reassure the Israelites of God's unchanging nature and His ultimate control over their situation, even in exile.

about those living in Jerusalem
This phrase shifts the focus to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, who were still in the city at the time of Ezekiel's prophecy. The historical context is crucial here, as Jerusalem was under threat from Babylonian forces. The mention of "those living in Jerusalem" serves as a reminder of the impending judgment due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. It also contrasts the exiles' situation with that of those who remained, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's message.

and in the land of Israel
This expands the scope of the message to include not just Jerusalem but the entire land of Israel. The Hebrew term for "land" (אֶרֶץ, eretz) again emphasizes the covenantal relationship between God and His people. This phrase serves as a reminder that God's judgment and promises are not limited to a single location but encompass the whole nation, reflecting His sovereignty over all creation.

They will eat their bread with anxiety
The imagery of eating bread "with anxiety" conveys a sense of fear and uncertainty. In the Hebrew culture, bread is a staple of life, symbolizing sustenance and provision. The anxiety associated with eating reflects the dire circumstances and the psychological impact of living under threat. This phrase serves as a prophetic warning of the consequences of disobedience, urging the people to return to God.

and drink their water in despair
Similar to the previous phrase, drinking water "in despair" highlights the emotional and spiritual distress of the people. Water, like bread, is essential for life, and its consumption in despair indicates a deep sense of hopelessness. This phrase underscores the severity of the situation and the need for repentance and reliance on God for true peace and security.

for their land will be stripped of everything in it
This phrase prophesies the complete desolation of the land, a consequence of the people's sin. The Hebrew word for "stripped" (שָׁמֵם, shamem) implies utter devastation and ruin. Historically, this was fulfilled when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment.

because of the violence of all who live in it
The phrase identifies the root cause of the impending judgment: the violence and wickedness of the inhabitants. The Hebrew word for "violence" (חָמָס, chamas) encompasses injustice, oppression, and moral corruption. This highlights the moral and ethical failures of the people, calling them to repentance and a return to God's righteous standards.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon.

2. The People of the Land
Refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and the broader land of Israel who are being warned of impending judgment.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, significant in biblical history as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will and judgments through His prophets.

5. The Exile
The period during which the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon, a time of judgment and reflection on their disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin leads to anxiety and despair, as seen in the lives of the Israelites. We must recognize the impact of sin on our spiritual and physical well-being.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is just and sovereign, and His judgments are a response to the people's actions. We should live in a way that honors His holiness.

The Call to Repentance
Even in judgment, there is an implicit call to repentance. We should be quick to turn back to God when we recognize our disobedience.

Trust in God's Provision
Despite the circumstances, believers are called to trust in God's provision and care, knowing that He is faithful to those who seek Him.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets like Ezekiel are used by God to communicate His truth. We should be attentive to God's word and the messages He sends through His servants.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel 12:19 illustrate the consequences of the Israelites' disobedience, and what can we learn from this about the nature of sin?

2. In what ways does the anxiety and despair described in this verse relate to the warnings given in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28?

3. How can we apply the lessons of God's sovereignty and justice in Ezekiel 12:19 to our own lives today?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living in obedience to God and avoiding the spiritual pitfalls that lead to anxiety and despair?

5. How does the role of the prophet in delivering God's message challenge us to be attentive to God's word and responsive to His guidance in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including the anxiety and despair that come from turning away from God.

Deuteronomy 28
Similar to Leviticus 26, it details the consequences of Israel's disobedience, including the loss of peace and security.

Jeremiah 14
Jeremiah also speaks of the despair and lack of resources due to the people's sin, paralleling Ezekiel's message.

Psalm 107
This psalm reflects on the distress and deliverance of God's people, emphasizing the importance of turning back to God in times of trouble.