Ezekiel 23:28

For this is what the Lord GOD says: 'Surely I will deliver you into the hands of those you hate, from whom you turned away in disgust.

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase underscores the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing God's supreme authority and covenantal relationship with Israel. In the prophetic tradition, this introduction signals a divine pronouncement, demanding attention and reverence. It reminds us that the words to follow are not merely human opinions but divine decrees, carrying the weight of God's unchanging truth and justice.

Behold
The word "behold" is a call to attention, urging the listener to focus on the gravity of the message. In Hebrew, "hinneh" serves as an imperative to awaken the audience to the significance of what is about to be revealed. It is a divine spotlight, illuminating the seriousness of the forthcoming judgment and inviting reflection on its implications.

I will deliver you
This phrase indicates God's active role in the unfolding events. The Hebrew root "nathan" means to give or deliver, suggesting a deliberate act of handing over. It reflects the concept of divine retribution, where God allows the consequences of Israel's actions to manifest. It serves as a sobering reminder of the justice inherent in God's character, where mercy and judgment coexist.

into the hands of those you hate
This part of the verse highlights the irony and tragedy of Israel's situation. The "hands" symbolize power and control, and being delivered into them signifies subjugation. The people they "hate" are likely the foreign nations they once sought alliances with, now turned adversaries. This reflects the biblical principle that reliance on anything other than God leads to downfall, as seen throughout Israel's history.

from whom you turned away in disgust
The phrase "turned away in disgust" captures the fickle nature of Israel's alliances and affections. The Hebrew root "ma'as" conveys rejection or disdain, illustrating Israel's contempt for these nations. Historically, Israel's political and spiritual infidelity led to alliances that were both pragmatic and disdainful. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising faithfulness to God for worldly security.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. Oholah and Oholibah
Symbolic names for Samaria and Jerusalem, representing the Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel, respectively. They are depicted as sisters in Ezekiel 23, engaging in spiritual adultery.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign God of Israel, who speaks through Ezekiel to pronounce judgment.

4. The Enemies
Nations that Israel had previously allied with or sought after, but ultimately despised, such as Babylon and Assyria.

5. The Exile
The historical context of Israel's punishment, where they were delivered into the hands of foreign nations due to their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Adultery
Just as Israel turned away from God to pursue other nations and their gods, believers today must guard against idolatry and unfaithfulness in their relationship with God.

Consequences of Sin
The passage highlights the inevitable consequences of turning away from God, reminding us that our choices have repercussions.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains in control, using even their enemies to fulfill His purposes. Trust in God's sovereignty is crucial.

Repentance and Restoration
While the passage speaks of judgment, it also serves as a call to repentance, offering hope for restoration if we turn back to God.

Avoiding Compromise
The alliances Israel made with other nations led to their downfall. Believers are called to remain distinct and not compromise their faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of spiritual adultery in Ezekiel 23:28 challenge your understanding of faithfulness to God?

2. In what ways can the consequences faced by Israel serve as a warning for us today?

3. How does recognizing God's sovereignty in this passage impact your trust in Him during difficult times?

4. What steps can you take to avoid spiritual compromise in your own life?

5. How do the themes of judgment and repentance in Ezekiel 23 relate to the message of the Gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 2
This chapter also addresses Israel's spiritual adultery and unfaithfulness, using similar imagery of a wayward spouse.

Hosea 2
Hosea's marriage to Gomer is a metaphor for Israel's unfaithfulness, paralleling the themes in Ezekiel 23.

2 Kings 17
Describes the fall of Samaria and the reasons for Israel's exile, providing historical context to Ezekiel's prophecy.

Isaiah 47
Speaks of the judgment on Babylon, the nation that would take Israel into exile, showing the broader scope of God's justice.

Revelation 17
Uses the imagery of a harlot to describe spiritual unfaithfulness, echoing the themes found in Ezekiel 23.