Ezekiel 23:35

Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: 'Because you have forgotten Me and have cast Me behind your back, you must bear the consequences of your indecency and prostitution.'"

Study Bible

Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says
The phrase begins with "Therefore," indicating a conclusion or result based on previous statements. In the Hebrew text, "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing God's sovereign authority and covenant relationship with Israel. This introduction underscores the seriousness and divine authority behind the forthcoming judgment. Historically, this reflects the prophetic tradition where God communicates directly through His prophets, emphasizing His active role in guiding and correcting His people.

Because you have forgotten Me
The Hebrew root for "forgotten" is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which implies a deliberate neglect or disregard. In the context of Israel's covenant relationship with God, forgetting Him is not merely a lapse in memory but a willful abandonment of their commitment and identity as His chosen people. This phrase highlights the spiritual amnesia that leads to idolatry and moral decay, a recurring theme in the prophetic literature.

and cast Me behind your back
This vivid imagery of casting God "behind your back" suggests a conscious rejection and disrespect. In ancient Near Eastern culture, turning one's back on someone was a profound insult, symbolizing betrayal and disloyalty. This phrase illustrates Israel's spiritual adultery, choosing to pursue other gods and desires over their covenant with Yahweh. It serves as a powerful reminder of the relational nature of sin, where turning away from God leads to estrangement and judgment.

you must bear the consequences
The concept of bearing consequences is rooted in the principle of divine justice. The Hebrew word for "bear" is "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which can mean to carry or endure. This implies that the people of Israel must face the repercussions of their actions, a theme consistent with the covenantal blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy. It underscores the biblical truth that sin has inherent consequences, both spiritually and materially.

of your lewdness and prostitution
The terms "lewdness" and "prostitution" are metaphorical, representing Israel's idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. The Hebrew word for "lewdness" is "זִמָּה" (zimmah), often associated with moral corruption and depravity. "Prostitution" (זָנָה, zanah) is frequently used in the prophets to describe Israel's spiritual infidelity, likening their pursuit of other gods to an adulterous relationship. This imagery serves to convey the gravity of their sin and the depth of their betrayal, calling the people to recognize their need for repentance and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and holy God of Israel, who speaks through Ezekiel to address the sins of His people.

3. Israel and Judah
Represented as two sisters in Ezekiel 23, symbolizing the divided kingdoms of God's chosen people who have turned to idolatry and immorality.

4. Lewdness and Prostitution
Metaphors for the spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry of Israel and Judah, who have abandoned their covenant with God.

5. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a period of judgment and reflection for the Israelites due to their persistent disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Forgetfulness
Forgetting God leads to spiritual decay and moral compromise. We must actively remember and prioritize our relationship with Him.

Consequences of Idolatry
Spiritual unfaithfulness has real consequences. Just as Israel faced judgment, we too must be aware of the repercussions of placing anything above God.

God's Call to Repentance
Despite judgment, God's desire is for His people to return to Him. Repentance is always an option, and God is ready to restore those who turn back to Him.

The Importance of Covenant Faithfulness
Our relationship with God is a covenant that requires faithfulness. We must guard against anything that might lead us away from our commitment to Him.

Reflecting on Our Priorities
Evaluate what we have metaphorically "cast behind our back." Are there areas in our lives where we have neglected God?

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that might cause us to forget God, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does the metaphor of lewdness and prostitution help us understand the seriousness of spiritual unfaithfulness?

3. In what ways can we actively remember and prioritize our relationship with God in our daily lives?

4. How do the consequences faced by Israel and Judah serve as a warning for us today?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of neglecting God. How did that experience shape your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 2:32
This verse also speaks of Israel's forgetfulness of God, using the metaphor of a bride forgetting her adornments, highlighting the depth of Israel's spiritual amnesia.

Hosea 4:12
Hosea addresses similar themes of spiritual adultery and idolatry, emphasizing the consequences of turning away from God.

Deuteronomy 32:18
This verse reminds Israel of their forgetfulness of the Rock who fathered them, paralleling the theme of neglecting God.