Ezekiel 25:17

I will execute great vengeance against them with furious reproof. Then they will know that I am the LORD, when I lay My vengeance upon them.'"

Study Bible

I will execute great vengeance on them with furious rebukes
I will execute
The phrase indicates God's direct action and intervention. The Hebrew root for "execute" is often associated with carrying out justice or judgment. In the context of Ezekiel, God is asserting His sovereignty and His role as the ultimate judge. This reflects the biblical theme that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals, ensuring that His divine justice is fulfilled.

great vengeance
The term "vengeance" in Hebrew is "naqam," which implies retribution or recompense. It is important to understand that biblical vengeance is not about human emotions of revenge but about restoring divine order and justice. God's vengeance is portrayed as righteous and just, aimed at correcting wrongs and upholding His holiness.

on them
This phrase refers to the nations surrounding Israel, specifically the Ammonites, Moabites, Edomites, and Philistines, as mentioned earlier in Ezekiel 25. These nations had acted against Israel, and thus against God's covenant people. The historical context reveals that these nations often opposed Israel, and their actions warranted divine judgment.

with furious rebukes
The word "furious" conveys the intensity of God's response. The Hebrew word "chemah" is often translated as "wrath" or "fury," indicating a passionate expression of God's displeasure. "Rebukes" suggests correction or chastisement. Together, this phrase emphasizes the seriousness of God's judgment and His commitment to addressing sin and injustice.

Then they will know that I am the LORD
This concluding phrase, which appears frequently in Ezekiel, underscores the purpose of God's actions. The ultimate goal of divine judgment is not merely punishment but revelation. Through these acts, God reveals His identity, power, and authority. The acknowledgment of God as LORD is central to the biblical narrative, calling all people to recognize His sovereignty and submit to His will.

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. Ammonites, Moabites, Edomites, Philistines
Nations surrounding Israel that are subjects of God's judgment in Ezekiel 25. They are mentioned earlier in the chapter as recipients of God's vengeance due to their actions against Israel.

3. God's Vengeance
The central theme of this verse, where God declares His intention to execute judgment on the nations that have wronged His people.

4. Divine Rebuke
The method through which God will express His anger and execute His judgment, emphasizing His sovereignty and justice.

5. Recognition of the LORD
The ultimate purpose of God's actions is to ensure that these nations acknowledge His sovereignty and power.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Justice
God's vengeance is not arbitrary but a response to sin and injustice. It serves as a reminder of His holiness and righteousness.

God's Sovereignty
The passage emphasizes that God is in control and that His actions are purposeful, leading to the acknowledgment of His lordship.

Trust in God's Timing
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing for justice, knowing that He sees all and will act according to His perfect will.

Call to Repentance
The warning of divine vengeance serves as a call to repentance, urging individuals and nations to turn back to God.

Hope in God's Justice
For those who suffer injustice, this passage offers hope that God will ultimately set things right.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's vengeance in Ezekiel 25:17 shape our view of His character and justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God in our personal lives, as seen in Romans 12:19?

3. How does the recognition of God's sovereignty in this passage encourage us in times of injustice or suffering?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are living in a way that acknowledges God's lordship, as the nations were called to do?

5. How can the themes of divine justice and repentance in Ezekiel 25:17 inspire us to share the gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 32:35
This verse speaks of God's vengeance and recompense, highlighting His role as the ultimate judge.

Romans 12:19
Paul echoes the theme of divine vengeance, urging believers to leave room for God's wrath rather than seeking personal revenge.

Psalm 94:1-2
A call for God to act as the judge of the earth, similar to the divine justice described in Ezekiel.

Isaiah 61:2
Speaks of the "day of vengeance of our God," connecting to the theme of divine retribution and justice.