Ezekiel 25:2

"Son of man, set your face against the Ammonites and prophesy against them.

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent designation for Ezekiel, used over 90 times in the book. In Hebrew, "ben adam" emphasizes the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. It underscores the humility and frailty of human nature in contrast to the divine. The term "son of man" also foreshadows the New Testament usage where Jesus refers to Himself as the "Son of Man," highlighting His identification with humanity.

set your face
This expression is a Hebrew idiom that implies determination and resolute intention. It suggests a prophetic stance of confrontation and judgment. In the context of Ezekiel, it indicates the prophet's role in delivering God's message with unwavering commitment, regardless of opposition or difficulty.

against the Ammonites
The Ammonites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and were often in conflict with Israel. Historically, they occupied the region east of the Jordan River. This phrase indicates a specific divine judgment against a nation that had been hostile to Israel. The Ammonites' enmity towards Israel is documented in various biblical accounts, and this judgment reflects God's justice against those who oppose His people.

prophesy against them
The act of prophesying in this context involves delivering a message from God that often includes warning, judgment, and the call to repentance. The Hebrew root "naba" means to speak or sing by inspiration. This command to prophesy against the Ammonites signifies God's direct communication through Ezekiel, serving as both a warning to the Ammonites and a reassurance to Israel of God's sovereignty and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites and surrounding nations during the Babylonian exile.

2. Ammonites
A neighboring nation of Israel, often in conflict with the Israelites. They are descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as adversaries of Israel.

3. Prophecy
A divine message delivered by a prophet. In this context, it is a message of judgment against the Ammonites for their actions and attitudes towards Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This passage reminds us that God is sovereign over all nations, not just Israel. He holds all accountable for their actions.

The Consequences of Pride and Hostility
The Ammonites' pride and hostility towards Israel led to their judgment. We must guard against pride and hostility in our own lives.

The Role of a Prophet
Ezekiel's role as a prophet was to deliver God's message, regardless of its popularity. We are called to speak truth in love, even when it is difficult.

Historical Context Matters
Understanding the historical and cultural context of biblical passages enriches our comprehension and application of Scripture.

God's Justice and Mercy
While this passage focuses on judgment, it is part of the larger biblical account that includes God's mercy and desire for repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the relationship between Israel and the Ammonites about how we should treat our neighbors today?

2. How does understanding the historical context of the Ammonites enhance our understanding of God's message through Ezekiel?

3. In what ways can pride and hostility manifest in our lives, and how can we address these issues biblically?

4. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet challenge us in our own responsibility to speak truth in our communities?

5. How can we balance understanding God's justice with His mercy in our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19:36-38
Provides the background of the Ammonites' origin, tracing them back to Lot, which helps understand their historical relationship with Israel.

Jeremiah 49:1-6
Another prophecy against the Ammonites, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment due to their actions against Israel.

Zephaniah 2:8-11
Speaks of God's judgment on the Ammonites and other nations, highlighting the broader context of God's justice.