Ezekiel 25:7

therefore I will indeed stretch out My hand against you and give you as plunder to the nations. I will cut you off from the peoples and exterminate you from the countries. I will destroy you, and you will know that I am the LORD.'

Study Bible

therefore I will stretch out My hand against you
The phrase "stretch out My hand" is a powerful biblical metaphor often used to signify God's direct intervention, typically in judgment or deliverance. In Hebrew, the word for "hand" (יָד, yad) symbolizes power and authority. This imagery recalls the Exodus narrative, where God stretched out His hand against Egypt (Exodus 7:5). Here, it signifies God's active role in executing judgment against Ammon for their transgressions, emphasizing His sovereign control over nations.

and give you as plunder to the nations
The term "plunder" (בַּז, baz) refers to spoils of war, indicating a complete defeat and humiliation. Historically, this reflects the common practice of conquering nations taking the wealth and people of the defeated as spoils. Theologically, it underscores the consequences of defying God’s will, as Ammon is handed over to other nations, losing their autonomy and wealth. This serves as a warning of the futility of opposing God’s plans.

I will cut you off from the peoples
"Cut you off" (כָּרַת, karat) is a phrase denoting a severe form of judgment, often implying destruction or removal from a covenant community. In the context of ancient Israel, being cut off meant losing identity and protection. For Ammon, this signifies a loss of national identity and a severance from the community of nations, highlighting the severity of divine judgment.

and exterminate you from the lands
The word "exterminate" (אָבַד, abad) conveys total destruction or annihilation. This reflects the historical reality of nations that vanished due to conquest and assimilation. Theologically, it serves as a sobering reminder of the ultimate consequence of persistent rebellion against God. The "lands" (אֲדָמָה, adamah) here may refer to their own territory, emphasizing the complete removal of their presence and influence.

I will destroy you
The repetition of the theme of destruction (שָׁמַד, shamad) reinforces the certainty and totality of the judgment. This is not merely a temporary setback but a definitive end. It serves as a divine assurance that God’s justice will prevail, and His word will be fulfilled.

and you will know that I am the LORD
This concluding phrase is a recurring motif in Ezekiel, emphasizing the purpose of God’s actions: to reveal His identity and sovereignty. The Hebrew name for LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is the covenant name of God, underscoring His faithfulness and authority. The judgment serves as a revelation to the nations of God’s power and holiness, compelling them to acknowledge Him as the one true God. This acknowledgment is not just intellectual but a recognition of His rightful place as the sovereign ruler of all creation.

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 hope.

2. Ammonites
A people group descended from Lot, living east of the Jordan River. They were often in conflict with Israel and Judah.

3. God's Judgment
The divine retribution pronounced by God against the Ammonites for their actions against Israel.

4. Nations
Refers to the surrounding peoples who would be used by God to execute His judgment on the Ammonites.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's pronouncement against the Ammonites demonstrates His control over nations and history. Believers can trust that God is just and will address wrongdoing in His timing.

The Consequences of Pride and Hostility
The Ammonites' pride and hostility towards Israel led to their downfall. This serves as a warning against harboring animosity and pride in our own lives.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of God's judgment against the Ammonites underscores the reliability of His word. Christians are encouraged to trust in the promises and warnings found in Scripture.

God's Desire for Recognition
The repeated phrase "you will know that I am the LORD" highlights God's desire for recognition and relationship. Believers are called to acknowledge God's authority and seek a deeper relationship with Him.

The Role of Prophets
Ezekiel's role as a prophet reminds us of the importance of listening to God's messengers. Today, this can be applied by valuing biblical teaching and seeking guidance from spiritual leaders.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Ammonites enhance our comprehension of Ezekiel 25:7?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the world today, similar to His actions against the Ammonites?

3. How can we guard against pride and hostility in our own lives, learning from the Ammonites' example?

4. What are some promises or warnings in Scripture that you find challenging to trust, and how can Ezekiel's prophecy encourage you?

5. How can we actively seek to "know that [He] is the LORD" in our daily lives, as emphasized in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
Provides the background of the Ammonites' origin, tracing them back to Lot, Abraham's nephew.

Jeremiah 49
Contains a parallel prophecy against the Ammonites, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment.

Zephaniah 2
Also speaks of judgment against the Ammonites, highlighting the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to leave vengeance to God, aligning with the theme of divine justice seen in Ezekiel.

Psalm 83
A prayer for God to act against Israel's enemies, reflecting the historical enmity between Israel and the Ammonites.