Ezekiel 28:25

This is what the Lord GOD says: 'When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they have been scattered, I will show Myself holy among them in the sight of the nations. Then they will dwell in their own land, which I have given to My servant Jacob.

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase underscores the divine authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing both His lordship and His covenantal relationship with Israel. It is a reminder that the words following are not merely prophetic utterances but the very declarations of God Himself, who is faithful to His promises.

When I gather the house of Israel
The gathering of Israel is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, symbolizing restoration and redemption. The Hebrew word for "gather" is "qabats," which conveys the idea of collecting or assembling. This gathering is not just a physical return but a spiritual restoration, indicating God's faithfulness to His covenant people despite their previous disobedience.

from the peoples among whom they have been scattered
The scattering of Israel among the nations was a consequence of their disobedience and idolatry. Historically, this refers to the Assyrian and Babylonian exiles. The Hebrew word "zarah" means to scatter or disperse, often used in the context of sowing seed. This scattering was both a judgment and a means of eventual blessing, as it set the stage for a future regathering and renewal.

I will show Myself holy among them
God's holiness is a central theme in Ezekiel. The Hebrew word "qadash" means to be set apart or consecrated. God's holiness is demonstrated through His actions and His faithfulness to His promises. By regathering Israel, God reveals His sanctity and righteousness, setting Himself apart from the false gods of the nations.

in the sight of the nations
This phrase highlights the universal scope of God's plan. The regathering and restoration of Israel serve as a testimony to the nations of God's power and faithfulness. The Hebrew word "goyim" refers to the Gentile nations, indicating that God's actions towards Israel have implications for the entire world, showcasing His sovereignty over all creation.

Then they will dwell in their own land
The promise of dwelling in their own land is a reaffirmation of the Abrahamic covenant. The Hebrew word "yashab" means to sit, remain, or dwell, suggesting a sense of permanence and peace. This promise is not just about physical territory but about a restored relationship with God, where His people can live securely under His protection.

which I gave to My servant Jacob
The reference to "My servant Jacob" connects the promise to the patriarchs and the covenantal history of Israel. The land was a gift from God, a tangible sign of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's promises and His unwavering commitment to His chosen people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and holy God of Israel, who speaks through the prophet Ezekiel.

2. The House of Israel
Refers to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation, who have been scattered among other nations due to their disobedience.

3. The Nations
The various peoples and countries among whom the Israelites have been dispersed.

4. The Land
The promised land given to Jacob (Israel), which is a central theme in God's covenant with His people.

5. Jacob
The patriarch whose name was changed to Israel, representing the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God remains faithful to His promises, even when His people are unfaithful. This encourages believers to trust in God's unchanging nature.

Holiness of God
God's actions in gathering Israel demonstrate His holiness. Believers are called to reflect God's holiness in their lives.

Restoration and Hope
The promise of restoration for Israel offers hope for all believers that God can restore and redeem any situation.

Covenant Relationship
The land given to Jacob signifies God's covenant relationship with His people. Believers are reminded of their covenant relationship with God through Christ.

Witness to the Nations
God's work among His people serves as a testimony to the nations. Christians are called to be a light to the world, showcasing God's glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of gathering Israel from the nations demonstrate God's faithfulness to His covenant?

2. In what ways can we reflect God's holiness in our daily lives, as He shows Himself holy among the nations?

3. How does the theme of restoration in Ezekiel 28:25 provide hope for personal or communal situations today?

4. What are some practical ways we can be a witness to the nations, reflecting God's work in our lives?

5. How does understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel deepen our appreciation for our relationship with God through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:3-5
This passage speaks of God's promise to restore Israel from exile, similar to the gathering mentioned in Ezekiel 28:25.

Isaiah 11:12
This verse also discusses the gathering of the dispersed of Israel, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promises.

Jeremiah 23:3
Here, God promises to gather the remnant of His flock, which aligns with the theme of restoration in Ezekiel.

Ezekiel 36:24-28
This passage expands on the theme of gathering and restoration, including the promise of a new heart and spirit.

Romans 11:26-27
Paul speaks of the future salvation of Israel, connecting the Old Testament promises to New Testament fulfillment.