Ezekiel 28:26

And there they will dwell securely, build houses, and plant vineyards. They will dwell securely when I execute judgments against all those around them who treat them with contempt. Then they will know that I am the LORD their God.'"

Study Bible

They will live there securely
The phrase "live there securely" speaks to a promise of peace and safety. The Hebrew root for "securely" is "בֶּטַח" (betach), which conveys a sense of confidence and trust. Historically, Israel's security was often threatened by surrounding nations. This promise indicates a divine assurance of protection, reflecting God's covenant faithfulness. In a spiritual sense, it symbolizes the peace believers find in God's presence, trusting in His sovereignty over life's circumstances.

build houses
"Build houses" signifies stability and permanence. In ancient times, building a house was a sign of settling down and establishing roots. The Hebrew word "בָּנָה" (banah) means to build or establish. This phrase suggests a future where the Israelites can invest in their land without fear of displacement. Spiritually, it can be seen as an encouragement for believers to build their lives on the foundation of God's promises, creating a lasting legacy of faith.

and plant vineyards
The act of planting vineyards represents prosperity and hope for the future. Vineyards require time to mature, indicating a long-term investment in the land. The Hebrew "נָטַע" (nata) means to plant or establish. This imagery is often used in Scripture to depict abundance and blessing. For Christians, it can symbolize the fruitfulness of a life rooted in Christ, where spiritual growth and blessings are cultivated over time.

They will live securely
The repetition of "live securely" emphasizes the certainty of God's promise. It reassures the Israelites of their safety under God's protection. This security is not just physical but also spiritual, as it reflects a deep trust in God's provision and care. For believers today, it serves as a reminder of the peace that comes from resting in God's promises, regardless of external circumstances.

when I execute judgments
"Execute judgments" refers to God's righteous intervention against those who oppose His people. The Hebrew "שָׁפַט" (shaphat) means to judge or govern. This phrase underscores God's role as the ultimate judge who defends His people and upholds justice. Historically, it points to God's actions against Israel's enemies. Spiritually, it reassures believers that God will vindicate them and bring justice in His perfect timing.

against all their neighbors who treat them with contempt
This phrase highlights the specific targets of God's judgments—those who scorn and oppress His people. The Hebrew "בּוּז" (buz) means to despise or hold in contempt. It reflects the historical animosity Israel faced from surrounding nations. For Christians, it serves as a reminder that God is aware of the injustices they face and will act on their behalf, affirming His commitment to His people.

Then they will know that I am the LORD their God
This concluding phrase emphasizes the ultimate purpose of God's actions: to reveal His identity and sovereignty. The Hebrew "יָדַע" (yada) means to know intimately or experientially. This knowledge goes beyond intellectual understanding to a deep, personal recognition of God's power and faithfulness. For believers, it is an invitation to deepen their relationship with God, recognizing Him as the Lord of their lives and the source of their security and peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who are promised security and prosperity in their land.

2. Neighbors
The surrounding nations that have treated Israel with contempt and hostility.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who promises protection and judgment.

4. Judgments
Divine actions against Israel's enemies, ensuring their security.

5. Land of Israel
The promised land where the Israelites will dwell securely.

Teaching Points

Security in God's Promises
God's promises of security and prosperity are contingent upon His divine judgment and protection. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises.

Divine Justice
God's execution of judgment against those who oppose His people demonstrates His justice. This assures believers that God will ultimately vindicate His people.

Living in Peace
The promise of living securely and prosperously encourages believers to seek peace and stability in their own lives through obedience to God.

Recognition of God's Sovereignty
The ultimate purpose of God's actions is that His people will know Him as the LORD. Believers are called to recognize and submit to God's sovereignty in their lives.

Community and Restoration
The imagery of building houses and planting vineyards signifies community and restoration. Believers are encouraged to invest in their communities and work towards restoration and growth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of security in Ezekiel 28:26 relate to the broader theme of God's covenant with Israel?

2. In what ways can we see God's justice at work in our own lives and communities today?

3. How can we apply the concept of living securely in God's promises to our daily lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to build and restore our communities, as symbolized by building houses and planting vineyards?

5. How does recognizing God's sovereignty impact our response to challenges and opposition in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
Discusses the blessings of obedience, including security and prosperity in the land.

Jeremiah 32
Promises of restoration and security for Israel after judgment.

Psalm 23
The theme of God as a shepherd providing security and peace.

Isaiah 32
Prophecies about a future of peace and security under God's reign.

Zechariah 8
Visions of a restored Jerusalem where people live in peace and prosperity.