In the twenty-seventh year, on the first day of the first month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying, In the twenty-seventh yearThis phrase marks a specific point in time, providing a chronological anchor for the prophecy. The twenty-seventh year refers to the period of the Babylonian exile, which began in 597 BC. This dating is significant as it situates the prophecy within the historical context of Israel's captivity, a time of great upheaval and reflection for the Jewish people. The precision of the date underscores the reliability and historical accuracy of the biblical narrative, reminding us that God's messages are rooted in real-world events and timelines. in the first month on the first day the word of the LORD came to me saying Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet of God, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's word. He is known for his visions and prophecies concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel. 2. The LORD The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His divine will and plans through His prophets. 3. Egypt Although not mentioned directly in this verse, the context of Ezekiel 29 involves prophecies against Egypt, a nation that had been a significant power and often an adversary or unreliable ally to Israel. 4. Babylon The rising power during Ezekiel's time, which God uses as an instrument of judgment against other nations, including Egypt. 5. The Twenty-Seventh Year This date marks a specific time in Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, providing historical context for the prophecy. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Over NationsGod is in control of all nations and uses them to fulfill His purposes. This should remind us of His ultimate authority and our need to trust in His plans. The Importance of Prophetic Timing The specific timing of prophecies highlights God's precision and faithfulness. We can trust that God's timing in our lives is perfect, even when we do not understand it. Judgment and Restoration God's messages often include both judgment and hope. We should be aware of our actions and their consequences, but also hold onto the hope of restoration through repentance. Reliance on God, Not Human Alliances Israel's history with Egypt shows the danger of relying on human strength rather than God. We should evaluate where we place our trust and ensure it is in God alone. The Role of Prophets Prophets like Ezekiel were vital in communicating God's word. We should value and seek out God's word in our lives, understanding its relevance and authority. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the specific timing of this prophecy (the twenty-seventh year) enhance our understanding of God's control over history?2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty over nations in today's world, and how should this influence our prayers and actions? 3. Reflect on a time when you relied on human strength or alliances instead of God. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from it? 4. How can we discern and apply the messages of judgment and hope found in the Bible to our personal lives and communities? 5. Considering the role of prophets in the Bible, how can we ensure we are listening to and valuing God's word in our daily lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Ezekiel 29:1-16Provides the context for the prophecy against Egypt, detailing God's judgment on Pharaoh and Egypt for their pride and false reliance. Jeremiah 46 Another prophecy against Egypt, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His use of Babylon as an instrument of judgment. Isaiah 19 Offers a broader perspective on Egypt's future, including both judgment and eventual blessing, showing God's ultimate plan for redemption.
People Egyptians, Ezekiel, Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadrezzar, PharaohPlaces Babylon, Cush, Egypt, Migdol, Nile River, Pathros, Sidon, Syene, TyreTopics Month, Pass, Saying, Seven, Seventh, Twentieth, Twenty, Twenty-seventhDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 29:16Library But Perhaps Some one is Alarmed at Hearing us Discourse of the Death of Him16. But perhaps some one is alarmed at hearing us discourse of the death of Him of Whom, a short while since, we said that He is everlasting with God the Father, and that He was begotten of the Father's substance, and is one with God the Father, in dominion, majesty, and eternity. But be not alarmed, O faithful hearer. Presently thou wilt see Him of Whose death thou hearest once more immortal; for the death to which He submits is about to spoil death. For the object of that mystery of the Incarnation … Various—Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. The Plan for the Coming of Jesus. Ezekiel Links Ezekiel 29:17 NIVEzekiel 29:17 NLT Ezekiel 29:17 ESV Ezekiel 29:17 NASB Ezekiel 29:17 KJV Ezekiel 29:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |