Ezekiel 29:19

Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who will carry off its wealth, seize its spoil, and remove its plunder. This will be the wages for his army.

Study Bible

Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase underscores the authority and sovereignty of God in delivering His message. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing both the masterful authority and the covenantal relationship God has with His people. This introduction serves as a divine seal, affirming that the following pronouncement is not merely a human prediction but a decree from the Creator Himself. It reminds us of the ultimate power and control God holds over nations and history.

I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
The phrase "I will give" indicates God's active role in the unfolding of historical events. The Hebrew verb "natan" (to give) suggests a deliberate and purposeful action by God. Egypt, a symbol of worldly power and idolatry, is being handed over to Nebuchadnezzar, illustrating God's judgment upon nations that oppose His will. Historically, this reflects the geopolitical shifts of the ancient Near East, where Babylon was rising as a dominant empire. This transfer of power serves as a reminder of God's ability to use even pagan rulers to accomplish His divine purposes.

and he will carry off its wealth
The phrase "carry off its wealth" speaks to the spoils of war that Nebuchadnezzar would seize from Egypt. The Hebrew root "shalal" (to plunder) conveys the idea of stripping away resources and treasures. This act of taking wealth is not just a physical removal of goods but also symbolizes the stripping away of Egypt's pride and self-reliance. In a broader spiritual context, it serves as a warning against placing trust in material wealth and worldly power, which can be easily taken away by God's decree.

He will despoil it and plunder it
The repetition of "despoil" and "plunder" emphasizes the totality of Egypt's defeat and humiliation. The Hebrew words "bazaz" (to plunder) and "shalal" (to despoil) are often used in the context of military conquest, highlighting the complete subjugation and devastation that Egypt would face. This serves as a vivid illustration of the consequences of opposing God's will and the futility of relying on human strength and alliances.

and it will be the wages for his army
The term "wages" here is significant, as it implies that the conquest of Egypt is a form of compensation for Nebuchadnezzar's military efforts. The Hebrew word "sakhar" (wages) suggests a payment or reward for services rendered. This reflects the ancient practice of rewarding soldiers with the spoils of war. In a theological sense, it demonstrates how God can use even the ambitions and actions of secular powers to fulfill His divine plans. It also serves as a reminder that God is just and will ensure that all actions, whether good or evil, are accounted for in His divine economy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Jewish exiles in Babylon. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through His prophet Ezekiel.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, known for his conquests and the Babylonian captivity of Judah. He is used by God as an instrument of judgment.

4. Egypt
A powerful and historically significant nation in the ancient Near East, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God’s people.

5. Babylon
The empire ruled by Nebuchadnezzar, which God used to execute judgment on various nations, including Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware of it.

Divine Justice and Judgment
God’s judgment is just and serves as a warning to those who oppose His will. He uses earthly powers to execute His divine justice.

The Consequences of Pride
Egypt's downfall serves as a reminder of the dangers of pride and reliance on worldly power rather than on God.

God's Provision for His Servants
God provides for those who serve His purposes, as seen in how He rewards Nebuchadnezzar for his role in executing judgment.

Trust in God Alone
Believers are reminded to place their trust in God rather than in worldly powers or alliances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 29:19 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations?

2. In what ways does the judgment of Egypt serve as a warning to other nations and individuals who oppose God?

3. How can we see the theme of divine justice in the way God uses Nebuchadnezzar to fulfill His purposes?

4. What lessons can we learn from Egypt's reliance on its own strength and how can we apply these lessons to our own lives?

5. How does the fulfillment of this prophecy encourage us to trust in God's provision and timing in our own circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 43-44
These chapters describe the warnings against seeking refuge in Egypt, highlighting Egypt's impending judgment.

Isaiah 19
This chapter prophesies the judgment and eventual restoration of Egypt, showing God's sovereignty over all nations.

Daniel 4
Nebuchadnezzar's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty after his period of humbling, illustrating God's control over kings and nations.