Ezekiel 29:20

I have given him the land of Egypt as the reward for his labor, because it was done for Me, declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

I have given him
This phrase indicates a divine act of granting or bestowing. In the Hebrew text, the verb "given" (נָתַן, natan) is often used to express God's sovereign will and authority in distributing lands and blessings. It underscores God's control over nations and His ability to use them for His purposes. Historically, this refers to God giving Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, as a recompense for his efforts against Tyre, which aligns with God's overarching plan.

the land of Egypt
Egypt, a significant nation in biblical history, often symbolizes worldly power and opposition to God's people. The Hebrew term for Egypt, "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), is rooted in the idea of a place of distress or limitation, reflecting its role as a place of bondage for the Israelites. Archaeologically, Egypt was a powerful and wealthy civilization, making it a valuable prize for any conqueror. This phrase highlights the transfer of power and wealth as part of God's judgment and reward system.

as his reward
The concept of "reward" (שָׂכָר, sakar) in Hebrew conveys the idea of wages or compensation for work done. In this context, it reflects God's justice in compensating Nebuchadnezzar for his military campaigns, which, although driven by his ambitions, ultimately served God's purposes. This demonstrates the biblical principle that God can use even pagan rulers to fulfill His divine plans and that He acknowledges their efforts in His service.

for which he labored
The word "labored" (עָבַד, avad) implies toil or work, often with a sense of servitude. Nebuchadnezzar's military campaigns were arduous and costly, and this phrase acknowledges the effort expended. It serves as a reminder that God sees and rewards the labor of individuals, even when they are unaware of their role in His divine narrative.

because they worked for Me
This phrase reveals the divine perspective that all actions, even those of secular rulers, can serve God's purposes. The Hebrew root "עָבַד" (avad) again emphasizes service, suggesting that Nebuchadnezzar's conquests were, in a mysterious way, service to God. This aligns with the biblical theme that God is sovereign over all nations and uses them to accomplish His will, whether they recognize it or not.

declares the Lord GOD
The phrase "declares the Lord GOD" (נְאֻם אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה, ne'um Adonai Yahweh) is a prophetic formula asserting the authority and certainty of the message. It emphasizes that the pronouncement is not merely a human prediction but a divine decree. This underscores the reliability of God's word and His ultimate control over historical events, providing assurance to believers that God's plans are unchangeable and will come to pass.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages, including prophecies of judgment and restoration.

2. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against various nations, including Egypt.

3. Egypt
A powerful nation in ancient times, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people. In this context, it is the subject of God's judgment.

4. Babylon
The empire ruled by Nebuchadnezzar, which God used to execute His judgment on other nations, including Egypt.

5. The Lord GOD
The sovereign ruler of the universe, who orchestrates events according to His divine will and purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to fulfill His purposes. This should give us confidence in His ultimate plan, even when world events seem chaotic.

Divine Justice and Reward
God rewards those who serve His purposes, even if unknowingly, as seen with Nebuchadnezzar. This reminds us that God sees and rewards all labor done for Him.

The Futility of Worldly Power
Egypt, a symbol of worldly power, is subject to God's judgment. We should not place our trust in worldly powers but in God alone.

God's Use of Unlikely Instruments
God can use anyone, even those who do not acknowledge Him, to accomplish His will. This encourages us to see God's hand in unexpected places and people.

Faithfulness in Service
Just as Nebuchadnezzar was rewarded for his labor, we are encouraged to be faithful in our service to God, trusting that He will reward us in His time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty over nations impact your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can you see God using unlikely people or situations in your life to accomplish His purposes?

3. How can the example of Egypt's judgment encourage you to place your trust in God rather than worldly powers?

4. What are some ways you can ensure that your labor is aligned with God's purposes, even if the reward is not immediate?

5. How does the concept of divine justice and reward challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:9
This passage also speaks of Nebuchadnezzar as God's servant, used to bring judgment upon nations, including Egypt.

Isaiah 19:1-4
Isaiah prophesies about the judgment of Egypt, which aligns with Ezekiel's prophecy, showing a consistent theme of God's sovereignty over nations.

Daniel 4:17
This verse highlights God's sovereignty in appointing rulers and using them for His purposes, similar to how He used Nebuchadnezzar.