Ezekiel 30:12

I will make the streams dry up and sell the land to the wicked. By the hands of foreigners I will bring desolation upon the land and everything in it. I, the LORD, have spoken.

Study Bible

I will dry up the streams of the Nile
This phrase speaks to the divine intervention and control over nature, specifically the Nile River, which was the lifeblood of Egypt. The Hebrew root for "dry up" is "yabash," which conveys a sense of desolation and barrenness. Historically, the Nile was central to Egyptian agriculture, economy, and daily life. By declaring that He will dry up the Nile, God is asserting His power over Egypt's most vital resource, symbolizing the impending judgment and the futility of relying on earthly resources over divine providence.

and sell the land into the hands of the wicked
The phrase "sell the land" suggests a transfer of ownership and control, indicating that God will allow foreign powers to dominate Egypt. The Hebrew word "makar" for "sell" implies a transaction or exchange, often used in contexts of judgment or punishment. The "wicked" refers to those who do not follow God's ways, possibly indicating foreign invaders or oppressive rulers. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the sovereignty He holds over nations.

I will bring desolation upon the land and everything in it
"Desolation" in Hebrew is "shammah," which conveys utter ruin and devastation. This phrase underscores the totality of the judgment that God will bring upon Egypt. The historical context reveals that Egypt, once a powerful empire, would face significant decline and hardship. This serves as a warning of the consequences of pride and self-reliance, emphasizing the need for humility and dependence on God.

by the hand of foreigners
The "hand of foreigners" indicates that God will use external forces to execute His judgment. The Hebrew word "yad" for "hand" often symbolizes power or means. This phrase highlights the theme of God using nations as instruments of His will, demonstrating His control over world events. It serves as a reminder that God can use any means to fulfill His purposes, and His plans are beyond human understanding.

I, the LORD, have spoken
This declaration affirms the certainty and authority of God's word. The use of "I, the LORD" emphasizes His identity as Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The phrase "have spoken" underscores the finality and unchangeable nature of His pronouncements. It serves as a powerful reminder of the trustworthiness of God's promises and the assurance that His words will come to pass. This calls believers to faith and obedience, recognizing the ultimate authority of God in all matters.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The sovereign God who declares judgment and has the power to execute it.

2. The Nile
A significant river in Egypt, symbolizing life and prosperity for the nation.

3. Egypt
A powerful ancient nation, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and idolatry.

4. Evil Men
Those who are morally corrupt and used as instruments of God's judgment.

5. Foreigners
Non-Egyptians who are used by God to bring about His judgment on Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes, whether for blessing or judgment.

The Futility of Idolatry
Egypt's reliance on the Nile and its gods is shown to be futile when God dries up the river, reminding us to place our trust in God alone.

Judgment as a Call to Repentance
God's judgments are not arbitrary but serve as a call to repentance and recognition of His sovereignty.

The Role of Foreigners in God's Plan
God can use anyone, even those outside His covenant people, to fulfill His divine purposes, challenging us to see His hand in unexpected places.

The Certainty of God's Word
When God declares something, it will come to pass. His word is sure and trustworthy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the drying up of the Nile in Ezekiel 30:12 symbolize God's judgment on Egypt, and what does this teach us about the things we rely on for security?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Egypt in Ezekiel 30 relate to the plagues in Exodus, and what can we learn about God's power over creation?

3. How can we see God's sovereignty in the use of "foreigners" to accomplish His purposes, and how does this challenge our understanding of God's work in the world today?

4. What are some modern-day "Niles" that people might rely on instead of God, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

5. How does the certainty of God's word in Ezekiel 30:12 encourage us to trust in His promises and warnings throughout Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 19
This chapter also speaks of the judgment against Egypt, highlighting the drying up of the Nile and the resulting devastation.

Jeremiah 46
Jeremiah prophesies against Egypt, emphasizing God's control over nations and His ability to humble the proud.

Exodus 7:14-25
The plagues of Egypt, particularly the turning of the Nile into blood, demonstrate God's power over Egypt and its gods.

Revelation 16:12
The drying up of the Euphrates River as part of the end-times judgments, showing a parallel in God's control over natural elements to fulfill His purposes.