Ezekiel 31:11

I delivered it into the hand of the ruler of the nations, for him to deal with it according to its wickedness. I have banished it.

Study Bible

I handed it over
This phrase signifies God's sovereign authority and judgment. The Hebrew root "נתן" (natan) means "to give" or "to deliver." In the context of Ezekiel, God is the ultimate judge who delivers nations into the hands of others as a consequence of their actions. This reflects the biblical principle that God raises and deposes leaders according to His divine will (Daniel 2:21).

to the ruler of the nations
This refers to a powerful leader or empire used by God as an instrument of judgment. Historically, this could be seen as Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, who was often used by God to execute His judgments (Jeremiah 27:6). The phrase underscores the biblical theme that God uses even pagan nations to fulfill His purposes, demonstrating His control over all earthly powers.

for him to deal with according to its wickedness
The phrase highlights the principle of divine retribution. The Hebrew word for "wickedness" is "רִשְׁעָה" (rish'ah), indicating moral corruption and rebellion against God. This reflects the biblical teaching that sin has consequences, and God allows nations to face the repercussions of their collective iniquity (Galatians 6:7).

I have banished it
This final phrase emphasizes the completeness of God's judgment. The Hebrew root "גָּרַשׁ" (garash) means "to drive out" or "to expel." In the context of Ezekiel, it signifies the removal of a nation from its place of prominence due to its sin. This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the ultimate accountability all nations and individuals have before Him (Romans 14:12).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages, often through vivid imagery and allegories.

2. Assyria
Represented as a great cedar tree in this chapter, symbolizing its former power and majesty before its downfall due to pride and wickedness.

3. Ruler of the Nations
Likely referring to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against Assyria.

4. Babylon
The empire that conquered Assyria and was used by God to execute His judgment.

5. God's Judgment
The event of God handing over Assyria to Babylon as a consequence of its pride and wickedness.

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.

The Danger of Pride
Pride leads to downfall. Assyria's greatness led to arrogance, which ultimately resulted in its destruction.

Divine Judgment is Just
God's judgment is based on righteousness and justice. He deals with nations and individuals according to their actions.

God Uses Unlikely Instruments
God can use even those who do not know Him, like Nebuchadnezzar, to fulfill His divine plans.

Repentance and Humility
The account of Assyria serves as a warning to remain humble and repentant before God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the cedar tree in Ezekiel 31 help us understand the nature of Assyria's power and its downfall?

2. In what ways does the account of Assyria's judgment in Ezekiel 31 parallel the account of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4?

3. How can we apply the lesson of pride leading to downfall in our personal lives and communities today?

4. What does Ezekiel 31:11 teach us about God's sovereignty and His use of nations to accomplish His purposes?

5. How can we ensure that we remain humble and avoid the pitfalls of pride as seen in the example of Assyria?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 10
This chapter also speaks of Assyria as an instrument of God's judgment, highlighting the theme of God using nations to fulfill His purposes.

Daniel 4
Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great tree parallels the imagery in Ezekiel 31, emphasizing themes of pride and divine judgment.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks to the downfall that follows pride, a central theme in the judgment of Assyria.