Ezekiel 33:28

I will make the land a desolate waste, and the pride of her strength will come to an end. The mountains of Israel will become desolate, so that no one will pass through.

Study Bible

I will make the land a desolate waste
This phrase speaks to the severe judgment that God is pronouncing upon the land due to the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry. The Hebrew word for "desolate" is "שְׁמָמָה" (shemamah), which conveys utter devastation and ruin. Historically, this reflects the consequences faced by Israel and Judah when they turned away from God, leading to invasions and exile. The desolation serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God, who cannot tolerate iniquity.

and its proud strength will come to an end
"Proud strength" refers to the self-reliance and arrogance of the people, who trusted in their own power and alliances rather than in God. The Hebrew word for "proud" is "גָּאוֹן" (ga'on), which can also mean majesty or arrogance. This phrase underscores the biblical principle that pride precedes a fall (Proverbs 16:18). Historically, Israel's reliance on military might and foreign alliances instead of God led to their downfall. This serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of pride and self-sufficiency.

The mountains of Israel will become desolate
The "mountains of Israel" were often places of idolatrous worship, where high places and altars to false gods were erected. The Hebrew word for "mountains" is "הָרִים" (harim), which can also symbolize strength and stability. By making these mountains desolate, God is purging the land of idolatry and false worship. This act of desolation is both a judgment and a cleansing, preparing the way for future restoration and renewal.

so that no one will pass through
This phrase indicates complete abandonment and isolation. The Hebrew word for "pass through" is "עָבַר" (avar), which implies movement and activity. The cessation of passage signifies the totality of the desolation, as the land becomes uninhabitable and devoid of life. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, leading to spiritual and physical barrenness. It also points to the hope of restoration, as God often uses desolation as a precursor to renewal and redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. He is known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts.

2. The Land of Israel
The geographical area promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this context, it refers to the land that will become desolate due to the people's disobedience.

3. The Mountains of Israel
Symbolic of the strength and pride of the nation. They are mentioned as becoming desolate, indicating the complete devastation that will occur.

4. Desolation
A state of emptiness and destruction that God declares will come upon the land due to the people's sins and rebellion.

5. Proud Strength
Refers to the self-reliance and arrogance of the Israelites, which will be humbled by God's judgment.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
God's warnings are clear; persistent disobedience leads to judgment and desolation. We must heed His commands and live in obedience.

The Futility of Pride
Human strength and pride are nothing before God. True strength comes from humility and reliance on Him.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is just and sovereign, and His judgments are righteous. We must trust in His wisdom and submit to His authority.

The Call to Repentance
Even in judgment, there is a call to repentance. God desires restoration and relationship with His people.

Hope Beyond Desolation
While the immediate message is one of desolation, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and hope for those who turn back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the desolation of the land in Ezekiel 33:28 reflect the spiritual state of the people of Israel?

2. In what ways can pride lead to spiritual desolation in our own lives, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the theme of judgment in Ezekiel 33:28 connect with the broader biblical account of sin and redemption?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' experience about the importance of obedience to God's commands?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's promises of restoration, even when facing the consequences of our actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including desolation of the land, which parallels the warning in Ezekiel 33:28.

Jeremiah 25
Jeremiah also prophesies about the desolation of the land due to the people's unfaithfulness, reinforcing the message of judgment.

Isaiah 1
Isaiah speaks of the desolation that comes from rebellion against God, highlighting the consistent message of the prophets regarding sin and its consequences.