Ezekiel 38:17

This is what the Lord GOD says: Are you the one of whom I have spoken in former days through My servants, the prophets of Israel, who in those times prophesied for years that I would bring you against them?

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase introduces a divine oracle, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," which underscores God's supreme authority and covenantal relationship with Israel. This introduction sets the stage for a message of significant importance, reminding the reader of God's ultimate control over history and nations.

Are you the one
This rhetorical question is directed towards Gog, a figure representing a coalition of nations. The question implies a challenge and a fulfillment of prophecy. It suggests that the events unfolding are not random but are part of a divine plan previously revealed. The use of "you" personalizes the message, indicating a specific and foreordained role in God's prophetic timeline.

of whom I have spoken in former days
This phrase refers to the continuity and consistency of God's prophetic word. The "former days" alludes to the longstanding nature of God's revelations, possibly referring to earlier prophetic writings or oral traditions. It highlights the reliability and unchanging nature of God's word, which has been communicated through His prophets over time.

through My servants the prophets of Israel
The prophets are described as "My servants," indicating their role as faithful messengers of God's word. This phrase underscores the divine origin of their messages and their dedication to conveying God's will. The prophets of Israel were instrumental in warning, guiding, and preparing the nation for future events, including the eschatological battles described in Ezekiel.

who in those days prophesied for years
This emphasizes the duration and persistence of the prophetic message. The prophets consistently warned of future events, demonstrating their commitment to God's mission despite opposition or disbelief. The phrase "for years" suggests a long-term, sustained effort to communicate God's plans, reinforcing the seriousness and inevitability of the prophesied events.

that I would bring you against them?
This part of the verse reveals God's active role in orchestrating the events described. The phrase "I would bring you" indicates divine sovereignty and purpose, suggesting that even adversarial forces are under God's control and serve His ultimate plan. The "against them" refers to Israel, highlighting the tension and conflict that will arise but also implying that these events are part of a larger redemptive narrative. This serves as a reminder of God's protective and restorative intentions for His people, even amidst trials.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign ruler and divine authority who speaks through the prophets.

2. Gog
A leader or entity that is prophesied to come against Israel. The identity of Gog is debated, but he represents forces opposed to God's people.

3. Prophets of Israel
God's messengers who delivered His words and warnings to the people of Israel.

4. Israel
The nation chosen by God, often facing threats from surrounding nations.

5. Former Times
Refers to the past prophecies given by God through His prophets concerning future events.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God is in control of history and uses even the plans of His enemies to fulfill His purposes.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The prophecies given by God through His prophets are reliable and will come to pass, affirming the trustworthiness of Scripture.

Spiritual Vigilance
Believers should remain vigilant and prepared for spiritual battles, knowing that God has already declared the victory.

Role of Prophets
The prophets serve as a reminder of God's communication with His people and the importance of heeding His warnings.

Hope in God's Deliverance
Despite the threats and challenges faced, God's people can have hope in His ultimate deliverance and victory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 38:17 impact your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can the role of the prophets in Israel's history inspire us to listen to God's Word today?

3. How can the prophecy of Gog in Ezekiel 38 encourage believers to remain spiritually vigilant?

4. What connections can you find between the prophecies in Ezekiel and the events described in Revelation 20?

5. How does the assurance of God's ultimate victory over His enemies provide hope and encouragement in your personal life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 39
Continues the prophecy concerning Gog and the ultimate victory of God over His enemies.

Revelation 20
Describes a final battle involving Gog and Magog, symbolizing the ultimate defeat of evil.

Isaiah 34
Speaks of God's judgment against the nations, similar to the themes in Ezekiel 38.

Jeremiah 1
Highlights the role of prophets as God's mouthpieces, similar to the prophets mentioned in Ezekiel 38:17.

Daniel 11
Contains prophecies about future conflicts involving God's people, paralleling the themes in Ezekiel.