Ezekiel 39:21

I will display My glory among the nations, and all the nations will see the judgment that I execute and the hand that I lay upon them.

Study Bible

I will display My glory among the nations
I will display
The Hebrew root for "display" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, put, or set. In this context, it signifies God's active role in revealing His power and majesty. This is not a passive occurrence but a deliberate act of God to manifest His presence and authority. Historically, God's displays of glory have been through miraculous events, such as the parting of the Red Sea or the fall of Jericho, which served as undeniable evidence of His sovereignty.

My glory
The term "glory" in Hebrew is "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), which conveys a sense of weightiness, honor, and splendor. God's glory is His divine essence and majesty, often associated with His holiness and righteousness. In the biblical narrative, God's glory is a recurring theme, seen in the cloud that led the Israelites and the fire on Mount Sinai. It is a visible manifestation of His divine nature, meant to inspire awe and reverence.

among the nations
The phrase "among the nations" indicates the universal scope of God's revelation. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), referring to the Gentiles or non-Israelite peoples. This highlights God's intention to be recognized not only by Israel but by all peoples of the earth. Historically, this reflects the prophetic vision of a time when God's sovereignty will be acknowledged worldwide, fulfilling the promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his descendants (Genesis 12:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, displaying His glory and executing judgment.

2. Nations
Refers to the Gentile nations, witnessing God's glory and judgment.

3. Israel
Implicitly involved as the people through whom God’s glory is revealed.

4. Judgment
The act of divine justice executed by God, demonstrating His power and righteousness.

5. Glory
The manifestation of God's presence and power, visible to all nations.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God's ability to display His glory and execute judgment underscores His ultimate authority over all nations. Believers are reminded to trust in His sovereign plan.

Universal Witness
The display of God's glory among the nations highlights the universal scope of His revelation. Christians are called to be witnesses of God's glory in their own lives.

Judgment as a Revelation of Glory
God's judgment is not merely punitive but serves to reveal His righteousness and holiness. Believers should understand that divine justice is an aspect of God's glorious character.

Call to Repentance
The nations witnessing God's judgment are given an opportunity to turn to Him. This serves as a reminder for believers to live lives of repentance and encourage others to do the same.

Hope in God's Justice
The assurance of God's righteous judgment provides hope for believers facing injustice. It reassures them that God will ultimately set things right.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the display of God's glory among the nations in Ezekiel 39:21 relate to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

2. In what ways can believers today be witnesses of God's glory in their communities?

3. How does understanding God's judgment as an aspect of His glory affect our view of justice and righteousness?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to live lives that reflect God's glory to those around us?

5. How does the assurance of God's ultimate justice provide comfort and hope in the face of current global injustices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 66
This chapter also speaks of God's glory being revealed to all nations, emphasizing the universal scope of His majesty and judgment.

Revelation 19
Describes the final judgment and the display of God's glory, connecting the prophetic vision of Ezekiel with the eschatological fulfillment in Revelation.

Psalm 96
Calls for all nations to recognize the glory and strength of the Lord, paralleling the theme of God's glory being displayed among the nations.