Ezekiel 39:26

They will forget their disgrace and all the treachery they committed against Me, when they dwell securely in their land, with no one to frighten them.

Study Bible

They will forget their disgrace
The Hebrew word for "forget" is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which implies a complete removal from memory. In the context of Israel's history, disgrace often refers to the shame associated with idolatry and rebellion against God. This phrase suggests a divine act of grace, where God not only forgives but also heals the memories of past failures. Theologically, this points to the transformative power of God's forgiveness, which not only absolves sin but also restores dignity.

and all the treachery they committed against Me
"Treachery" in Hebrew is "מַעַל" (ma'al), indicating betrayal or unfaithfulness. Historically, Israel's treachery involved turning to other gods and breaking the covenant with Yahweh. This phrase underscores the gravity of their sin, yet it is juxtaposed with the promise of forgiveness. It highlights God's enduring faithfulness despite human infidelity, a theme prevalent throughout the prophetic books.

when they dwell securely in their land
The word "securely" comes from the Hebrew "בֶּטַח" (betach), meaning safety or confidence. This security is not merely physical but also spiritual, reflecting a restored relationship with God. The promise of dwelling securely in the land is reminiscent of the covenantal blessings promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It signifies a return to the ideal state of peace and prosperity under God's protection.

with no one to frighten them
The absence of fear is a significant promise, especially considering Israel's history of invasions and exile. The phrase suggests a future time of peace and divine protection, aligning with eschatological visions found in other prophetic writings. It points to a messianic hope where God's people live in harmony, free from external threats. This assurance of safety is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The primary subject of this prophecy, representing the people of God who have experienced disgrace and treachery but are promised restoration and security.

2. God
The speaker in this passage, who promises to restore Israel and remove their disgrace.

3. Disgrace and Treachery
Refers to the sins and unfaithfulness of Israel against God, which led to their exile and suffering.

4. Security in the Land
The future promise of peace and safety for Israel, indicating a time of restoration and divine favor.

5. Ezekiel
The prophet through whom God delivers this message, serving as a mediator of God's promises and warnings.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Restoration
Despite Israel's past sins, God promises restoration, highlighting His faithfulness and mercy.

The Consequences of Sin
Israel's disgrace and treachery serve as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

The Promise of Security
God's promise of dwelling securely reflects His ultimate plan for peace and safety for His people.

Forgetting Past Disgrace
The assurance that past sins will be forgotten encourages believers to seek forgiveness and embrace God's grace.

Living in God's Promises
Believers are called to live in the security and peace that come from trusting in God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of forgetting disgrace in Ezekiel 39:26 encourage you in your personal walk with God?

2. In what ways can the themes of disgrace and restoration in Ezekiel 39:26 be seen in the broader account of the Bible?

3. How does the promise of security in the land relate to the peace that believers can experience today?

4. What practical steps can you take to live in the assurance of God's promises, as seen in Ezekiel 39:26?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Jeremiah 31 and Hebrews 8, deepen your understanding of God's plan for restoration and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
Discusses the blessings of obedience and the consequences of disobedience, similar themes of disgrace and restoration.

Jeremiah 31
Speaks of a new covenant and the forgiveness of sins, paralleling the promise of forgetting disgrace.

Isaiah 54
Describes the removal of shame and the promise of peace, echoing the themes of security and restoration.

Romans 11
Discusses the future restoration of Israel, connecting to the prophetic promise of dwelling securely.

Hebrews 8
References the new covenant and the forgiveness of sins, aligning with the theme of forgetting past treachery.