Ezekiel 39:27

When I bring them back from the peoples and gather them out of the lands of their enemies, I will show My holiness in them in the sight of many nations.

Study Bible

When I bring them back
This phrase signifies God's sovereign action in restoring His people. The Hebrew root for "bring back" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to return or restore. This reflects God's covenant faithfulness and His commitment to the promises made to the patriarchs. Historically, this can be seen as a prophetic vision of the return from Babylonian exile, but it also points to a future, eschatological gathering of Israel. It emphasizes God's initiative and power in the redemption process.

from the peoples
The term "peoples" refers to the various nations among whom the Israelites were scattered. The Hebrew word "עַמִּים" (amim) is used, which often denotes Gentile nations. This scattering was a result of Israel's disobedience, but the regathering underscores God's mercy and the reversal of judgment. It highlights the inclusivity of God's plan, as He works through Israel to reach all nations.

and gather them out of the lands of their enemies
The act of gathering is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, symbolizing restoration and unity. The Hebrew word "קָבַץ" (qavats) means to collect or assemble. This gathering from "the lands of their enemies" indicates a complete and miraculous deliverance from oppression. It serves as a reminder of God's protective nature and His ability to transform situations of despair into hope.

I will show My holiness through them
God's holiness is a central theme in the book of Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for holiness, "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh), implies separation and purity. By showing His holiness "through them," God is demonstrating His sanctifying power in His people. This transformation is not just for Israel's benefit but serves as a testimony to the world of God's righteous character and His ability to redeem and purify.

in the sight of many nations
This phrase underscores the public and universal nature of God's actions. The Hebrew word for "nations," "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), often refers to Gentile nations. God's work in Israel is meant to be a witness to these nations, showcasing His glory and inviting them to recognize His sovereignty. It reflects the missional aspect of Israel's calling, to be a light to the nations, and points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom purposes on earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The sovereign Lord who promises to restore His people and demonstrate His holiness.

2. Israelites
The people of God who have been scattered among the nations due to their disobedience but are promised restoration.

3. Nations/Enemies
The foreign lands and peoples among whom the Israelites have been dispersed.

4. Restoration
The event of God bringing His people back to their land, signifying redemption and fulfillment of His promises.

5. Holiness of God
The divine attribute that God will manifest through the restoration of His people, demonstrating His power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God’s Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises. Despite Israel's disobedience, He remains committed to their restoration, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness.

Holiness as Witness
God’s holiness is revealed through His actions. The restoration of Israel serves as a testament to His holy nature and His power to fulfill His word.

Restoration and Redemption
The theme of restoration is central to God’s redemptive plan. Just as He restores Israel, He offers spiritual restoration to all who turn to Him.

God’s Sovereignty Over Nations
God’s ability to gather His people from among the nations underscores His sovereignty over all the earth. He orchestrates events to fulfill His divine purposes.

Living as a Testimony
Believers are called to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness, serving as a testimony to His transformative power in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of restoration in Ezekiel 39:27 reflect God’s character and His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can the restoration of Israel be seen as a foreshadowing of spiritual restoration available through Christ?

3. How does understanding God’s sovereignty over nations impact your view of current world events?

4. What are practical ways you can demonstrate God’s holiness in your daily life, serving as a witness to others?

5. How do the promises of restoration and redemption in the Old Testament encourage you in your personal faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:3-5
This passage speaks of God’s promise to restore Israel from captivity, similar to the promise in Ezekiel 39:27.

Isaiah 11:12
Describes God gathering the dispersed of Israel, aligning with the theme of restoration.

Jeremiah 32:37-41
God’s promise to bring His people back and establish an everlasting covenant, reflecting His faithfulness.

Ezekiel 36:23
God’s intention to sanctify His name through the restoration of Israel, paralleling the theme of holiness in Ezekiel 39:27.

Romans 11:26-27
Paul speaks of the future restoration of Israel, connecting the Old Testament promises to New Testament fulfillment.