Ezekiel 39:7

So I will make My holy name known among My people Israel and will no longer allow it to be profaned. Then the nations will know that I am the LORD, the Holy One in Israel.

Study Bible

So I will make My holy name known
The phrase "My holy name" in Hebrew is "שֵׁם קָדְשִׁי" (shem qodshi). The concept of God's name being holy is deeply rooted in the Hebrew understanding of God's character and reputation. In ancient Israel, a name was more than just a label; it represented the essence and authority of a person. God's name being made known signifies a revelation of His true nature and power. Historically, this reflects God's desire to be recognized not just by Israel but by all nations as the one true God, distinct from the idols worshiped by surrounding peoples.

among My people Israel
The term "My people Israel" emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and the nation of Israel. This covenant, established with Abraham and reaffirmed through Moses, is central to the identity of Israel as God's chosen people. Archaeological evidence, such as ancient inscriptions and artifacts, supports the historical existence of Israel as a distinct nation with unique religious practices. This phrase underscores God's commitment to His people and His intention to restore and protect them, even amidst their failures.

and will no longer allow it to be profaned
The word "profaned" comes from the Hebrew "חָלַל" (chalal), meaning to defile or desecrate. In the biblical context, profaning God's name involved actions or behaviors that misrepresented His holiness and authority. Historically, Israel's idolatry and alliances with pagan nations often led to the profaning of God's name. This declaration is a promise of divine intervention to uphold the sanctity of His name, ensuring that it is honored and revered among His people and the world.

Then the nations will know
The phrase "the nations will know" reflects a recurring theme in Ezekiel, where God's actions are intended to demonstrate His sovereignty to all peoples. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), often referring to non-Israelite peoples. This highlights God's universal plan for salvation and His desire for all nations to recognize His lordship. Historically, this was a radical concept, as most ancient cultures had localized deities. God's revelation to the nations signifies a breaking of these boundaries, asserting His dominion over all creation.

that I am the LORD
The declaration "I am the LORD" uses the divine name "YHWH" (Yahweh), which is central to God's self-revelation in the Hebrew Scriptures. This name, often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles, signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature. It is a reminder of His covenant faithfulness and unchanging character. In the context of Ezekiel, this affirmation serves as a powerful reminder of God's ultimate authority and the fulfillment of His promises.

the Holy One in Israel
The title "the Holy One in Israel" emphasizes God's unique and set-apart nature. The Hebrew word for "holy" is "קָדוֹשׁ" (qadosh), meaning sacred or consecrated. This title underscores God's moral perfection and His distinctiveness from all other gods. In the historical and scriptural context, it serves as a reminder of God's intimate involvement with Israel, His chosen people, and His commitment to their redemption and sanctification. This phrase encapsulates the hope and assurance that God will ultimately vindicate His holiness and establish His kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, emphasizing His holiness and sovereignty.

2. Israel
The chosen people of God, through whom He reveals His name and holiness.

3. Nations (Gentiles)
The surrounding peoples who will come to recognize the holiness and sovereignty of God.

4. Ezekiel
The prophet through whom God delivers this message, serving as a mediator between God and Israel.

5. Profanation of God's Name
The act of disrespecting or defiling God's holy name, which God promises to end.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God's Name
God's name is intrinsically holy, and He is committed to ensuring it is revered among His people and the nations.

God's Sovereignty and Revelation
God actively reveals His sovereignty and holiness, ensuring that both His people and the nations recognize His authority.

The Importance of Reverence
As believers, we are called to honor and uphold the holiness of God's name in our words and actions.

God's Faithfulness to His People
Despite Israel's past failures, God remains faithful to His covenant, revealing His name and holiness to them.

Witness to the Nations
The recognition of God's holiness by the nations serves as a testament to His power and the truth of His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God's holiness in Ezekiel 39:7 challenge us to live differently in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not profaning God's name in our personal and communal worship?

3. How does the promise of God making His name known among the nations encourage us in our evangelistic efforts?

4. What parallels can we draw between God's revelation of His name in Ezekiel and His ultimate revelation in Jesus Christ?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 39:7 to foster a deeper reverence for God in our church communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 22:32
This verse emphasizes the importance of not profaning God's holy name, a theme echoed in Ezekiel 39:7.

Isaiah 52:6
Similar to Ezekiel, this passage speaks of God revealing His name to His people, ensuring they know He is the LORD.

Ezekiel 36:23
Earlier in Ezekiel, God promises to sanctify His great name, which has been profaned among the nations.

Psalm 46:10
This verse speaks to the recognition of God's sovereignty among the nations, aligning with the message in Ezekiel 39:7.

Revelation 15:4
This New Testament passage reflects the ultimate recognition of God's holiness by all nations.