Ezekiel 5:14

I will make you a ruin and a disgrace among the nations around you, in the sight of all who pass by.

Study Bible

I will make you
This phrase indicates the direct action of God upon Jerusalem. The Hebrew root here is "שָׂם" (sam), meaning "to place" or "to set." It emphasizes God's sovereign authority and intentionality in His actions. In the context of Ezekiel, God is not acting capriciously but is executing judgment as a response to the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry. This serves as a reminder of God's holiness and justice, and His active role in the affairs of nations.

a ruin
The Hebrew word used here is "חָרְבָּה" (chorbah), which means "desolation" or "waste." This term is often used in the Old Testament to describe the aftermath of divine judgment. Historically, Jerusalem's destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BC fulfilled this prophecy. The city, once vibrant and full of life, became a symbol of devastation due to the people's failure to uphold their covenant with God. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands.

and a reproach
The word "reproach" comes from the Hebrew "חֶרְפָּה" (cherpah), meaning "scorn" or "disgrace." This indicates not only physical destruction but also a loss of honor and respect among the nations. Jerusalem, which was meant to be a beacon of God's presence and glory, became a byword for shame. This highlights the spiritual dimension of the judgment, where the people's sin led to a tarnished reputation and a failure to reflect God's holiness to the world.

among the nations around you
This phrase underscores the public nature of Jerusalem's judgment. The surrounding nations, who were witnesses to Israel's unique relationship with God, would see the consequences of their rebellion. Historically, Israel was situated at the crossroads of major civilizations, making its fate a matter of international observation. This serves as a warning that God's people are called to be a testimony to the world, and their actions have far-reaching implications.

in the sight of all who pass by
The Hebrew root "עָבַר" (avar) means "to pass over" or "to pass by." This phrase suggests that the judgment would be visible and evident to all, not hidden or obscure. It implies that the lessons from Jerusalem's downfall were meant to be observed and learned by others. In a broader scriptural context, this serves as a call for self-examination and repentance, urging believers to live in a way that honors God and serves as a positive witness to those around them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. His role was to communicate God's judgment and hope.

2. Jerusalem
The city that is the focus of God's judgment in this passage. It was the center of Jewish worship and identity, now facing destruction due to the people's disobedience.

3. The Nations
Refers to the surrounding peoples and countries who would witness Jerusalem's downfall and serve as a testament to God's judgment.

4. God's Judgment
The event of divine retribution against Jerusalem for its idolatry and rebellion against God.

5. Exile
The broader context of the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites were taken captive, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has real and severe consequences. Just as Jerusalem faced ruin, our disobedience can lead to spiritual and sometimes physical destruction.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is just and sovereign, and His judgments are righteous. We must trust in His wisdom and justice, even when it leads to difficult outcomes.

A Call to Repentance
The passage serves as a warning and a call to repentance. We should examine our lives and turn away from anything that separates us from God.

Witness to the Nations
Our lives, like Jerusalem, are a testimony to those around us. We should strive to be a positive witness of God's love and righteousness.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While this passage focuses on judgment, the broader account of Ezekiel includes restoration. God's ultimate plan is one of redemption and hope.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the judgment of Jerusalem in Ezekiel 5:14 reflect the consequences of disobedience outlined in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and justice in the events described in Ezekiel 5:14, and how should this influence our view of current world events?

3. What are some areas in our lives where we need to heed the warning of Ezekiel 5:14 and turn back to God in repentance?

4. How can we ensure that our lives serve as a positive witness to those around us, in contrast to the negative example of Jerusalem?

5. Considering the broader account of Ezekiel, how can we find hope and assurance in God's plan for restoration, even amidst judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which parallels the judgment pronounced in Ezekiel 5:14.

Deuteronomy 28
Similar to Leviticus, this chapter details the consequences of Israel's faithfulness or unfaithfulness, providing a backdrop for understanding the severity of Jerusalem's punishment.

Jeremiah 25
Jeremiah also prophesies about the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile, reinforcing the message of judgment found in Ezekiel.

2 Kings 25
The historical account of Jerusalem's fall to Babylon, providing a account context for Ezekiel's prophecy.