Ezekiel 6:12

He who is far off will die by the plague, he who is near will fall by the sword, and he who remains will die by famine. So I will vent My fury upon them.

Study Bible

He who is far off
This phrase refers to those Israelites who were exiled or scattered far from their homeland. In the Hebrew context, the word used here can imply both physical distance and spiritual separation from God. Historically, the Israelites experienced exile as a consequence of their disobedience, which serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God's covenant. Theologically, it underscores the idea that distance from God, whether physical or spiritual, results in a loss of divine protection and blessing.

will die by plague
The term "plague" in this context is a divine judgment, often seen as a direct consequence of sin. In the Hebrew Bible, plagues are frequently used as instruments of God's wrath, intended to bring about repentance and return to righteousness. This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the inevitable consequences that follow when a nation or individual turns away from God's commandments.

he who is near
This phrase contrasts with "he who is far off," referring to those who remain in the land of Israel. The proximity here is not just geographical but also spiritual, as those who are near have the opportunity to witness God's presence in the temple and the land. However, their nearness does not exempt them from judgment, highlighting the impartiality of God's justice.

will fall by the sword
The sword is a common biblical symbol of war and destruction. In this context, it represents the physical violence and warfare that would befall those who remained in the land. Historically, this was fulfilled through the invasions and conquests by foreign powers. Theologically, it serves as a warning that proximity to holy places or traditions does not guarantee safety from judgment if one's heart is not aligned with God's will.

and he who is spared and survives
This phrase introduces a glimmer of hope amidst the pronouncement of judgment. The Hebrew root here suggests a remnant, a small group that God preserves for His purposes. This concept of a remnant is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing God's mercy and the continuation of His covenant promises despite widespread unfaithfulness.

will die by famine
Famine, like plague and sword, is another form of divine judgment. It represents a lack of sustenance and the basic necessities of life, often seen as a result of the land's desolation due to sin. In the biblical narrative, famine is both a literal and metaphorical expression of spiritual barrenness, urging the people to seek sustenance in God alone.

So I will expend My wrath upon them
This concluding phrase encapsulates the purpose of the judgments described. The Hebrew word for "wrath" conveys a deep, righteous anger that is a response to sin and rebellion. God's wrath is not arbitrary but is a necessary aspect of His holiness and justice. This serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, while also pointing to the hope of restoration for those who turn back to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are the primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies, facing judgment due to their idolatry and disobedience.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a significant backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Plague, Sword, Famine
Instruments of God's judgment mentioned in this verse, symbolizing comprehensive destruction and divine retribution.

5. God's Fury
Represents God's righteous anger and judgment against the sin and idolatry of His people.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's judgment is inevitable for those who persist in sin. This should lead us to repentance and a renewed commitment to holiness.

The Comprehensive Nature of Sin's Consequences
Sin affects every aspect of life, and God's judgment is thorough. We must be vigilant in avoiding sin and its pervasive effects.

God's Righteous Anger
Understanding God's fury against sin should deepen our reverence for Him and our desire to live in accordance with His will.

Hope in Repentance
While this passage speaks of judgment, the broader context of Ezekiel includes promises of restoration for those who turn back to God.

The Importance of Obedience
This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands to avoid the consequences of disobedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our comprehension of Ezekiel 6:12?

2. In what ways do the instruments of judgment (plague, sword, famine) reflect the seriousness of sin in our lives today?

3. How can we reconcile the image of a loving God with the depiction of His fury in this passage?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgments in Ezekiel and the warnings found in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 6:12 to our personal walk with God, particularly in terms of obedience and repentance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, similar to the judgments described in Ezekiel 6:12.

Jeremiah 24
Jeremiah also speaks of the fate of those who are near and far, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's judgment.

Revelation 6
The imagery of sword, famine, and plague is echoed in the apocalyptic visions of Revelation, highlighting the consistency of God's judgment throughout Scripture.