Ezekiel 7:15

The sword is outside; plague and famine are within. Those in the country will die by the sword, and those in the city will be devoured by famine and plague.

Study Bible

The sword is outside
The phrase "The sword is outside" refers to the imminent threat of military invasion and violence. In the Hebrew context, the word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) often symbolizes war and divine judgment. Historically, this reflects the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, where the external threat was very real and present. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments, as the Israelites had done. The sword represents the physical manifestation of God's judgment against a nation that has forsaken His ways.

plague and famine are within
"Plague and famine are within" speaks to the internal devastation that accompanies external threats. The Hebrew word for "plague" (דֶּבֶר, deber) can also mean pestilence, a common form of divine punishment in the Old Testament. "Famine" (רָעָב, ra'av) signifies a severe shortage of food, often seen as a direct result of disobedience to God. This phrase highlights the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, affecting both the external and internal aspects of life. It serves as a sobering reminder that sin leads to both physical and spiritual desolation.

Those in the field will die by the sword
This phrase underscores the inevitability of judgment for those who are outside the city, in the open fields. The "field" represents vulnerability and exposure, where there is no protection from the invading forces. The use of "die by the sword" reiterates the certainty of death for those who are unprotected. It is a call to recognize the futility of relying on one's own strength or position when facing divine judgment. Historically, this was a literal reality for those who attempted to flee the Babylonian army.

and those in the city will be devoured by famine and plague
The city, often seen as a place of refuge and safety, is not spared from judgment. "Devoured by famine and plague" indicates the inescapable nature of God's wrath. The Hebrew word for "devoured" (אָכַל, akal) conveys a sense of being consumed or destroyed. This phrase serves as a stark warning that no place is safe from the consequences of sin. It emphasizes the totality of God's judgment, affecting every aspect of life and leaving no room for escape. Spiritually, it calls believers to seek refuge not in physical structures but in the Lord Himself.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is delivering God's message of impending judgment on Jerusalem and Judah due to their persistent sin and rebellion.

2. Jerusalem
The city facing imminent destruction due to its inhabitants' idolatry and disobedience to God. It serves as the central location of the prophecy.

3. Babylonian Exile
The historical context of Ezekiel's prophecies, where the Israelites are experiencing the consequences of their unfaithfulness to God.

4. Sword, Plague, and Famine
Symbols of God's judgment. The sword represents external threats and warfare, while plague and famine signify internal suffering and divine punishment.

5. Field and City
Represent the totality of the land and its people, indicating that no one will escape God's judgment, whether they are outside in the fields or inside the city.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's warnings through His prophets are not idle threats. The fulfillment of these prophecies in history underscores the certainty of His judgment against sin.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has real and devastating consequences. The imagery of sword, plague, and famine serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign over all events, including judgment. He uses various means to accomplish His purposes, demonstrating His control over both natural and human affairs.

The Call to Repentance
While judgment is certain, God's desire is for repentance. The warnings serve as a call to turn back to God and seek His mercy.

Hope in God's Faithfulness
Even in judgment, there is hope. God's ultimate plan includes restoration and redemption for those who turn to Him in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of sword, plague, and famine in Ezekiel 7:15 reflect the consequences outlined in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28?

2. In what ways does the certainty of God's judgment in Ezekiel's time encourage us to live righteously today?

3. How can we see God's sovereignty in the events described in Ezekiel 7:15, and how does this understanding affect our trust in Him?

4. What steps can we take to heed the call to repentance in our own lives, in light of the warnings given to Jerusalem?

5. How does the message of hope and restoration found in other parts of Ezekiel provide comfort amidst the harsh realities of judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28
These chapters outline the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including sword, plague, and famine, which are echoed in Ezekiel's prophecy.

Jeremiah 14
Jeremiah also speaks of sword, famine, and plague as instruments of God's judgment, reinforcing the message of inevitable consequences for sin.

Revelation 6
The imagery of sword, famine, and plague is mirrored in the apocalyptic visions, showing the continuity of God's judgment throughout Scripture.