Ezekiel 7:22

I will turn My face away from them, and they will defile My treasured place. Violent men will enter it, and they will defile it.

Study Bible

I will turn My face away from them
This phrase signifies a withdrawal of God's presence and favor. In the Hebrew context, the "face" of God (פָּנִים, panim) often represents His attention, presence, and blessing. When God turns His face away, it indicates a deliberate act of judgment and abandonment. Historically, this reflects the severe consequences of Israel's persistent idolatry and rebellion. Theologically, it serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of seeking God's presence and the peril of living in disobedience.

and they will desecrate My treasured place
The "treasured place" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which was considered the dwelling place of God among His people. The Hebrew word for "desecrate" (חָלַל, chalal) implies a profaning or defiling of something sacred. This phrase highlights the tragic irony that those who were meant to honor and protect the sanctity of the temple would instead defile it. It underscores the depth of Israel's spiritual decline and the seriousness with which God views the desecration of what is holy.

robbers will enter it
The term "robbers" (פָּרִיץ, paritz) can be understood as violent men or marauders. This phrase indicates that foreign invaders, likely the Babylonians, would breach the temple, an act that would have been unthinkable to the Israelites. Historically, this prophecy was fulfilled when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and the temple in 586 BC. It serves as a stark warning of the consequences of national and spiritual unfaithfulness.

and profane it
To "profane" (טָמֵא, tame) means to treat something sacred with irreverence or disrespect. This final phrase in the verse emphasizes the complete defilement of the temple, not just by the Israelites' actions but also by the invading forces. It reflects the ultimate result of turning away from God—what was once holy and set apart becomes common and defiled. This serves as a powerful call to maintain the sanctity of our relationship with God and the places dedicated to His worship.

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. God
The sovereign Lord who is pronouncing judgment on Israel for their idolatry and rebellion.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, now facing judgment due to their persistent sin and idolatry.

4. The Temple
Referred to as "My treasured place," it is the sacred site in Jerusalem where God's presence dwelt among His people.

5. Robbers
Symbolic of the invading forces (likely the Babylonians) who will desecrate the temple, representing God's judgment.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to separation from God, as seen in His turning away from Israel. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

The Holiness of God's Dwelling
The temple was desecrated due to Israel's sin. We are now God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16), and must strive to keep our lives holy.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgment is just and serves as a call to repentance. We should respond to His discipline with humility and a desire to return to Him.

The Importance of Repentance
Even in judgment, God’s desire is for His people to turn back to Him. Repentance restores our relationship with God.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While Ezekiel 7:22 speaks of judgment, the broader account of Scripture assures us of God's redemptive plan through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God turning His face away challenge your understanding of His character, and how can this understanding impact your daily walk with Him?

2. In what ways can modern believers fall into idolatry, and how can we guard against it in our personal lives?

3. Reflect on the significance of being God's temple today. How does this influence your actions and decisions?

4. How can we discern God's discipline in our lives, and what steps can we take to respond appropriately?

5. Consider the hope offered in the broader account of Scripture. How does this hope encourage you in times of personal or communal judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
Discusses the consequences of Israel's disobedience, including God turning His face away, which parallels the judgment in Ezekiel.

Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah warns of the coming destruction of the temple due to the people's false sense of security and idolatry.

2 Kings 25
Describes the actual historical event of the Babylonian invasion and the desecration of the temple.

Psalm 27
Contrasts the idea of God turning His face away with the psalmist's plea for God not to hide His face.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon as a symbol of God's ultimate judgment on sin and rebellion.