Ezekiel 7:6

The end has come! The end has come! It has roused itself against you. Behold, it has come!

Study Bible

The end
The phrase "The end" in Ezekiel 7:6 signifies a definitive conclusion or termination. In Hebrew, the word used is "קֵץ" (qets), which conveys the idea of a boundary or limit. This term is often used in prophetic literature to denote the cessation of a period of time or the fulfillment of a divine decree. In the context of Ezekiel, it marks the impending judgment upon Israel due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. Historically, this reflects the Babylonian conquest and the destruction of Jerusalem, a pivotal moment that underscores the seriousness of God's warnings through His prophets.

has come
The phrase "has come" indicates the arrival or manifestation of the prophesied event. The Hebrew verb "בָּא" (ba) is used here, which means to come or to enter. This verb emphasizes the certainty and immediacy of the prophesied judgment. It is not a distant future event but a present reality that the people must face. This serves as a sobering reminder of the faithfulness of God's word and the inevitability of His justice when His people stray from His commandments.

the end
The repetition of "the end" reinforces the finality and seriousness of the message. In Hebrew literature, repetition is a common technique used to emphasize a point. Here, it underscores the irreversible nature of the judgment that is about to unfold. It is a call to attention, urging the listeners to recognize the gravity of their situation and the consequences of their actions. This repetition serves as a divine alarm, awakening the people to the urgency of repentance and the need to return to God.

has come
Again, the phrase "has come" is used to stress the immediacy and certainty of the event. The repetition of this phrase, along with "the end," creates a rhythmic and emphatic declaration that leaves no room for doubt or delay. It is a powerful reminder that God's patience, though long-suffering, has limits, and His justice will ultimately prevail. This serves as both a warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the importance of aligning one's life with God's will before it is too late.

it has awakened against you
The phrase "it has awakened against you" suggests a stirring or arousal of divine action. The Hebrew root "עוּר" (ur) means to rouse or awaken. This imagery conveys the idea that the judgment, which may have seemed dormant or delayed, is now active and directed towards the people. It is as if the consequences of their actions have been lying in wait and are now fully realized. This serves as a vivid illustration of the cause-and-effect nature of sin and the inevitable awakening of God's righteous judgment when His people persist in rebellion.

Behold, it has come!
The exclamation "Behold, it has come!" serves as a final, emphatic declaration of the reality of the situation. The Hebrew word "הִנֵּה" (hinneh) is often used to draw attention to something significant or to announce an important event. This call to "behold" is an invitation to witness the fulfillment of God's word and to recognize the seriousness of the moment. It is a call to awareness, urging the people to see the truth of their circumstances and the fulfillment of the prophetic warning. This serves as a powerful conclusion to the verse, leaving the audience with a sense of urgency and the need for immediate response.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the mouthpiece of God, delivering messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israel
The primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies, the nation of Israel is facing impending judgment due to their persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. Babylonian Exile
The historical context of Ezekiel's prophecies, where the Israelites are in captivity due to their disobedience to God.

4. Judgment
The central theme of this passage, where God declares the imminent end of His patience with Israel's sinfulness.

5. The End
Symbolic of the culmination of God's warnings and the onset of His righteous judgment against sin.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's declarations are sure and inevitable. Just as He declared the end for Israel, His promises and warnings are trustworthy and will come to pass.

The Call to Repentance
The announcement of the end serves as a final call to repentance. Believers today are reminded to examine their lives and turn away from sin.

The Urgency of the Gospel
The repeated emphasis on "the end" underscores the urgency of sharing the gospel. We are called to be diligent in spreading the message of salvation.

God's Sovereignty Over Time
God controls the timeline of history. Believers can find comfort in His sovereignty, knowing that He orchestrates events according to His perfect will.

Living in Readiness
Just as Israel was warned of the end, Christians are encouraged to live in readiness for Christ's return, maintaining faithfulness and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the certainty of God's judgment in Ezekiel 7:6 impact your understanding of His character and His promises?

2. In what ways can the urgency of "the end" motivate you to share the gospel with those around you?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's patience. How does this passage challenge you to respond to His warnings?

4. How can you apply the concept of living in readiness for Christ's return in your daily life?

5. Compare the themes of judgment in Ezekiel 7:6 with those in Revelation 22:12. What similarities and differences do you observe, and how do they inform your understanding of God's plan for the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Amos 8:2
Similar to Ezekiel, Amos speaks of the end coming upon Israel, emphasizing the certainty and imminence of God's judgment.

Revelation 22:12
This verse speaks of the end times and the return of Christ, drawing a parallel to the concept of "the end" as a time of divine reckoning.

Matthew 24:14
Jesus speaks of the end coming after the gospel is preached to all nations, highlighting the theme of divine timing and fulfillment.