◄ Ezekiel 36 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
A Prophecy to the Mountains of Israel 1“And you, son of man, prophesy to the mountains of Israel and say: O mountains of Israel, hear the word of the LORD. 2This is what the Lord GOD says: Because the enemy has said of you, ‘Aha! The ancient heights have become our possession,’ 3therefore prophesy and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says: Because they have made you desolate and have trampled you on every side, so that you became a possession of the rest of the nations and were taken up in slander by the lips of their talkers, 4therefore, O mountains of Israel, hear the word of the Lord GOD. This is what the Lord GOD says to the mountains and hills, to the ravines and valleys, to the desolate ruins and abandoned cities, which have become a spoil and a mockery to the rest of the nations around you. 5Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Surely in My burning zeal I have spoken against the rest of the nations, and against all Edom, who took My land as their own possession with wholehearted joy and utter contempt, so that its pastureland became plunder. 6Therefore, prophesy concerning the land of Israel and tell the mountains and hills, the ravines and valleys, that this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I have spoken in My burning zeal because you have endured the reproach of the nations. 7Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I have sworn with an uplifted hand that surely the nations around you will endure reproach of their own. 8But you, O mountains of Israel, will produce branches and bear fruit for My people Israel, for they will soon come home. 9For behold, I am on your side; I will turn toward you, and you will be tilled and sown. 10I will multiply the people upon you—the house of Israel in its entirety. The cities will be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt. 11I will fill you with people and animals, and they will multiply and be fruitful. I will make you as inhabited as you once were, and I will make you prosper more than before. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 12Yes, I will cause My people Israel to walk upon you; they will possess you, and you will be their inheritance, and you will no longer deprive them of their children. 13For this is what the Lord GOD says: Because people say to you, ‘You devour men and deprive your nation of its children,’ 14therefore you will no longer devour men or deprive your nation of its children, declares the Lord GOD. 15I will no longer allow the taunts of the nations to be heard against you, and you will no longer endure the reproach of the peoples or cause your nation to stumble, declares the Lord GOD.” A New Heart and a New Spirit (Romans 8:9–11; Galatians 5:16–26) 16Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 17“Son of man, when the people of Israel lived in their land, they defiled it by their own ways and deeds. Their behavior before Me was like the uncleanness of a woman’s impurity. 18So I poured out My wrath upon them because of the blood they had shed on the land, and because they had defiled it with their idols. 19I dispersed them among the nations, and they were scattered throughout the lands. I judged them according to their ways and deeds. 20And wherever they went among the nations, they profaned My holy name, because it was said of them, ‘These are the people of the LORD, yet they had to leave His land.’ 21But I had concern for My holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the nations to which they had gone. 22Therefore tell the house of Israel that this is what the Lord GOD says: It is not for your sake that I will act, O house of Israel, but for My holy name, which you profaned among the nations to which you went. 23I will show the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations—the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the LORD, declares the Lord GOD, when I show My holiness in you before their eyes. 24For I will take you from among the nations and gather you out of all the countries, and I will bring you back into your own land. 25I will also sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurities and all your idols. 26I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances. 28Then you will live in the land that I gave your forefathers; you will be My people, and I will be your God. 29I will save you from all your uncleanness. I will summon the grain and make it plentiful, and I will not bring famine upon you. 30I will also make the fruit of the trees and the crops of the field plentiful, so that you will no longer bear reproach among the nations on account of famine. 31Then you will remember your evil ways and wicked deeds, and you will loathe yourselves for your iniquities and abominations. 32It is not for your sake that I will act, declares the Lord GOD—let it be known to you. Be ashamed and disgraced for your ways, O house of Israel! 33This is what the Lord GOD says: On the day I cleanse you from all your iniquities, I will cause the cities to be resettled and the ruins to be rebuilt. 34The desolate land will be cultivated instead of lying desolate in the sight of all who pass through. 35Then they will say, ‘This land that was desolate has become like the garden of Eden. The cities that were once ruined, desolate, and destroyed are now fortified and inhabited.’ 36Then the nations around you that remain will know that I, the LORD, have rebuilt what was destroyed, and I have replanted what was desolate. I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will do it. 37This is what the Lord GOD says: Once again I will hear the plea of the house of Israel and do for them this: I will multiply their people like a flock. 38Like the numerous flocks for sacrifices at Jerusalem during her appointed feasts, so the ruined cities will be filled with flocks of people. Then they will know that I am the LORD.” Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 36 Summary A Prophecy to the Mountains of Israel Verses 1–7 – Consolation to the Mountains The Lord speaks to the mountains, hills, ravines, and valleys of Israel that have been ridiculed by surrounding nations. He promises that the nations that plundered and mocked them will themselves suffer shame, for “I have spoken in My burning zeal because you have endured the reproach of the nations” (v. 6). Verses 8–15 – Blessings Promised to the Land The same land will now “put forth branches and bear fruit for My people Israel, for they will soon come home” (v. 8). Population, produce, and protection will increase. No longer will the land “bereave them of their children” (v. 12) or hear scorn from neighbors. Verses 16–21 – Israel’s Past Defilement Israel had defiled the land with bloodshed and idols. Because of this, God scattered them and “judged them according to their ways” (v. 19). Yet even in exile they profaned His name before the nations, giving unbelievers reason to doubt His power. Verses 22–32 – God’s Restoration for His Name’s Sake The turning point comes not because Israel earned it but because God will “vindicate the holiness of My great name” (v. 23). He gathers them from every land, sprinkles clean water on them, removes their heart of stone, gives a heart of flesh, and puts His Spirit within them so they desire to obey. They will remember their sins with disgust, recognizing grace. Verses 33–38 – A Flourishing Land and Multiplied People Once cleansed, the people will see ruined cities rebuilt. “The desolate land will become like the garden of Eden” (v. 35) and the population will swell “like the flock at Jerusalem during her appointed feasts” (v. 38). Surrounding nations will know the LORD did it. Ezekiel 36 is a powerful testament to God's love and commitment to His chosen people, the Israelites. Through the prophet Ezekiel, God assures His people of restoration, spiritual revival, and a renewed covenant. This chapter is known for its vivid imagery and its emphatic declaration of God's intention to vindicate His holy name. Historical Background Ezekiel prophesied from Babylon during the exile (593–571 BC). Chapter 36 follows years of judgment oracles against Judah and foreign powers (ch. 1-35) and sets up the valley-of-dry-bones vision (ch. 37). In 586 BC Jerusalem lay in ruins, but this chapter promises a turnaround rooted in God’s faithfulness to Abraham’s covenant (Genesis 12:1-3). Geography: The Mountains of Israel The phrase points to the central spine of highlands—from Hebron through Bethel to Shechem and beyond. These ridges bore the brunt of Babylonian invasion and later became contested by Edomites and Samaritans. Addressing the land itself underscores that God’s covenant involves soil as well as souls. Archaeological Notes • Babylonian records confirm the deportations Ezekiel describes. • Post-exilic remains in Jerusalem show a population surge during the Persian period, echoing vv. 33-38. • Restoration agriculture: terraces, cisterns, and winepresses dating to the fifth–fourth centuries BC illustrate the land “cultivated and sown” again (v. 34). Theological Highlights 1. Divine Initiative: “It is not for your sake… but for the sake of My holy name” (v. 22). Salvation begins with God’s character, not human merit. 2. Inner Renewal: The heart-of-stone/heart-of-flesh contrast (v. 26) signals moral transformation, not mere ritual reform. 3. Spirit Empowerment: “I will put My Spirit within you” (v. 27) bridges exile to Pentecost (Acts 2:17-18). New Heart and Spirit Jeremiah 31:33 promises a new covenant written on hearts. Joel 2:28-29 foretells the Spirit poured out. Jesus links both when He speaks of being “born of water and the Spirit” (John 3:5). Paul echoes Ezekiel in Titus 3:5, “He saved us… through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” Sanctifying the Name of the LORD God’s “name” stands for His reputation. Israel’s exile made nations scoff, but restoration forces them to admit, “The LORD has done great things for them” (Psalm 126:2). Jesus teaches believers to pray, “Hallowed be Your name” (Matthew 6:9), continuing the theme. Connections to Other Scriptures • Land blessings mirror Deuteronomy 30:1-10. • Heart change parallels Psalm 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart.” • The garden-of-Eden imagery recalls Isaiah 51:3; Revelation 22:1-3. • Multiplication of people links to Hosea 1:10; Zechariah 10:8-10. • Protection from scorn answers Psalm 79:9-10. Practical Application – God can revive what looks hopeless—be that a ruined nation, church, or individual life. – True change flows from the inside out; rules cannot replace a new heart. – When God blesses His people, outsiders notice. Believers today carry His name, so integrity matters. – The Spirit’s indwelling provides power to obey, not just forgiveness after failing. Prophetic Fulfillment: Past, Present, Future Past: A partial return occurred under Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, and agricultural recovery began. Present: Modern Israel’s regathering and land cultivation echo vv. 8-10, though full spiritual renewal awaits widespread acceptance of Messiah. Future: Ultimate fulfillment points to Christ’s return, when Israel embraces the new covenant fully (Romans 11:25-27) and the land flourishes without fear. Conclusion Ezekiel 36 moves from reproach to restoration, tracing a path of cleansing, new life, and overflowing blessing. The chapter lifts weary exiles—and today’s readers—with the assurance that God keeps His promises, changes hearts, and makes the desolate places bloom. Connections to Additional Scriptures Jeremiah 31:33 But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD. I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people. This verse parallels the promise of a new heart and spirit in Ezekiel 36. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come! This New Testament passage echoes the theme of transformation and renewal. Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. David's prayer for a clean heart aligns with the cleansing and renewal promised in Ezekiel 36. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and Promise of Restoration Therefore prophesy concerning the land of Israel and say to the mountains and hills, to the ravines and valleys: ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I have spoken in My jealousy and in My wrath, because you have endured the reproach of the nations.’ (Ezekiel 36:6) God promises to restore the land of Israel, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant. The Cleansing and Renewal of Israel I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. (Ezekiel 36:25) God promises spiritual renewal, cleansing His people from their sins and idolatry. A New Heart and Spirit I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 36:26) The transformation of the heart is central to God's plan, emphasizing the internal change that accompanies external restoration. The Purpose of Restoration Then the nations will know that I am the LORD, declares the Lord GOD, when I show My holiness in you before their eyes. (Ezekiel 36:23) God's restoration serves a greater purpose: to reveal His holiness and power to the nations. Practical Applications Trust in God's Promises Just as God promised to restore Israel, we can trust His promises for our lives, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them. Seek Spiritual Renewal Reflect on areas in your life that need cleansing and renewal, and invite God to transform your heart and spirit. Live as a Testimony Consider how your life can be a testimony to God's holiness and power, influencing those around you. Embrace God's Sovereignty Acknowledge God's control over all circumstances, trusting His plan even when the path seems uncertain. People 1. The House of Israel This term refers to the collective people of Israel, whom God promises to restore and bless. In the Hebrew text, "house" (בֵּית, "beit") signifies a family or lineage, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and the descendants of Jacob. 2. The Nations These are the surrounding peoples and countries that have scorned and oppressed Israel. The Hebrew word for nations is "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), often used to denote non-Israelite peoples. 3. The Lord GOD This refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, who speaks through the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew name "YHWH" is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations, emphasizing His sovereignty and eternal nature. 4. The Mountains of Israel While not "persons" in the traditional sense, the mountains are personified in the prophecy as recipients of God's promise of restoration and fruitfulness. The Hebrew word "הָרִים" (harim) is used for mountains, symbolizing the land of Israel itself. Places 1. Mountains of Israel The chapter begins with a prophecy directed to the "mountains of Israel" (Ezekiel 36:1). In the Hebrew text, the term used is "הרי ישראל" (haré Yisra'el), referring to the elevated regions of the land of Israel. These mountains symbolize the entire land and its people, who have suffered desolation and are promised restoration. 2. Desolate Places In Ezekiel 36:4, God speaks to the "desolate places" and "ruined cities" of Israel. The Hebrew word for desolate is "שְׁמָמוֹת" (shemamot), indicating areas that have been laid waste and abandoned due to the judgment and exile of the Israelites. 3. Ruined Cities Also in Ezekiel 36:4, the "ruined cities" are mentioned. The Hebrew term "עָרִים חֲרֵבוֹת" (arim charevot) refers to cities that have been destroyed and left in ruins, awaiting the promise of rebuilding and repopulation. 4. Nations Throughout the chapter, there are references to the "nations" surrounding Israel (e.g., Ezekiel 36:3, 36:7). The Hebrew word "גּוֹיִם" (goyim) is used, which typically refers to the non-Israelite peoples or Gentiles. These nations have mocked and plundered Israel, but God promises to vindicate His people. 5. Land of Israel In Ezekiel 36:6, the "land of Israel" is addressed directly. The Hebrew phrase "אַדְמַת יִשְׂרָאֵל" (admat Yisra'el) signifies the entire territory promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which will be restored and made fruitful once again. Events 1. Prophecy to the Mountains of Israel God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the mountains of Israel, addressing the desolation and scorn they have suffered. The mountains are personified, symbolizing the land of Israel itself. The Hebrew word for "mountains" is "הָרִים" (harim). 2. Promise of Restoration The Lord promises that the mountains will once again be fruitful and inhabited. This restoration is a reversal of the desolation caused by Israel's enemies. The Hebrew root "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning "to return" or "restore," is significant here. 3. Judgment on Israel's Enemies God declares judgment on the nations that have plundered and mocked Israel, particularly Edom. This reflects divine justice and the protection of God's covenant people. 4. Blessing of Abundance The prophecy includes promises of agricultural abundance and prosperity for the land. The land will yield fruit and crops, symbolizing God's blessing and favor. 5. Repopulation of the Land God promises that the people of Israel will return and repopulate the land. This repopulation is a sign of God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. 6. Cleansing from Idolatry The Lord promises to cleanse Israel from all impurities and idolatry. This spiritual renewal is essential for the restoration of the covenant relationship. 7. Gift of a New Heart and Spirit God promises to give the people a new heart and a new spirit, removing their heart of stone and replacing it with a heart of flesh. This transformation is central to the new covenant, emphasizing internal change. 8. Indwelling of the Holy Spirit The Lord declares that He will put His Spirit within the people, enabling them to follow His statutes and keep His judgments. This indwelling is a key aspect of the new covenant relationship. 9. Restoration of the Land's Reputation The land, once desolate and mocked, will be restored to its former glory, and the nations will recognize God's hand in this transformation. 10. Multiplication of the People God promises to multiply the people of Israel, likening them to a flock. This multiplication signifies growth and blessing. 11. Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty The chapter concludes with the affirmation that these events will lead to the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and holiness among the nations. Lessons from Ezekiel 36 1. Restoration is Promised God is in the business of restoration. In Ezekiel 36:24, He promises, "For I will take you from among the nations and gather you out of all the countries and bring you back into your own land." This is a reminder that no matter how far we stray, God’s plan is to bring us back to Him, restoring us to our rightful place in His kingdom. 2. A New Heart and Spirit Transformation starts from within. Ezekiel 36:26 says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you." This is a powerful promise that God can change our innermost being, making us more like Him. It’s a call to open our hearts to His transformative power. 3. Cleansing from Impurities God desires purity in His people. In Ezekiel 36:25, He declares, "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols." This cleansing is both spiritual and moral, urging us to turn away from anything that separates us from God. 4. The Indwelling Spirit The Holy Spirit is our guide and helper. Ezekiel 36:27 promises, "And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances." This indwelling presence empowers us to live according to God’s will, providing strength and guidance in our daily walk. 5. Fruitfulness and Abundance God’s blessings are abundant. In Ezekiel 36:30, He assures, "I will increase the fruit of the trees and the produce of the fields, so that you will no longer suffer the disgrace of famine among the nations." This is a reminder that God provides for our needs, both physical and spiritual, when we trust in Him. 6. Repentance and Renewal True repentance leads to renewal. Ezekiel 36:31 states, "Then you will remember your evil ways and your deeds that were not good, and you will loathe yourselves for your iniquities and abominations." Recognizing our shortcomings is the first step toward genuine change and renewal in Christ. 7. God’s Name is Holy God acts for the sake of His holy name. In Ezekiel 36:22, He says, "It is not for your sake that I will act, O house of Israel, but for My holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you went." This underscores the importance of living in a way that honors God’s name, reflecting His holiness in our lives. 8. A Testimony to the Nations Our lives are a testimony to God’s power. Ezekiel 36:23 reveals, "I will show the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations, the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the LORD." Our transformation serves as a witness to others, drawing them to the truth of God’s love and power. 9. God’s Sovereign Plan God’s plans are sovereign and unchanging. Ezekiel 36:36 declares, "Then the nations around you that remain will know that I, the LORD, have rebuilt what was destroyed and replanted what was desolate. I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will do it." This reassures us that God’s purposes will prevail, no matter the circumstances. 10. Hope for the Future There is always hope in God’s promises. Ezekiel 36:11 promises, "I will multiply the people upon you, the whole house of Israel, all of it. The cities will be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt." This is a message of hope and encouragement, reminding us that God’s promises are sure and His future for us is bright. These lessons from Ezekiel 36 remind us of God’s unwavering commitment to His people, His power to transform, and His desire for us to live in holiness and abundance. Let these truths inspire and guide you in your walk with the Lord. Topics 1. Prophecy to the Mountains of Israel God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the mountains of Israel, promising restoration and fruitfulness. The mountains, which had been desolate and mocked by surrounding nations, are assured of God's favor and future prosperity. This reflects the Hebrew root "נבא" (naba), meaning to prophesy or speak by divine inspiration. 2. Judgment on the Nations The Lord declares judgment against the nations that have scorned and plundered Israel, particularly Edom. This judgment underscores God's justice and His commitment to vindicating His people. The Hebrew term "שפט" (shaphat) is used, meaning to judge or govern. 3. Restoration of Israel God promises to restore Israel, both physically and spiritually. The land will be cultivated and inhabited again, and the people will multiply. This restoration is a sign of God's covenant faithfulness. The Hebrew word "שוב" (shuv), meaning to return or restore, is central to this theme. 4. Cleansing and Renewal The Lord promises to cleanse Israel from all impurities and idols, giving them a new heart and spirit. This transformation is a work of divine grace, emphasizing the Hebrew concept of "טהר" (tahar), meaning to purify or cleanse. 5. The New Heart and Spirit God will remove the heart of stone and give a heart of flesh, symbolizing a renewed relationship with Him. This is a profound spiritual renewal, highlighting the Hebrew word "לב" (lev), meaning heart, as the center of will and emotion. 6. God's Holy Name The restoration of Israel is ultimately for the sake of God's holy name, which had been profaned among the nations. This underscores the importance of God's reputation and holiness, reflected in the Hebrew "קדש" (qadash), meaning to sanctify or make holy. 7. Fruitfulness and Prosperity The land of Israel will become like the Garden of Eden, abundant and fruitful. This promise of prosperity is a reversal of previous desolation, emphasizing God's blessing and provision. The Hebrew root "פרה" (parah), meaning to be fruitful, is significant here. 8. Repentance and Humility Israel will remember their past sins and loathe themselves for their iniquities, leading to genuine repentance. This humility is a necessary response to God's grace and mercy. The Hebrew word "נחם" (nacham), meaning to repent or be sorry, is relevant. 9. The Rebuilt Cities The cities of Israel will be rebuilt and inhabited, symbolizing restoration and renewal. This rebuilding is a physical manifestation of God's promises. The Hebrew "בנה" (banah), meaning to build, is key to understanding this restoration. 10. The Nations Will Know The surrounding nations will recognize that God is the Lord when they see the restoration of Israel. This acknowledgment of God's sovereignty is a testimony to His power and faithfulness. The Hebrew "ידע" (yada), meaning to know, is central to this revelation. Themes 1. Restoration of Israel's Land God promises to restore the land of Israel, which has been desolate and mocked by other nations. This theme emphasizes God's faithfulness to His covenant people. The Hebrew word for "restore" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a return to a former state of blessing and prosperity. ^Ezekiel 36:8 :^ "But you, O mountains of Israel, will produce branches and bear fruit for My people Israel, for they will soon come home." 2. Vindication of God's Holiness The restoration is not only for Israel's sake but to vindicate God's holy name, which has been profaned among the nations. This theme highlights God's concern for His reputation and holiness. The Hebrew root for "holy" (קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh) signifies being set apart and sacred. ^Ezekiel 36:23 :^ "I will show the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations—the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the LORD, declares the Lord GOD, when I show My holiness in you before their eyes." 3. Cleansing and Renewal God promises to cleanse the people of Israel from their impurities and idols, symbolizing spiritual renewal and transformation. The Hebrew word for "cleanse" (טָהֵר, taher) indicates purification and moral cleanliness. ^Ezekiel 36:25 :^ "I will also sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and all your idols." 4. A New Heart and Spirit God promises to give Israel a new heart and spirit, replacing their heart of stone with a heart of flesh. This theme underscores the transformative power of God's Spirit in renewing His people. The Hebrew word for "heart" (לֵב, lev) often represents the inner self or will. ^Ezekiel 36:26 :^ "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." 5. The Indwelling of God's Spirit God promises to put His Spirit within His people, enabling them to follow His decrees and laws. This theme points to the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. The Hebrew word for "spirit" (רוּחַ, ruach) can mean breath, wind, or spirit, indicating life and divine presence. ^Ezekiel 36:27 :^ "And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances." 6. Fruitfulness and Prosperity The land will become fruitful and prosperous once again, reflecting God's blessing and provision. This theme highlights the physical and spiritual abundance that comes from God's favor. ^Ezekiel 36:30 :^ "I will increase the fruit of the trees and the produce of the fields, so that you will no longer suffer disgrace among the nations because of famine." 7. Repentance and Recognition of Sin The people of Israel will remember their past sins and loathe themselves for their iniquities, leading to genuine repentance. This theme emphasizes the importance of acknowledging sin and turning back to God. ^Ezekiel 36:31 :^ "Then you will remember your evil ways and your deeds that were not good, and you will loathe yourselves for your iniquities and abominations." Prayer Points Pray for Personal Renewal Ask God to cleanse your heart and renew your spirit, removing any impurities or idols. Pray for Trust in God's Promises Seek God's help in trusting His promises, especially in areas of your life that feel desolate or uncertain. Pray for a Testimony of Holiness Request that your life would reflect God's holiness and serve as a testimony to those around you. Pray for Global Recognition of God's Power Intercede for the nations to recognize God's power and holiness through His work in the world. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could the promise of a renewed land in Ezekiel 36 realistically occur on such a large scale when historical and archaeological evidence seems sparse? 2. In Ezekiel 36:25–27, how does the idea of a “new heart” and spiritual transformation align with scientific understanding of human nature and free will? 3. In light of Ezekiel 36’s promise of restoration, why does the historical record show so much continued conflict in the region, seeming to contradict the prophecy? 4. How do claims in Ezekiel 36 about Israel’s future prosperity reconcile with other biblical passages that predict ongoing hardship for the same people? 5. If the land was to become abundantly fruitful (Ezekiel 36:8–9), why does modern agriculture in that region still struggle with droughts and other environmental challenges? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the theme of restoration in Ezekiel 36 resonate with your personal life? 2. In what ways have you seen God's promise of giving a "new heart" and a "new spirit" manifest in your life or someone else's life? 3. How do the messages of hope and restoration in this chapter relate to the concept of repentance and forgiveness in our current society? 4. What does it mean to profane God's name, as Israel did, and how can we avoid doing so in our lives? 5. In what ways can you uphold the sanctity of God's name in your daily life? 6. How do the promises of God in Ezekiel 36 remind you of His love and commitment to you? 7. Discuss the relevance of God's restoration of Israel in the current state of your community or nation. How can these messages be applied? 8. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your actions don't lead to spiritual desolation, as happened with Israel? 9. Discuss the power of God's transformative renewal in your life or the lives of people around you. 10. How does the promise of God answering the prayers of the people in verses 33-38 inspire you in your personal prayer life? 11. How does Ezekiel 36 reassure you of God's unchanging love, even in the face of disobedience? 12. Reflect on a time you've experienced forgiveness, either from God or someone else. How does this reflect the themes presented in Ezekiel 36? 13. In what ways can you contribute to the spiritual revival of your community, as God promised to Israel? 14. Discuss the significance of God restoring Israel not for their sake, but for His holy name. How does this apply to our understanding of God's grace? 15. How can you apply the prophecy of Ezekiel to modern day living? 16. What steps can you take to ensure that you are not spiritually scattered, as the Israelites were? 17. How can the cleansing from impurities and idolatry, promised by God to Israel, be translated into our lives today? 18. How can we cultivate a heart and spirit that aligns with God's intentions, as promised in Ezekiel 36? 19. Discuss a time in your life when you felt God's transformative power as seen in the physical and spiritual revival promised to Israel. 20. How can the promises God made to the land of Israel in Ezekiel 36 give you hope for the environment and world we live in today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions