◄ Ezekiel 7 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Hour of Doom 1And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“O son of man, this is what the Lord GOD says to the land of Israel: ‘The end! The end has come upon the four corners of the land. 3The end is now upon you, and I will unleash My anger against you. I will judge you according to your ways and repay you for all your abominations. 4I will not look on you with pity, nor will I spare you, but I will punish you for your ways and for the abominations among you. Then you will know that I am the LORD.’ 5This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Disaster! An unprecedented disastera — behold, it is coming! 6The end has come! The end has come! It has roused itself against you. Behold, it has come! 7Doom has come to you, O inhabitants of the land. The time has come; the day is near; there is panic on the mountains instead of shouts of joy. 8Very soon I will pour out My wrath upon you and vent My anger against you; I will judge you according to your ways and repay you for all your abominations. 9I will not look on you with pity, nor will I spare you, but I will punish you for your ways and for the abominations among you. Then you will know that it is I, the LORD, who strikes the blow. 10Behold, the day is here! It has come! Doom has gone out, the rod has budded, arrogance has bloomed. 11Their violence has grown into a rod to punish their wickedness.b None of them will remain: none of their multitude, none of their wealth, and nothing of value. 12The time has come; the day has arrived. Let the buyer not rejoice and the seller not mourn, for wrath is upon the whole multitude. 13The seller will surely not recover what he sold while both remain alive. For the vision concerning the whole multitude will not be revoked, and because of their iniquity, not one of them will preserve his life. The Desolation of Israel 14They have blown the trumpet and made everything ready, but no one goes to war, for My wrath is upon the whole multitude. 15The 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. 16The survivors will escape and live in the mountains, moaning like doves of the valley, each for his own iniquity. 17Every hand will go limp, and every knee will turn to water. 18They will put on sackcloth, and terror will overwhelm them. Shame will cover all their faces, and all their heads will be shaved. 19They will throw their silver into the streets, and their gold will seem unclean. Their silver and gold cannot save them in the day of the wrath of the LORD. They cannot satisfy their appetites or fill their stomachs with wealth, for it became the stumbling block that brought their iniquity. 20His beautiful ornaments they transformed into pride and used them to fashion their vile images and detestable idols. Therefore I will make these into something unclean for them. 21And I will hand these things over as plunder to foreigners and loot to the wicked of the earth, who will defile them. 22I will turn My face away from them, and they will defile My treasured place. Violent men will enter it, and they will defile it. 23Forge the chain, for the land is full of crimes of bloodshed, and the city is full of violence. 24So I will bring the most wicked of nations to take possession of their houses. I will end the pride of the mighty, and their holy places will be profaned. 25Anguish is coming! They will seek peace, but find none. 26Disaster upon disaster will come, and rumor after rumor. Then they will seek a vision from a prophet, but instruction from the priests will perish, as will counsel from the elders. 27The king will mourn, the prince will be clothed with despair, and the hands of the people of the land will tremble. I will deal with them according to their conduct, and I will judge them by their own standards. Then they will know that I am the LORD.’” Footnotes: 5 a Or A unique disaster, as in most Hebrew manuscripts; some Hebrew manuscripts and Syriac Disaster after disaster 11 b Literally The violence has grown into a rod of wickedness 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 7 Summary The Hour of Doom Verses 1–4 – The End Declared God tells Ezekiel to announce that “The end is now upon the four corners of the land” (v. 2). Judgment is personal: “My eye will not spare you, nor will I show pity” (v. 4). Verses 5–9 – Unprecedented Disaster The LORD describes a unique calamity: “An unprecedented disaster—behold, it is coming!” (v. 5). Wrath will be poured out; God will repay Israel “according to your ways” (v. 8). Verses 10–13 – Inevitable Doom on Prosperity “Behold, the day! Behold, it is coming!” (v. 10). The people’s wealth and land deals will not save them; sellers and buyers alike will lose everything because “wrath is upon all their multitude” (v. 12). Verses 14–18 – No Deliverance, Only Terror Even if the trumpet is blown, no one fights; instead, “sword is outside, plague and famine are within” (v. 15). Those who survive “will wrap themselves in sackcloth, and horror will overwhelm them” (v. 18). Verses 19–22 – Worthless Riches, Profaned Temple “They will throw their silver into the streets” (v. 19). Gold cannot rescue; the sanctuary that was their pride will be defiled and handed over to foreigners (vv. 21–22). Verses 23–27 – Broken Society and Silenced Guidance “Make a chain, for the land is full of bloodshed” (v. 23). Kings mourn, priests are stunned, prophets receive no vision. “Calamity upon calamity” leads the people to know that God is the LORD (v. 27). Ezekiel 7 is a powerful, prophetic chapter from the Berean Standard Bible, outlining God's judgment against the nation of Israel. The text presents a grim picture of the inescapable consequences of sin and unfaithfulness to God. It underscores the severity of divine punishment for idolatry and injustice, ultimately leading to desolation and doom. Historical Setting • Date: around 592 BC, four to five years before Jerusalem’s fall in 586 BC. • Location: Ezekiel is in exile by the Kebar Canal in Babylon, speaking to fellow deportees while Jerusalem still stands (Ezekiel 1:1–3). • Backdrop: Judah’s kings ignored repeated warnings (2 Chron 36:15–16). Idolatry polluted the temple (Ezekiel 8), and violence filled the streets. Literary Flow and Style • The oracle is framed by the word “end” (Hebrew qēts) repeated eight times (vv. 2–6): poetic hammer blows that drive home urgency. • Three snapshots: approaching doom (vv. 1–9), the loss of goods (vv. 10–13), the collapse of society (vv. 14–27). • The language is vivid, almost street-prophetic: “doom,” “burst of fury,” “chain,” “disaster upon disaster.” Key Themes 1. Immediacy of Judgment – “The time has come; the day has arrived” (v. 12). No reprieve remains. 2. Retribution in Kind – God repays “according to your ways” (vv. 3, 8). Compare with Galatians 6:7, “Whatever a man sows, he will reap.” 3. Futility of Wealth – Silver and gold become trash (v. 19). Jesus echoes the same principle in Matthew 6:19. 4. Profaned Worship – God gives His house “into the hands of foreigners” (v. 21) because it had already been spiritually abandoned (Jeremiah 7:9–11). 5. Silence of Guidance – Prophets, priests, elders—every level of leadership—go mute (v. 26). Amos 8:11–12 foretells a famine of hearing God’s words. Connections to Other Scriptures • Deuteronomy 28 warns of sword, famine, and exile if the covenant is broken. Ezekiel 7 is that warning realized. • Isaiah 2:20 foretells men casting idols of silver and gold away; Ezekiel 7:19 shows it happening. • Jeremiah 6:4–15 parallels the “end” motif and charges of violence and fraud. • Revelation 18 echoes the downfall of a proud city where merchants weep over lost riches, showing the pattern extends to the final judgment. Archaeological Insights • The Babylonian Chronicles record Nebuchadnezzar’s siege and capture of Jerusalem in 586 BC, matching Ezekiel’s timeline. • Burn layers on Jerusalem’s eastern hill (City of David excavations) reveal ash and Babylonian arrowheads from the destruction period. • Cuneiform tablets confirm mass deportations and list rations for “Ya-u-kin, king of Judah” (Jehoiachin), validating Ezekiel 1:2 and 2 Kings 24:12. What This Passage Reveals about God • He is patient but not permissive; after centuries of warning, He acts. • His judgments are measured—“according to your ways”—never random. • He values His dwelling place; when it is profaned, He will not ignore it. • Even wrath has a goal: “Then they will know that I am the LORD” (v. 27). Recognition of God’s rule is ultimate mercy. Lessons for Believers Today • Delay is not denial—mercy has a limit. Ignoring repeated calls to repent invites crisis. • Wealth, security systems, or institutions cannot substitute for obedience. • Public worship loses power when private lives are corrupt; God desires consistency. • When leaders lose moral footing, society unravels. Pray for leaders while guarding personal faithfulness. • Hard passages magnify grace. Christ bore wrath so that those who trust Him “will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Practical Takeaways 1. Hold possessions loosely; they can vanish overnight. 2. Keep short accounts with God; confess early and often (1 John 1:9). 3. Measure success by faithfulness, not by temporary prosperity. 4. Remember that God’s warnings today are gifts meant to steer us back before the end comes. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 2:5-6 But because of your hard and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. God 'will repay each one according to his deeds.' Matthew 6:19-21 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. Teaching Points The Certainty of Judgment Ezekiel 7:2-3 emphasizes the inevitability of God's judgment: The end is now upon you, and I will unleash My anger against you. This underscores the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine justice. The Nature of God's Wrath Verses 4 and 9 highlight that God's wrath is a response to the people's actions: I will repay you according to your ways. God's judgment is not arbitrary but a direct consequence of Israel's rebellion. The Universality of Judgment The phrase the four corners of the land (Ezekiel 7:2) indicates that no one is exempt from God's judgment. It is comprehensive and affects all who have turned away from Him. The Futility of Earthly Reliance In verses 19-20, the people cast their silver and gold into the streets, realizing that their wealth cannot save them. This illustrates the futility of relying on material possessions in the face of divine judgment. The Call to Repentance Although the chapter is filled with warnings, it implicitly calls the people to recognize their sin and turn back to God. The severity of the message is meant to awaken them to their need for repentance. Practical Applications Reflect on Personal Accountability Consider how your actions align with God's standards and seek His forgiveness for areas of disobedience. Evaluate Your Priorities Assess whether you are placing undue trust in material wealth or earthly security instead of relying on God. Embrace God's Mercy While God's judgment is real, His mercy is also available. Turn to Him with a repentant heart, knowing that He desires to restore and forgive. Stay Spiritually Vigilant Just as the Israelites were warned of impending judgment, remain vigilant in your spiritual walk, aware of the times and seasons. People 1. The House of Israel This term refers to the collective people of Israel. In Ezekiel 7, the prophecy is directed towards them, warning of impending judgment due to their iniquities. The Hebrew term "בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Beit Yisrael) is used to denote the entire nation. 2. The Land of Israel While not a person, the land itself is addressed as if it were a recipient of the prophecy. The land is personified to emphasize the severity of the coming judgment. 3. The Prince of Israel In verse 27, the "prince" is mentioned, likely referring to the ruling leader or leaders of Israel at the time. The Hebrew word "נָשִׂיא" (nasi) is used, which can mean prince, leader, or chief. 4. The People of the Land This phrase refers to the general populace of Israel. They are included in the prophecy as those who will experience the consequences of the nation's sins. Places 1. The Land of Israel The entire chapter is a prophecy against the land of Israel, emphasizing the coming judgment due to the people's sins. The Hebrew term used here is "אֶרֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Eretz Yisrael), which refers to the geographical and spiritual homeland of the Israelites. The prophecy is directed towards the inhabitants of this land, warning them of the impending doom. 2. Mountains of Israel In verse 7:7, the "mountains of Israel" are mentioned as part of the prophecy. The mountains often symbolize the high places where idolatry was practiced, and they serve as a representation of the entire land. The Hebrew word "הָרֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" (harei Yisrael) is used, indicating the physical and spiritual high places within the land. Events 1. The End Has Come The chapter begins with a declaration from the Lord that the end has come upon the four corners of the land. The Hebrew word used here for "end" is "קֵץ" (qets), indicating a finality or conclusion. ^Ezekiel 7:2 : "Son of man, this is what the Lord GOD says to the land of Israel: The end! The end has come upon the four corners of the land."^ 2. Judgment Without Pity God announces that He will judge the people without pity or sparing them, emphasizing the certainty and severity of the coming judgment. ^Ezekiel 7:4 : "I will not look on you with pity or spare you, for I will bring your ways upon you, and your abominations will be among you. Then you will know that I am the LORD."^ 3. The Day of Doom The day of doom is described as near, a time of panic rather than rejoicing. The Hebrew word "קָרוֹב" (qarov) is used for "near," indicating imminence. ^Ezekiel 7:7 : "Doom has come to you, O inhabitant of the land. The time has come; the day is near. There is panic, not joy, on the mountains."^ 4. The Wrath of God God's wrath is depicted as being poured out, and His anger is described as being spent. The Hebrew word "חֵמָה" (chemah) is used for "wrath," conveying intense fury. ^Ezekiel 7:8 : "I am about to pour out My wrath on you and spend My anger against you. I will judge you according to your ways and repay you for all your abominations."^ 5. The Collapse of Wealth The chapter describes the futility of wealth in the face of divine judgment, as silver and gold will not be able to deliver them. ^Ezekiel 7:19 : "They will throw their silver into the streets, and their gold will be treated as a thing unclean. Their silver and gold cannot save them in the day of the wrath of the LORD."^ 6. Desolation of the Land The land is described as being desolate, and the pride of the people is broken. The Hebrew word "שַׁמָּה" (shammah) is used for "desolation," indicating utter ruin. ^Ezekiel 7:24 : "I will bring the most wicked of nations to take possession of their houses. I will end the pride of the mighty, and their holy places will be profaned."^ 7. The Silence of the Prophets Prophets, priests, and elders are depicted as being in a state of silence and despair, unable to provide guidance or counsel. ^Ezekiel 7:26 : "Disaster upon disaster will come, and rumor upon rumor. They will seek a vision from the prophet, but instruction will perish from the priest and counsel from the elders."^ 8. The Mourning of the People The chapter concludes with the people mourning and the hands of the people trembling, signifying the complete breakdown of societal order. ^Ezekiel 7:27 : "The king will mourn, the prince will be clothed with despair, and the hands of the people of the land will tremble. I will deal with them according to their conduct, and by their own standards I will judge them. Then they will know that I am the LORD."^ Lessons from Ezekiel 7 1. The Certainty of God's Judgment Ezekiel 7 reminds us that God's judgment is certain and unavoidable. The chapter opens with a clear declaration: "The end has come upon the four corners of the land" (Ezekiel 7:2). This serves as a powerful reminder that God's justice is not arbitrary but is a response to persistent disobedience. It's a call to live righteously and align our lives with His will, knowing that His promises are sure. 2. The Consequences of Sin Sin has real and tangible consequences, as vividly illustrated in Ezekiel 7. The chapter describes a time of distress and calamity due to the people's rebellion against God. "Disaster after disaster will come, and rumor after rumor" (Ezekiel 7:26). This serves as a wake-up call to examine our own lives and turn away from sin, understanding that it leads to destruction. 3. The Importance of Repentance Ezekiel 7 underscores the need for genuine repentance. The people of Israel faced dire consequences because they failed to turn back to God. This lesson encourages us to regularly examine our hearts and seek forgiveness, knowing that God is always ready to restore those who come to Him with a contrite spirit. 4. The Futility of Material Wealth In times of judgment, material wealth offers no refuge. Ezekiel 7:19 states, "They will throw their silver into the streets, and their gold will be like refuse." This highlights the futility of relying on earthly possessions for security. Instead, we are reminded to store up treasures in heaven, where true value lies. 5. The Role of Prophets Ezekiel's role as a prophet is crucial in delivering God's message. His warnings were meant to guide the people back to righteousness. This teaches us the importance of listening to those who speak God's truth today, whether through Scripture, sermons, or wise counsel, and applying it to our lives. 6. The Sovereignty of God Ezekiel 7 emphasizes God's sovereignty over all nations and events. "I will do to them according to their conduct, and by their own standards I will judge them" (Ezekiel 7:27). This reassures us that God is in control, orchestrating events according to His divine plan, and we can trust Him even in uncertain times. 7. The Call to Watchfulness The chapter serves as a call to be vigilant and watchful. The impending judgment was a surprise to many, but it was not without warning. We are encouraged to stay spiritually alert, always ready for Christ's return, and to live each day with purpose and intentionality. 8. The Power of God's Word Ezekiel 7 demonstrates the power and authority of God's Word. The prophecies delivered were not mere predictions but declarations of what would surely come to pass. This reminds us of the reliability and truth of Scripture, urging us to study and apply it diligently in our lives. 9. The Necessity of Holiness God's call for holiness is evident in Ezekiel 7. The people's unfaithfulness led to their downfall, highlighting the necessity of living a life set apart for God. We are called to be holy as He is holy, reflecting His character in our actions and decisions. 10. The Hope of Restoration While Ezekiel 7 is a chapter of judgment, it also points to the hope of restoration. God's ultimate desire is for His people to return to Him. This offers us hope that no matter how far we may stray, God's grace is sufficient to restore and renew us when we turn back to Him with sincere hearts. Topics 1. The End Has Come Ezekiel 7 begins with a declaration of the imminent end for the land of Israel. The phrase "The end has come" (Ezekiel 7:2) is a central theme, emphasizing the finality and certainty of God's judgment. The Hebrew word for "end" is "קֵץ" (qets), indicating a conclusion or termination. 2. The Day of Doom The chapter describes a "day of doom" (Ezekiel 7:7), a time of disaster and reckoning. This day is characterized by chaos and destruction, underscoring the severity of God's judgment. The Hebrew word "יוֹם" (yom) for "day" signifies a specific time period marked by divine intervention. 3. The Wrath of God God's wrath is a prominent theme, as He declares, "I will pour out My wrath upon you" (Ezekiel 7:8). This wrath is a response to the people's sins and abominations. The Hebrew word "חֵמָה" (chemah) for "wrath" conveys intense anger and indignation. 4. The Collapse of Society The societal collapse is depicted through the imagery of economic ruin and social disintegration. "The time has come; the day has arrived" (Ezekiel 7:12) highlights the urgency and inevitability of this collapse. The Hebrew word "עֵת" (et) for "time" suggests a divinely appointed moment. 5. The Futility of Wealth The chapter emphasizes the futility of relying on wealth, as "Their silver and gold will not be able to deliver them" (Ezekiel 7:19). This underscores the spiritual bankruptcy of the people. The Hebrew word "כֶּסֶף" (kesef) for "silver" and "זָהָב" (zahav) for "gold" symbolize material wealth. 6. The Desecration of the Temple The desecration of the temple is a significant aspect of God's judgment, as "They have made My beautiful place a detestable thing" (Ezekiel 7:20). This reflects the spiritual corruption of the people. The Hebrew word "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah) for "detestable thing" indicates something abominable or repulsive. 7. The Terror of Judgment The terror and fear accompanying God's judgment are vividly portrayed, with phrases like "Terror is coming" (Ezekiel 7:25). This highlights the overwhelming nature of divine retribution. The Hebrew word "פַּחַד" (pachad) for "terror" conveys dread and fear. 8. The Silence of the Prophets The chapter concludes with the silence of the prophets, as "The law will perish from the priest and counsel from the elders" (Ezekiel 7:26). This signifies the withdrawal of divine guidance. The Hebrew word "תּוֹרָה" (torah) for "law" refers to instruction or teaching. Themes 1. Imminent Judgment Ezekiel 7 emphasizes the certainty and imminence of God's judgment on Israel. The chapter opens with a declaration that "the end has come upon the four corners of the land" (Ezekiel 7:2). The Hebrew word for "end" (קֵץ, qēṣ) signifies a finality and completion, underscoring the urgency and inevitability of the impending judgment. 2. Divine Wrath The chapter vividly describes God's wrath against the sins of the people. In verse 3, it states, "Now the end is upon you, and I will unleash My anger against you" (Ezekiel 7:3). The Hebrew term for "anger" (אַף, 'aph) conveys a sense of intense fury, highlighting the seriousness of God's response to sin. 3. Consequences of Sin Ezekiel 7 outlines the consequences that the people will face due to their iniquities. Verse 4 declares, "I will repay you according to your ways and bring upon you all your abominations" (Ezekiel 7:4). The Hebrew word for "ways" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek) refers to the conduct or behavior of the people, indicating that their actions have led to their downfall. 4. Desolation and Despair The chapter paints a picture of desolation and despair as a result of the judgment. In verse 7, it says, "Doom has come to you, O inhabitant of the land" (Ezekiel 7:7). The Hebrew word for "doom" (צְפִירָה, ṣep̄îrâ) suggests a sense of alarm and distress, reflecting the hopelessness that will engulf the people. 5. Inevitability of God's Decree The inevitability of God's decree is a recurring theme, as seen in verse 10: "Behold, the day! Behold, it is coming! Doom has gone out; the rod has budded; arrogance has blossomed" (Ezekiel 7:10). The imagery of the "rod" and "blossoming" indicates that the time for judgment has fully matured, and there is no turning back. 6. Call to Repentance Implicit in the warnings is a call to repentance, though the chapter primarily focuses on the certainty of judgment. The repeated declarations of impending doom serve as a sobering reminder of the need for the people to turn back to God. 7. God's Sovereignty Throughout Ezekiel 7, the sovereignty of God is evident as He declares and executes judgment. Verse 9 states, "Then you will know that it is I, the LORD, who strikes" (Ezekiel 7:9). The use of the divine name "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH) emphasizes His ultimate authority and power over the events that unfold. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart of Repentance Ask God to reveal any areas of sin in your life and to grant you a heart that seeks His forgiveness and transformation. Pray for Spiritual Discernment Request wisdom to discern the times and to live in a way that honors God amidst a world that often turns away from Him. Pray for Trust in God's Provision Seek God's help in placing your trust in Him rather than in material possessions or earthly securities. Pray for Boldness in Sharing the Gospel Ask for courage to share the message of God's love and judgment with others, that they too may come to repentance and faith. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 7:2, the text mentions “the four corners of the land”—how can this be reconciled with modern geography and a spherical Earth? 2. Ezekiel 7:3 speaks of God punishing “according to your ways”—why does this seem to punish everyone collectively, conflicting with other scriptures emphasizing individual accountability? 3. Ezekiel 7:5–6 predicts a doom that is “unique” and “coming”—were there any historical events matching this prophecy, and if not, does that undermine its credibility? 4. If Ezekiel 7 portrays imminent destruction, how do we align that with later passages in the Bible that describe restoration and continued divine protection? 5. Ezekiel 7:19 mentions people throwing their silver and gold in the streets—has any archaeological evidence been found to support this kind of widespread act of desperation? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the prophecy of doom in Ezekiel 7 apply to today's world? 2. What lessons can be learned about the nature of God's judgment from this chapter? 3. How does Ezekiel 7 deepen your understanding of the consequences of sin? 4. Why does God connect idolatry with severe punishment? 5. How can the fear of divine judgment inspire repentance and obedience? 6. How does this chapter portray the inability of worldly wealth to save from God's wrath? 7. What can we learn about the seriousness of defiling sacred spaces like the Temple? 8. How would you respond if you were among the people receiving Ezekiel's prophecy? 9. What does it mean when it says that "the buyer will not regain what he lost, and the seller will not return to what was sold"? How can we apply this to modern life? 10. Can you relate to the feeling of seeking peace but finding none? How can faith change that? 11. How does Ezekiel's message act as a warning to us in modern times? 12. How can the church today guard against the sins of idolatry and injustice? 13. How does Ezekiel 7 challenge our view of prosperity and success? 14. What would be the implications if God turned His face away from us today, as described in this chapter? 15. How should the message of Ezekiel 7 influence our decisions and actions in our daily lives? 16. How do you see the theme of inescapability playing out in this chapter? 17. How does the description of the despair among the people of Israel make you reflect upon the consequences of sin in your own life? 18. How does the desolation depicted in the chapter inspire you to lead a life more pleasing to God? 19. How can you apply the lessons from Ezekiel 7 in teaching others about the severity of God's judgment? 20. What steps can you take to ensure that you do not fall into the same trap as the Israelites did, according to this chapter? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions