Ezekiel 20:17

Yet I looked on them with pity and did not destroy them or bring them to an end in the wilderness.

Study Bible

Yet I looked on them with pity
The Hebrew word for "pity" here is "חָמַל" (chamal), which conveys a deep sense of compassion and mercy. This phrase highlights God's enduring compassion towards the Israelites despite their repeated disobedience. In the historical context, the Israelites were often rebellious, yet God’s nature is to be merciful. This reflects the divine attribute of grace, which is a cornerstone of Christian theology. God's pity is not a sign of weakness but of His steadfast love and commitment to His covenant people.

and did not destroy them
The Hebrew root for "destroy" is "שָׁחַת" (shachat), meaning to ruin or annihilate. Despite the Israelites' transgressions, God chose not to execute the full measure of His wrath. This restraint is significant in understanding the character of God as both just and merciful. Historically, the wilderness period was a time of testing and judgment, yet God’s decision not to destroy them underscores His patience and long-suffering nature.

or bring them to an end
The phrase "bring them to an end" can be understood from the Hebrew "כָּלָה" (kalah), which means to complete or finish. This suggests that God had the power to completely terminate the existence of the Israelites but chose not to. This decision is a testament to His faithfulness and the unbreakable nature of His promises. In a broader scriptural context, it reflects the theme of redemption and the hope that God offers to His people, even when they falter.

in the wilderness
The wilderness, or "מִדְבָּר" (midbar) in Hebrew, is a significant setting in the biblical narrative. It represents a place of trial, purification, and transformation. For the Israelites, the wilderness was both a physical and spiritual journey. It was a place where they encountered God, received His law, and learned dependence on Him. The wilderness experience is symbolic of the Christian journey of faith, where believers are often tested but also grow closer to God through reliance on His provision and guidance.

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. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are often rebellious and disobedient, leading to their exile and suffering.

3. Wilderness
Represents the period of Israel's wandering after the Exodus from Egypt, a time of testing and divine provision.

4. God's Mercy
Despite Israel's rebellion, God shows compassion and refrains from complete destruction.

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

Teaching Points

God's Unfailing Mercy
Despite repeated rebellion, God’s mercy prevails. This teaches us about the depth of God's compassion and patience.

The Consequences of Disobedience
While God is merciful, the Israelites still faced consequences for their actions. This serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God.

Hope in Times of Judgment
Even in judgment, God provides hope and a future. Believers can trust in God's ultimate plan and mercy.

Reflecting God's Mercy
As recipients of God's mercy, we are called to extend mercy and compassion to others, reflecting God's character in our lives.

Learning from History
The history of Israel serves as a lesson for us to remain faithful and obedient, avoiding the pitfalls of past generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's mercy in Ezekiel 20:17 encourage you in your personal walk with Him, especially when you face your own failures?

2. In what ways can the account of the Israelites in the wilderness serve as a warning and a lesson for modern believers?

3. How can you apply the concept of God's unfailing mercy in your relationships with others?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure that you are obedient to God, avoiding the mistakes of the Israelites?

5. How do other scriptures, such as those in the New Testament, reinforce the message of God's mercy found in Ezekiel 20:17?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32-34
These chapters recount the Israelites' rebellion with the golden calf and God's merciful response, paralleling His mercy in Ezekiel 20:17.

Psalm 78
This psalm reflects on Israel's history of rebellion and God's enduring mercy, similar to the themes in Ezekiel.

Lamentations 3:22-23
Highlights God's steadfast love and mercy, which are new every morning, resonating with His compassion in Ezekiel 20:17.

Romans 11:1-5
Paul discusses God's continued mercy towards Israel, affirming that God has not rejected His people despite their disobedience.