Like 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." Like the numerous flocks for sacrifices at Jerusalem during her appointed feasts,This phrase draws a parallel between the restoration of Israel and the abundant flocks brought to Jerusalem for sacrifices during the feasts. The appointed feasts refer to the three major pilgrimage festivals: Passover, Shavuot (Pentecost), and Sukkot (Tabernacles), when Israelites were required to bring offerings to the temple. These events were marked by large gatherings and numerous sacrifices, symbolizing worship, community, and divine blessing. The imagery of numerous flocks suggests a future time of prosperity and spiritual renewal for Israel, reminiscent of the vibrant religious life centered around the temple. 2Ch 35:7-9 From his own flocks and herds Josiah contributed… so the ruined cities will be filled with flocks of people. The comparison of people to flocks indicates a return to populous and thriving communities in the cities that were once desolate. This restoration is a reversal of the judgment and exile experienced by Israel due to their disobedience. The imagery of flocks also suggests care and guidance, as a shepherd tends to his sheep, implying that God will oversee the return and flourishing of His people. This promise of restoration is consistent with other prophetic visions, such as those found in Isaiah 44:26 and Jeremiah 33:12-13, where desolate places are revived. Jer 33:10-13 This is what the LORD says: In this place you say… Then they will know that I am the LORD.” This concluding phrase emphasizes the ultimate purpose of God's actions: the recognition of His sovereignty and faithfulness. Throughout the book of Ezekiel, this refrain underscores the divine intention behind both judgment and restoration. The acknowledgment of God as LORD signifies a restored relationship between God and His people, characterized by obedience and worship. This recognition is not only for Israel but serves as a testimony to the nations, fulfilling the covenant promise that through Israel, all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). The phrase also points to the eschatological hope of a future where God's presence is fully realized among His people, as seen in Revelation 21:3. Ezk 39:22 From that day forward the house of Israel will know… Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration to the Israelites. 2. Jerusalem The central city of worship for the Israelites, known for its temple and religious feasts. 3. Ruined Cities Refers to the cities of Israel that were devastated due to the people's disobedience and subsequent exile. 4. Flock for Sacrifices Symbolizes the people of Israel, likened to sacrificial animals, emphasizing their role in worship and dedication to God. 5. Appointed Feasts These are the significant religious festivals in Jerusalem, such as Passover, which drew large gatherings of people. Teaching Points Restoration and HopeGod's promise to fill the ruined cities with people signifies hope and restoration. Believers can trust in God's ability to restore what is broken in their lives. Worship and Community The imagery of flocks during feasts highlights the importance of communal worship. Christians are encouraged to gather regularly for worship and fellowship. Divine Sovereignty The phrase "Then they will know that I am the LORD" underscores God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan for His people. Believers are reminded to recognize and submit to God's authority. Faithfulness in Exile Just as the Israelites were called to remain faithful during exile, Christians are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith during challenging times. Symbolism of Sacrifice The reference to sacrificial flocks points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. Believers are called to live sacrificially, dedicating their lives to God. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the imagery of "flocks for sacrifices" enhance our understanding of worship and dedication to God?2. In what ways can the promise of restoration in Ezekiel 36:38 encourage us in our personal lives today? 3. How does the gathering of flocks during Jerusalem's feasts relate to the New Testament concept of the church as a community? 4. What does the phrase "Then they will know that I am the LORD" teach us about God's character and His relationship with His people? 5. How can we apply the lessons of faithfulness and hope from Ezekiel 36:38 to our current circumstances, especially in times of difficulty or "exile"? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 100This psalm speaks of entering God's presence with thanksgiving and joy, similar to the imagery of flocks gathering for worship. Isaiah 40:11 Describes God as a shepherd who gathers and cares for His flock, paralleling the restoration and care promised in Ezekiel. John 10:14-16 Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, connecting the idea of gathering and caring for His people. Revelation 7:9 Depicts a great multitude from every nation worshiping God, echoing the imagery of a filled city with flocks of people. Jeremiah 31:10 Speaks of God gathering His people like a shepherd, reinforcing the theme of restoration and divine care.
People EzekielPlaces Edom, Jerusalem, Mount Seir, Tigris-Euphrates RegionTopics Appointed, Cities, During, Feasts, Filled, Fixed, Flock, Flocks, Full, Holy, Jerusalem, Offerings, Ones, Ruined, Sacrifice, Sacrifices, Seasons, Sheep, Solemn, Towns, Unpeopled, WasteDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 36:37-38Library January 2. "I Will Cause You to Walk in My Statutes" (Eze. xxxvi. 27). "I will cause you to walk in My statutes" (Eze. xxxvi. 27). The highest spiritual condition is one where life is spontaneous and flows without effort, like the deep floods of Ezekiel's river, where the struggles of the swimmer ceased, and he was borne by the current's resistless force. So God leads us into spiritual conditions and habits which become the spontaneous impulses of our being, and we live and move in the fulness of the divine life. But these spiritual habits are not the outcome of some … Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth May 30. "I Will Put My Spirit Within You" (Ez. xxxvi. 27). August 25. "And I Will Put My Spirit Within You, and Cause You to Walk in My Statutes, and Ye Shall Keep My Judgments and do Them" (Ezek. xxxvi. 27). The Holy Nation A New Heart. Prayer --The Forerunner of Mercy The Covenant Promise of the Spirit The New Heart Free Grace What Self Deserves The Stony Heart Removed Let Your Hearts be Much Set on Revivals of Religion. ... God Has Everything to do with Prayer How those are to be Admonished with whom Everything Succeeds According to their Wish, and those with whom Nothing Does. Jesus Angry with Hard Hearts The Everlasting Covenant of the Spirit Good Works. Touching Jacob, However, that which He did at his Mother's Bidding... Pastor in Parish (I. ). Be Ye Therefore Perfect, Even as Your Father which is in Heaven is Perfect. Matthew 5:48. The Person Sanctified. Introductory Note. Evidences Internal and Experimental. Links Ezekiel 36:38 NIVEzekiel 36:38 NLT Ezekiel 36:38 ESV Ezekiel 36:38 NASB Ezekiel 36:38 KJV Ezekiel 36:38 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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