Ezekiel 14:22

Yet, behold, some survivors will be left in it--sons and daughters who will be brought out. They will come out to you, and when you see their conduct and actions, you will be comforted regarding the disaster I have brought upon Jerusalem--all that I have brought upon it.

Study Bible

Yet, behold, some survivors will be left in it—
This phrase indicates a remnant theology, a recurring theme in the Bible where God preserves a faithful group despite widespread judgment. The concept of a remnant is seen throughout Scripture, such as in the stories of Noah's family during the flood and the Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile. This remnant serves as a sign of hope and continuity of God's covenant promises.

sons and daughters who will be brought out.
The mention of "sons and daughters" emphasizes the continuation of the community and the preservation of future generations. In the context of ancient Israel, lineage and family were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights. This phrase also suggests divine intervention, as God ensures the survival and deliverance of these individuals from the impending judgment.

They will come out to you,
This indicates a movement towards the prophet Ezekiel, who was in exile in Babylon. The survivors coming to Ezekiel symbolize the gathering of the faithful and the restoration of communication between God and His people. It also highlights Ezekiel's role as a mediator and a source of divine insight for the exiles.

and when you see their conduct and actions,
The conduct and actions of the survivors serve as a testimony to their faithfulness and repentance. This reflects the biblical principle that true faith is demonstrated through righteous living, as seen in James 2:18, which emphasizes that faith without works is dead. The survivors' behavior would be a visible sign of their transformation and alignment with God's will.

you will be comforted regarding the disaster I have brought upon Jerusalem—
The comfort comes from witnessing the faithfulness and survival of the remnant, which reassures Ezekiel and the exiles of God's ongoing plan and mercy. Despite the severe judgment on Jerusalem, the presence of a remnant signifies hope and the possibility of restoration. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of redemption following judgment.

all that I have brought upon it.
This phrase underscores God's sovereignty and justice in executing judgment upon Jerusalem. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience, as well as the fulfillment of prophetic warnings given by Ezekiel and other prophets. The acknowledgment of God's actions reinforces the importance of repentance and adherence to His covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. Jerusalem
The city under judgment due to the people's idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. Survivors
The remnant of people who will be spared from the destruction of Jerusalem.

4. Sons and Daughters
The specific individuals among the survivors who will be brought out of Jerusalem.

5. The Disaster
The judgment and destruction that God has brought upon Jerusalem as a consequence of their sins.

Teaching Points

God's Mercy in Judgment
Despite the severe judgment, God shows mercy by preserving a remnant. This teaches us about His character—just yet merciful.

The Role of the Remnant
The remnant serves as a testimony to God's faithfulness and a source of consolation to others. We are called to be a light and witness in our communities.

Consolation through Witness
Observing the conduct of the remnant brings comfort. Our lives should reflect God's grace, offering hope and encouragement to others.

The Importance of Conduct
The survivors' actions are significant. Our behavior should align with our faith, demonstrating the transformative power of God's grace.

Hope in Restoration
The promise of a remnant points to future restoration. We can trust in God's plan for redemption and renewal, even in times of judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a remnant in Ezekiel 14:22 provide hope in the midst of judgment?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, serve as a remnant in our communities?

3. How does the preservation of a remnant reflect God's character, and what does this teach us about His nature?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our conduct and actions align with our faith, as seen in the remnant's example?

5. How can the theme of a remnant in Ezekiel 14:22 be connected to the New Testament teachings on the church and believers today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 24
This chapter also speaks of a remnant that will be preserved, symbolized by good figs, indicating God's mercy and future restoration.

Isaiah 10:20-22
Discusses the remnant of Israel that will return to God, emphasizing the theme of a faithful few who will survive judgment.

Romans 11:5
Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace, connecting the idea of a faithful remnant in the Old Testament to the New Testament church.

Zechariah 13:8-9
Describes a refining process where a third will be left, highlighting the purification and preservation of a remnant.

Revelation 3:4
Refers to a few in Sardis who have not soiled their garments, illustrating the concept of a faithful remnant within the church.