Ezekiel 14:8

I will set My face against that man and make him a sign and a proverb; I will cut him off from among My people. Then you will know that I am the LORD.

Study Bible

I will set My face against that man
This phrase indicates God's active opposition and judgment. In biblical terms, God setting His face against someone signifies His disfavor and intent to bring about consequences for disobedience. This is consistent with Leviticus 20:3-5, where God sets His face against those who turn to other gods. It reflects the seriousness of idolatry and rebellion against God, emphasizing His holiness and justice.

and make him a sign and a proverb;
In ancient cultures, a "sign" and "proverb" often referred to a person or event that became a lesson or warning to others. This phrase suggests that the individual will serve as a cautionary tale, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God. This is similar to the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah, which became proverbial for divine judgment (Genesis 19). It underscores the didactic purpose of God's judgments, teaching His people through the experiences of others.

I will cut him off from among My people.
To be "cut off" in the Old Testament often meant death or exile, signifying a complete removal from the community of God's people. This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where disobedience could lead to severe consequences, as seen in Deuteronomy 28. It highlights the seriousness of maintaining purity and faithfulness within the community, as well as the consequences of failing to do so.

Then you will know that I am the LORD.
This phrase is a recurring theme in Ezekiel, emphasizing the recognition of God's sovereignty and authority. It serves as a reminder that God's actions, whether in judgment or blessing, are ultimately to reveal His identity and power. This echoes the purpose of the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7:5), where God's acts were meant to demonstrate His supremacy over all other gods and nations. It points to the ultimate goal of God's dealings with humanity: that they may know and acknowledge Him as the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who were in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

3. God (Yahweh)
The one true God, who is addressing the idolatry and unfaithfulness of His people.

4. Idolatrous Man
Represents any individual among the Israelites who turns to idols instead of God.

5. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but includes anything that takes the place of God in our hearts.

Reflect on modern "idols" such as money, power, or relationships that may distract us from God.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment is a response to persistent disobedience and serves as a call to repentance.

Understand that divine discipline is meant to bring us back to a right relationship with God.

The Importance of Holiness
Being "cut off" from God's people underscores the need for holiness and separation from sin.

Pursue a life that reflects God's holiness, knowing that our actions have consequences.

God's Desire for Recognition
The phrase "Then you will know that I am the LORD" indicates God's desire for His people to recognize His sovereignty and authority.

Seek to know God more deeply through His Word and obedience to His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern forms of idolatry that can distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does understanding God's judgment in Ezekiel 14:8 help us appreciate His mercy and grace?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are not "cut off" from God's people today, and how does this relate to the New Testament teachings on community and fellowship?

4. How can we apply the lesson of becoming a "sign and a proverb" to our personal lives and witness to others?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's discipline. How did it lead you to a deeper understanding of His lordship in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 20:3-5
Similar language is used regarding God's face being set against those who turn to other gods, emphasizing the seriousness of idolatry.

Deuteronomy 28:37
Discusses becoming a "proverb and a byword" among nations, highlighting the consequences of disobedience.

Jeremiah 44:11
God sets His face against those who persist in idolatry, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment.

2 Chronicles 7:19-22
Warns of becoming a proverb and a byword if the people forsake God, showing the consistency of this warning throughout Scripture.