Ezekiel 20:5

and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: On the day I chose Israel, I swore an oath to the descendants of the house of Jacob and made Myself known to them in the land of Egypt. With an uplifted hand I said to them, 'I am the LORD your God.'

Study Bible

and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says:
This phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the message. The use of "Lord GOD" underscores the sovereignty and covenantal relationship God has with Israel. This introduction is common in prophetic literature, indicating that the message is not from the prophet himself but from God.

On the day I chose Israel:
This refers to God's sovereign election of Israel as His chosen people. The concept of divine election is central to the identity of Israel, as seen in Deuteronomy 7:6-8. This choice is rooted in God's love and faithfulness, not in any merit of Israel.

I swore an oath to the descendants of the house of Jacob:
The oath signifies a binding promise, reflecting the covenantal nature of God's relationship with Israel. The "house of Jacob" refers to the patriarch Jacob, whose descendants became the twelve tribes of Israel. This oath is reminiscent of the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as seen in Genesis 12:1-3 and Genesis 28:13-15.

and made Myself known to them in the land of Egypt:
God's self-revelation in Egypt is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking the beginning of their deliverance from slavery. This revelation is associated with the plagues and the Exodus, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness. It also foreshadows the greater deliverance through Christ, as seen in the New Testament.

With an uplifted hand I said to them:
The "uplifted hand" is a symbol of God's power and authority, often associated with making a solemn oath or promise. This imagery is used throughout Scripture to convey God's active involvement and commitment to His people, as seen in Exodus 6:8.

‘I am the LORD your God.’
This declaration establishes the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It is a reaffirmation of the first commandment (Exodus 20:2-3), emphasizing exclusive worship and allegiance to God. This phrase also points to the identity of God as the covenant-keeping deity, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who establishes a new covenant with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD (Yahweh)
The sovereign God who chose Israel and made a covenant with them.

2. Israel
The chosen people of God, descendants of the house of Jacob, whom God delivered from Egypt.

3. House of Jacob
Refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, emphasizing their patriarchal lineage.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved and from which God delivered them.

5. The Day of Choosing
The specific time when God chose Israel as His people and revealed Himself to them.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God chose Israel not because of their merit but because of His sovereign will and purpose. This reminds us of the grace inherent in God's calling.

Covenant Faithfulness
God's covenant with Israel is a testament to His faithfulness. As believers, we are called to trust in God's promises, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them.

Identity in God
The declaration "I am the LORD your God" establishes Israel's identity in relation to God. Similarly, our identity as Christians is rooted in our relationship with Christ.

Deliverance and Redemption
Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt, He delivers us from sin through Jesus Christ. This calls us to live in the freedom and new life He provides.

Revelation of God
God made Himself known to Israel, and He continues to reveal Himself to us through His Word and Spirit. We are encouraged to seek a deeper understanding of His nature and will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's choice of Israel enhance our appreciation of His grace in choosing us as believers?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in our own lives, similar to His covenant faithfulness to Israel?

3. How does our identity in Christ influence the way we live and interact with the world around us?

4. What are some "Egypts" in our lives from which God has delivered us, and how can we live in the freedom He provides?

5. How can we actively seek to know God more deeply, and what practices can help us grow in our relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6
This chapter details God's promise to deliver Israel from Egypt, highlighting His covenant and the revelation of His name, Yahweh, to Moses.

Deuteronomy 7
This passage emphasizes God's choice of Israel as His treasured possession, not because of their size or strength, but because of His love and faithfulness to His covenant.

Psalm 105
This psalm recounts God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham and His deliverance of Israel from Egypt, celebrating His mighty works and promises.