Ezekiel 21:28

Now prophesy, son of man, and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says concerning the Ammonites and their contempt: 'A sword! A sword is drawn for slaughter, polished to consume, to flash like lightning--

Study Bible

Now prophesy, son of man,
This phrase identifies Ezekiel as the "son of man," a term used frequently in the book to emphasize his humanity and role as a prophet. It underscores the divine authority given to Ezekiel to deliver God's message. The term "son of man" is also significant in the New Testament, where it is used by Jesus to refer to Himself, highlighting His role as the ultimate prophet and mediator between God and humanity.

and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase establishes the divine origin of the message. It is not Ezekiel's own words but a direct communication from God. This underscores the authority and seriousness of the prophecy. The use of "Lord GOD" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power, a common theme in Ezekiel's prophecies.

concerning the Ammonites and their contempt:
The Ammonites were a neighboring nation of Israel, often in conflict with them. Their contempt refers to their hostility and mockery towards Israel, especially during times of Israel's distress. Historically, the Ammonites were descendants of Lot and had a long-standing enmity with Israel. This prophecy indicates that God is aware of their actions and will hold them accountable.

‘A sword! A sword is drawn for slaughter,
The sword symbolizes impending judgment and destruction. In biblical imagery, the sword often represents divine judgment (e.g., Isaiah 34:5-6). The repetition emphasizes the certainty and severity of the coming judgment. Historically, this could refer to the Babylonian army, which God used as an instrument of judgment against various nations, including the Ammonites.

polished to consume,
The polishing of the sword suggests readiness and inevitability. It is prepared to fulfill its purpose of judgment. This imagery conveys the thoroughness and decisiveness of God's judgment. The idea of consumption indicates total destruction, leaving nothing behind.

to flash like lightning—
The comparison to lightning suggests the suddenness and swiftness of the judgment. Lightning is often associated with divine presence and power in the Bible (e.g., Exodus 19:16). This imagery reinforces the idea that God's judgment will be both powerful and unavoidable. The use of such vivid imagery serves to instill a sense of urgency and seriousness in the audience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites and surrounding nations during the Babylonian exile.

2. Ammonites
A neighboring nation of Israel, often in conflict with Israel, known for their contempt and hostility towards God's people.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and just God who pronounces judgment on nations, including the Ammonites, for their actions and attitudes.

4. The Sword
Symbolizes God's impending judgment and the instrument of His wrath against the Ammonites.

5. Prophecy
The act of delivering God's message, often concerning future events, as Ezekiel does here regarding the Ammonites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and their destinies. His judgments are just and serve His divine purposes.

The Consequences of Contempt
The Ammonites' contempt for God's people led to their downfall. We must guard against attitudes of pride and hostility.

The Certainty of God's Judgment
Just as the sword is drawn and polished, God's judgment is certain and will come to pass. We should live in a way that honors God and avoids His wrath.

Prophetic Warnings
God often provides warnings through His prophets. We should heed these warnings and align our lives with His will.

Trust in God's Justice
In a world where injustice seems prevalent, we can trust that God will ultimately bring about justice in His perfect timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against the Ammonites in Ezekiel 21:28 reflect God's justice and sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of contempt and pride in our own lives or society today?

3. How does the imagery of the sword in Ezekiel 21:28 help us understand the seriousness of God's judgment?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Ammonites' fate that can be applied to our personal walk with God?

5. How can we trust in God's justice and timing when we face situations of injustice or hostility in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 49
This chapter also contains prophecies against the Ammonites, highlighting their judgment due to their pride and hostility towards Israel.

Isaiah 10
Discusses the concept of God's judgment using the metaphor of a sword, similar to Ezekiel's prophecy.

Psalm 7
Speaks of God's righteous judgment and His readiness to wield His sword against the wicked.

Zephaniah 2
Contains prophecies against various nations, including the Ammonites, emphasizing God's sovereignty over all nations.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to leave vengeance to God, who will repay, aligning with the theme of divine justice seen in Ezekiel.