Ezekiel 23:46

This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Bring a mob against them and consign them to terror and plunder.

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says:
This phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the message. In the prophetic books, the phrase "Thus says the Lord GOD" is a common introduction to a divine pronouncement, underscoring that the message is not from the prophet himself but from God. This establishes the seriousness and certainty of the forthcoming judgment. It reflects the role of prophets as God's mouthpieces, delivering His words to the people.

Bring a mob against them:
The "mob" refers to a group of people or nations that God will use as instruments of judgment. In the context of Ezekiel, this often refers to foreign nations that God raises up to execute His judgment on Israel and Judah for their idolatry and unfaithfulness. Historically, this can be linked to the Babylonian conquest, where God used Babylon as a tool to bring about His judgment. The imagery of a mob suggests chaos and overwhelming force, indicating the severity of the punishment.

And consign them to terror and plunder:
"Terror" and "plunder" describe the consequences of the judgment. Terror indicates the fear and panic that will grip those being judged, while plunder refers to the loss of possessions and wealth. This reflects the historical reality of ancient warfare, where conquering armies would instill fear and take spoils from the defeated. Theologically, it serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God. The use of such terms also connects to the covenant curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28, where disobedience to God would lead to national calamity and defeat.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and righteous judge who pronounces judgment on the sinful actions of the people.

2. Oholah and Oholibah
Symbolic names representing Samaria and Jerusalem, respectively, used in Ezekiel 23 to describe their unfaithfulness and idolatry.

3. The Mob
Represents the nations or forces that God uses as instruments of judgment against the unfaithful cities.

4. Terror and Plunder
The consequences of judgment, indicating the severe punishment and desolation that will befall the cities due to their sins.

5. Ezekiel
The prophet through whom God communicates His message of judgment and calls for repentance.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is the ultimate judge who uses various means to execute His righteous judgment. We must recognize His authority and align our lives with His will.

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Just as Oholah and Oholibah faced severe consequences for their idolatry, we must be aware of the spiritual dangers of turning away from God.

Repentance and Restoration
While judgment is severe, God's desire is for repentance and restoration. We should seek to turn back to God and live faithfully.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel are used by God to warn and guide His people. We should heed the messages of Scripture and apply them to our lives.

Spiritual Vigilance
The call to avoid spiritual adultery and idolatry is timeless. We must remain vigilant in our faith and avoid the temptations of the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "terror and plunder" in Ezekiel 23:46 reflect the seriousness of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of unfaithfulness in our own lives or communities today?

3. How does the role of Ezekiel as a prophet inform our understanding of how God communicates with His people?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment of Oholah and Oholibah and the warnings found in Revelation 17-18?

5. How can we apply the lessons of repentance and restoration from Ezekiel 23 to our personal spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25
This chapter also speaks of God's judgment on nations, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution for unfaithfulness.

Isaiah 47
Describes the downfall of Babylon, paralleling the theme of judgment against those who turn away from God.

Revelation 17-18
The imagery of judgment against the harlot Babylon echoes the themes found in Ezekiel 23, highlighting the consequences of spiritual adultery.