Ezekiel 24:25

And you, son of man, know that on the day I take away their stronghold, their pride and joy--the desire of their eyes which uplifted their souls--and their sons and daughters as well,

Study Bible

And you, son of man,
This phrase addresses Ezekiel, who is often referred to as "son of man" throughout the book. This title emphasizes his humanity and role as a prophet among the people. It is a reminder of his position as a mediator between God and Israel, highlighting his task to deliver God's messages.

know that on the day I take away their stronghold,
The "stronghold" refers to Jerusalem, the city that the Israelites believed to be invincible due to God's presence in the temple. Historically, Jerusalem was a fortified city, and its fall to the Babylonians in 586 BC was a significant event. This phrase indicates God's judgment and the removal of what the people falsely relied upon for security.

their pride and joy—
Jerusalem and the temple were sources of national pride for the Israelites. The temple was not only a religious center but also a symbol of their identity and God's favor. The loss of these would be a devastating blow to their national and spiritual pride.

the desire of their eyes which uplifted their souls—
This phrase poetically describes the deep emotional and spiritual attachment the Israelites had to the temple and Jerusalem. It was the center of their worship and cultural life, and its beauty and significance were deeply cherished. The removal of this "desire" signifies a profound loss and a call to refocus their devotion on God rather than physical structures.

and their sons and daughters as well,
The inclusion of "sons and daughters" underscores the totality of the impending judgment. It highlights the personal and familial impact of the Babylonian conquest, as many would be killed or taken into exile. This reflects the broader biblical theme of generational consequences of sin and disobedience, as seen in other scriptures like Deuteronomy 28. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of turning away from God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. Known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts.

2. Son of Man
A title used frequently in Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people.

3. Israelites
The people of God who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry. They are the primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Jerusalem
The city that is the stronghold, joy, and glory of the Israelites, which is prophesied to be taken away due to their sins.

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

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
The Israelites' attachment to their city and temple became idolatrous, leading to their downfall. We must guard against allowing anything to take the place of God in our lives.

False Security
Trusting in material or earthly things for security can lead to disappointment. Our true security should be in God alone.

The Pain of Loss
The prophecy highlights the deep pain of losing what is cherished. It reminds us to hold our blessings with open hands, acknowledging God's sovereignty.

Hope in Exile
Even in the midst of judgment and loss, God’s ultimate plan is for restoration. We can find hope in His promises, even when circumstances seem dire.

God’s Sovereignty
The removal of the Israelites' stronghold underscores God's control over nations and history. We can trust His purposes, even when they are beyond our understanding.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "strongholds" that people might place their trust in, and how can we ensure our trust remains in God?

2. How does the fall of Jerusalem serve as a warning against idolatry in our own lives?

3. In what ways can we find hope and assurance in God's sovereignty during times of personal loss or national crisis?

4. How does the theme of exile in Ezekiel relate to the Christian experience of living as "strangers and exiles" in the world today?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced loss. How did your faith in God help you navigate that season, and what scriptures provided comfort?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 7
This chapter discusses the false security the Israelites had in the temple, similar to the misplaced trust in their "stronghold" mentioned in Ezekiel 24:25.

Lamentations 1
Describes the sorrow and desolation of Jerusalem, echoing the loss of joy and glory prophesied by Ezekiel.

Psalm 137
Captures the longing and sorrow of the Israelites in exile, reflecting the "longing of their souls" mentioned in Ezekiel.

2 Kings 25
Provides a historical account of the fall of Jerusalem, fulfilling the prophecy of its destruction.