Ezekiel 28:24

For the people of Israel will no longer face a pricking brier or a painful thorn from all around them who treat them with contempt. Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD.'

Study Bible

For the people of Israel will no longer face a pricking brier or a painful thorn
This phrase uses the imagery of briers and thorns, which are often symbolic of obstacles, suffering, or enemies in biblical literature. In Genesis 3:18, thorns and thistles are part of the curse upon the ground after the Fall, representing hardship and struggle. Here, they symbolize the nations and peoples who have been a source of pain and persecution for Israel. The promise that Israel will no longer face these "briers" or "thorns" suggests a future time of peace and security, free from the harassment of hostile neighbors. This can be seen as a prophetic vision of restoration and divine protection.

from all around them who treat them with contempt.
The phrase "from all around them" indicates the surrounding nations that have historically been adversaries to Israel, such as the Philistines, Edomites, Moabites, and Ammonites. These nations often treated Israel with contempt, as seen throughout the historical books of the Old Testament. The contempt could be due to Israel's unique covenant relationship with God, which set them apart from other nations. This promise of relief from contempt suggests a reversal of fortunes, where Israel will no longer be scorned or oppressed by its neighbors. This aligns with prophecies of Israel's future exaltation and the subjugation of its enemies, as seen in Isaiah 60:14.

Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD.’
This concluding phrase emphasizes the recognition of God's sovereignty and power. The repeated biblical theme of knowing that He is the Lord underscores the purpose behind God's actions—whether in judgment or blessing. In Ezekiel, this phrase often follows declarations of divine intervention, serving as a reminder that God's ultimate goal is to reveal Himself to His people and the nations. The acknowledgment of God as "the Lord GOD" signifies His authority and covenantal faithfulness. This recognition is not just intellectual but relational, calling Israel and the nations to acknowledge His rightful place as the sovereign ruler. This theme is echoed in other prophetic books, such as Isaiah and Jeremiah, where God's acts lead to a deeper understanding and acknowledgment of His divine nature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. House of Israel
Refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation, who have experienced both judgment and restoration throughout biblical history.

2. Thorn and Briar
Metaphorical language used to describe the hostile nations surrounding Israel, causing them distress and suffering.

3. Neighbors
The surrounding nations that have historically been adversaries to Israel, often leading them into idolatry and conflict.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who promises deliverance and vindication for His people.

5. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, who conveyed God's messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Deliverance
God is in control of all nations and will ultimately deliver His people from their adversaries.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's suffering was often a result of their disobedience and idolatry, reminding us of the importance of faithfulness to God.

Hope and Restoration
Despite past judgments, God promises restoration and peace for His people, offering hope for the future.

Recognizing God's Authority
The ultimate purpose of God's actions is that His people will know and acknowledge Him as the Lord.

Living in Peace with Neighbors
As believers, we are called to live at peace with those around us, trusting God to handle conflicts and adversities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of thorns and briars in Ezekiel 28:24 relate to the challenges we face in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the world around us, similar to His dealings with Israel's neighbors?

3. How can the promise of restoration and peace in Ezekiel 28:24 encourage us in times of personal or communal distress?

4. What lessons can we learn from Israel's history of disobedience and God's subsequent discipline?

5. How can we apply the principle of living at peace with our neighbors, as seen in this passage, in our daily interactions and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 55:13
This verse also uses the imagery of thorns and briars, symbolizing the removal of curses and the establishment of peace and prosperity.

Numbers 33:55
Warns Israel about the consequences of not driving out the inhabitants of the land, who would become thorns in their sides.

2 Corinthians 12:7
Paul speaks of a "thorn in the flesh," which can be seen as a metaphor for persistent challenges or adversaries.

Hosea 2:6
Uses the imagery of thorns to describe God's discipline and the obstacles He places to guide His people back to Him.