Ezekiel 28:26

And there they will dwell securely, build houses, and plant vineyards. They will dwell securely when I execute judgments against all those around them who treat them with contempt. Then they will know that I am the LORD their God.'"

Study Bible

And there they will dwell securely
This phrase speaks to the promise of safety and peace for the Israelites. Historically, Israel faced numerous threats from surrounding nations, including the Philistines, Moabites, and Edomites. The promise of dwelling securely indicates a future time of divine protection and stability. This security is often associated with the Messianic age, a time when God’s people will experience peace under the reign of the Messiah, as prophesied in Isaiah 11:6-9.

build houses, and plant vineyards
Building houses and planting vineyards symbolize permanence and prosperity. In ancient Israel, these activities were signs of settled life and blessing, contrasting with the nomadic or exilic experiences of the Israelites. The imagery recalls the blessings of the Promised Land described in Deuteronomy 6:10-11, where God promised a land of abundance. It also reflects the restoration themes found in Amos 9:14, where God promises to restore the fortunes of His people.

They will dwell securely when I execute judgments against all those around them who treat them with contempt
This phrase underscores the divine justice that God will enact against Israel's enemies. The surrounding nations often oppressed and scorned Israel, as seen in the historical accounts of Assyria and Babylon. God's judgments are a recurring theme in the prophetic books, where He promises to vindicate His people and punish their oppressors, as seen in Isaiah 34:8 and Jeremiah 25:31. This divine intervention ensures the security and peace of Israel.

Then they will know that I am the LORD their God.’”
The recognition of God as LORD is a central theme in Ezekiel. This acknowledgment comes through His acts of judgment and restoration. The phrase emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God’s actions reveal His sovereignty and faithfulness. This recognition is not just intellectual but relational, leading to a deeper understanding and worship of God, as seen in similar declarations in Ezekiel 36:23 and 39:28. The ultimate fulfillment of this knowledge is found in the New Covenant, where God’s people will know Him intimately through Jesus Christ, as prophesied in Jeremiah 31:33-34.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who are promised security and prosperity in their land.

2. Neighbors
The surrounding nations that have treated Israel with contempt and hostility.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who promises protection and judgment.

4. Judgments
Divine actions against Israel's enemies, ensuring their security.

5. Land of Israel
The promised land where the Israelites will dwell securely.

Teaching Points

Security in God's Promises
God's promises of security and prosperity are contingent upon His divine judgment and protection. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises.

Divine Justice
God's execution of judgment against those who oppose His people demonstrates His justice. This assures believers that God will ultimately vindicate His people.

Living in Peace
The promise of living securely and prosperously encourages believers to seek peace and stability in their own lives through obedience to God.

Recognition of God's Sovereignty
The ultimate purpose of God's actions is that His people will know Him as the LORD. Believers are called to recognize and submit to God's sovereignty in their lives.

Community and Restoration
The imagery of building houses and planting vineyards signifies community and restoration. Believers are encouraged to invest in their communities and work towards restoration and growth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of security in Ezekiel 28:26 relate to the broader theme of God's covenant with Israel?

2. In what ways can we see God's justice at work in our own lives and communities today?

3. How can we apply the concept of living securely in God's promises to our daily lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to build and restore our communities, as symbolized by building houses and planting vineyards?

5. How does recognizing God's sovereignty impact our response to challenges and opposition in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
Discusses the blessings of obedience, including security and prosperity in the land.

Jeremiah 32
Promises of restoration and security for Israel after judgment.

Psalm 23
The theme of God as a shepherd providing security and peace.

Isaiah 32
Prophecies about a future of peace and security under God's reign.

Zechariah 8
Visions of a restored Jerusalem where people live in peace and prosperity.