Ezekiel 29:17

In the twenty-seventh year, on the first day of the first month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

In the twenty-seventh year
This phrase refers to the twenty-seventh year of the Babylonian exile, which began in 597 BC when King Jehoiachin and many others were taken captive. This places the prophecy around 570 BC. The specific dating underscores the historical accuracy and reliability of the prophetic message, emphasizing God's control over history.

on the first day of the first month
The first month in the Hebrew calendar is Nisan, which corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. This timing is significant as it marks the beginning of the Jewish religious year, a time of renewal and reflection. It is also the month of Passover, a festival commemorating Israel's deliverance from Egypt, which adds a layer of meaning to the prophecy against Egypt.

the word of the LORD came to me, saying,
This phrase indicates divine revelation, a common introduction in prophetic literature. It emphasizes that the message is not from the prophet's own mind but from God Himself. The phrase "word of the LORD" is used throughout the Old Testament to signify authoritative communication from God, often carrying a message of judgment or hope. This underscores the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, delivering His messages to the people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's word. He is known for his visions and prophecies concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His divine will and plans through His prophets.

3. Egypt
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, the context of Ezekiel 29 involves prophecies against Egypt, a nation that had been a significant power and often an adversary or unreliable ally to Israel.

4. Babylon
The rising power during Ezekiel's time, which God uses as an instrument of judgment against other nations, including Egypt.

5. The Twenty-Seventh Year
This date marks a specific time in Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, providing historical context for the prophecy.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to fulfill His purposes. This should remind us of His ultimate authority and our need to trust in His plans.

The Importance of Prophetic Timing
The specific timing of prophecies highlights God's precision and faithfulness. We can trust that God's timing in our lives is perfect, even when we do not understand it.

Judgment and Restoration
God's messages often include both judgment and hope. We should be aware of our actions and their consequences, but also hold onto the hope of restoration through repentance.

Reliance on God, Not Human Alliances
Israel's history with Egypt shows the danger of relying on human strength rather than God. We should evaluate where we place our trust and ensure it is in God alone.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel were vital in communicating God's word. We should value and seek out God's word in our lives, understanding its relevance and authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific timing of this prophecy (the twenty-seventh year) enhance our understanding of God's control over history?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty over nations in today's world, and how should this influence our prayers and actions?

3. Reflect on a time when you relied on human strength or alliances instead of God. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from it?

4. How can we discern and apply the messages of judgment and hope found in the Bible to our personal lives and communities?

5. Considering the role of prophets in the Bible, how can we ensure we are listening to and valuing God's word in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 29:1-16
Provides the context for the prophecy against Egypt, detailing God's judgment on Pharaoh and Egypt for their pride and false reliance.

Jeremiah 46
Another prophecy against Egypt, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His use of Babylon as an instrument of judgment.

Isaiah 19
Offers a broader perspective on Egypt's future, including both judgment and eventual blessing, showing God's ultimate plan for redemption.