Ezekiel 29:20

I have given him the land of Egypt as the reward for his labor, because it was done for Me, declares the Lord GOD.

Study Bible

I have given him the land of Egypt as the reward for his labor
This phrase refers to God's decision to grant Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, the land of Egypt as a recompense for his efforts against Tyre. Historically, Nebuchadnezzar besieged Tyre for many years, and although he did not gain much material wealth from Tyre itself, God promised him Egypt as compensation. This reflects the biblical principle that God is sovereign over nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes. The land of Egypt, a symbol of wealth and power, was a significant reward, indicating the extent of God's control over earthly kingdoms.

because it was done for Me
This part emphasizes that Nebuchadnezzar's actions, though politically motivated, ultimately served God's divine plan. In the broader biblical narrative, God often uses pagan rulers to fulfill His purposes, as seen with Cyrus in Isaiah 45:1. This underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to direct the affairs of nations to achieve His will. It also serves as a reminder that all actions, whether recognized or not, are under God's purview and can be used for His glory.

declares the Lord GOD
This declaration affirms the authority and certainty of the message. The use of "Lord GOD" (Yahweh Elohim) highlights both the covenantal and sovereign aspects of God's character. It assures the reader that the prophecy is not merely a human prediction but a divine decree. This phrase is a common prophetic formula that underscores the reliability and seriousness of the message, reminding the audience of God's ultimate authority over history and His faithfulness to His word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages, including prophecies of judgment and restoration.

2. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against various nations, including Egypt.

3. Egypt
A powerful nation in ancient times, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people. In this context, it is the subject of God's judgment.

4. Babylon
The empire ruled by Nebuchadnezzar, which God used to execute His judgment on other nations, including Egypt.

5. The Lord GOD
The sovereign ruler of the universe, who orchestrates events according to His divine will and purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to fulfill His purposes. This should give us confidence in His ultimate plan, even when world events seem chaotic.

Divine Justice and Reward
God rewards those who serve His purposes, even if unknowingly, as seen with Nebuchadnezzar. This reminds us that God sees and rewards all labor done for Him.

The Futility of Worldly Power
Egypt, a symbol of worldly power, is subject to God's judgment. We should not place our trust in worldly powers but in God alone.

God's Use of Unlikely Instruments
God can use anyone, even those who do not acknowledge Him, to accomplish His will. This encourages us to see God's hand in unexpected places and people.

Faithfulness in Service
Just as Nebuchadnezzar was rewarded for his labor, we are encouraged to be faithful in our service to God, trusting that He will reward us in His time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty over nations impact your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can you see God using unlikely people or situations in your life to accomplish His purposes?

3. How can the example of Egypt's judgment encourage you to place your trust in God rather than worldly powers?

4. What are some ways you can ensure that your labor is aligned with God's purposes, even if the reward is not immediate?

5. How does the concept of divine justice and reward challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:9
This passage also speaks of Nebuchadnezzar as God's servant, used to bring judgment upon nations, including Egypt.

Isaiah 19:1-4
Isaiah prophesies about the judgment of Egypt, which aligns with Ezekiel's prophecy, showing a consistent theme of God's sovereignty over nations.

Daniel 4:17
This verse highlights God's sovereignty in appointing rulers and using them for His purposes, similar to how He used Nebuchadnezzar.