Ezekiel 29:21

In that day I will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel, and I will open your mouth to speak among them. Then they will know that I am the LORD."

Study Bible

In that day
This phrase often refers to a specific time of divine intervention or fulfillment of prophecy. In the context of Ezekiel, it points to a future moment when God will act decisively on behalf of His people. This aligns with the prophetic tradition where "that day" signifies a time of judgment or restoration, as seen in other prophetic books like Isaiah and Joel.

I will cause a horn to sprout for the house of Israel
The "horn" symbolizes strength and power, often associated with kingship and deliverance. In biblical imagery, a horn represents the might of a ruler or nation. This prophecy suggests the rise of a leader or a period of empowerment for Israel. It can be connected to the Messianic expectation, where the "horn" is seen as a type of Christ, the ultimate deliverer and king from the line of David, as echoed in Luke 1:69.

and I will open your mouth to speak among them
This indicates a restoration of Ezekiel's prophetic voice, which had been silenced as a sign to the people (Ezekiel 3:26-27). The opening of the mouth signifies the return of God's direct communication through His prophet, emphasizing the importance of divine revelation and guidance. It underscores the role of prophets as God's mouthpiece, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament.

Then they will know that I am the LORD
A recurring theme in Ezekiel, this phrase underscores the purpose of God's actions: to reveal His sovereignty and identity to Israel and the nations. It reflects the covenant relationship where recognition of God's lordship is central. This acknowledgment is not just intellectual but involves a relational and covenantal understanding, as seen in the repeated declarations throughout Ezekiel (e.g., Ezekiel 6:7, 7:4).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He is the mouthpiece through whom God delivers His messages.

2. House of Israel
Refers to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation, who are in exile due to their disobedience but are promised restoration.

3. Horn
Symbolically represents strength, power, and victory. In this context, it signifies the restoration and empowerment of Israel.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His promises.

5. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a significant event in Israel's history that serves as the backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is in control of history and fulfills His promises, even when circumstances seem dire.

Symbolism of the Horn
The horn represents God's power and the hope of restoration. Believers can trust in God's strength to bring about His purposes.

Role of the Prophet
Ezekiel's role as God's mouthpiece highlights the importance of speaking God's truth, even in challenging times.

Recognition of the LORD
The ultimate goal of God's actions is that people will know Him as the LORD. Our lives should reflect His glory and lead others to recognize His sovereignty.

Hope in Restoration
Just as Israel was promised restoration, believers today can hold onto the hope of spiritual renewal and redemption through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the "horn" in Ezekiel 29:21 relate to the concept of strength and victory in your personal life?

2. In what ways can you be a "mouthpiece" for God in your community, similar to Ezekiel's role among the Israelites?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty and faithfulness in Ezekiel 29:21 encourage you in times of personal exile or difficulty?

4. What are some practical ways you can help others recognize the LORD in your daily interactions?

5. How does the promise of restoration in Ezekiel 29:21 connect to the hope offered through Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 132:17
This verse also uses the imagery of a "horn" to symbolize the strength and future hope for the house of David, connecting to the messianic promise.

Luke 1:69
In the New Testament, the "horn of salvation" is mentioned in reference to Jesus Christ, linking the Old Testament promise to its fulfillment in the New Testament.

Ezekiel 3:27
Earlier in Ezekiel, God promises to open the prophet's mouth, which parallels the promise in 29:21, emphasizing God's control over prophetic speech.