Ezekiel 39:21

I will display My glory among the nations, and all the nations will see the judgment that I execute and the hand that I lay upon them.

Study Bible

I will display My glory among the nations
This phrase emphasizes God's intention to reveal His majesty and power to all peoples, not just Israel. The display of God's glory often involves His mighty acts and divine intervention, as seen in the Exodus (Exodus 14:4, 17-18). The concept of God's glory is central to His nature and is often associated with His holiness and righteousness (Isaiah 6:3). In the context of Ezekiel, this display is a demonstration of God's sovereignty over all nations, fulfilling His promise to make His name known throughout the earth (Psalm 46:10).

and all the nations will see the judgment that I execute
This indicates a universal witness to God's righteous judgment. The nations witnessing God's judgment reflects the theme of divine justice found throughout the prophetic books (Isaiah 66:18). Historically, this can be linked to the fall of nations that opposed Israel, such as Babylon and Assyria, which served as examples of God's judgment. Theologically, it points to the eschatological judgment where all nations will be held accountable (Matthew 25:31-32).

and the hand that I lay upon them
The "hand" of God symbolizes His power and authority. In biblical terms, God's hand is often associated with deliverance and judgment (Exodus 7:5). This phrase suggests direct divine intervention, as seen in the plagues of Egypt or the defeat of Israel's enemies. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God over evil, as depicted in Revelation 19:11-21. The laying of God's hand signifies both punishment for the wicked and protection for His people, highlighting His role as both judge and savior.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, displaying His glory and executing judgment.

2. Nations
Refers to the Gentile nations, witnessing God's glory and judgment.

3. Israel
Implicitly involved as the people through whom God’s glory is revealed.

4. Judgment
The act of divine justice executed by God, demonstrating His power and righteousness.

5. Glory
The manifestation of God's presence and power, visible to all nations.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God's ability to display His glory and execute judgment underscores His ultimate authority over all nations. Believers are reminded to trust in His sovereign plan.

Universal Witness
The display of God's glory among the nations highlights the universal scope of His revelation. Christians are called to be witnesses of God's glory in their own lives.

Judgment as a Revelation of Glory
God's judgment is not merely punitive but serves to reveal His righteousness and holiness. Believers should understand that divine justice is an aspect of God's glorious character.

Call to Repentance
The nations witnessing God's judgment are given an opportunity to turn to Him. This serves as a reminder for believers to live lives of repentance and encourage others to do the same.

Hope in God's Justice
The assurance of God's righteous judgment provides hope for believers facing injustice. It reassures them that God will ultimately set things right.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the display of God's glory among the nations in Ezekiel 39:21 relate to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

2. In what ways can believers today be witnesses of God's glory in their communities?

3. How does understanding God's judgment as an aspect of His glory affect our view of justice and righteousness?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to live lives that reflect God's glory to those around us?

5. How does the assurance of God's ultimate justice provide comfort and hope in the face of current global injustices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 66
This chapter also speaks of God's glory being revealed to all nations, emphasizing the universal scope of His majesty and judgment.

Revelation 19
Describes the final judgment and the display of God's glory, connecting the prophetic vision of Ezekiel with the eschatological fulfillment in Revelation.

Psalm 96
Calls for all nations to recognize the glory and strength of the Lord, paralleling the theme of God's glory being displayed among the nations.