Ezekiel 39:28

Then they will know that I am the LORD their God, when I regather them to their own land, not leaving any of them behind after their exile among the nations.

Study Bible

Then they will know that I am the LORD their God
This phrase emphasizes the recognition of God's sovereignty and covenant relationship with Israel. Throughout the Old Testament, knowing God is often associated with experiencing His power and faithfulness (Exodus 6:7, Jeremiah 24:7). This knowledge is not merely intellectual but relational, involving trust and obedience. The context of Ezekiel is the restoration of Israel, where God's actions will lead to a renewed understanding of His identity and authority.

when I regather them to their own land
The regathering of Israel is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, symbolizing God's faithfulness to His promises (Deuteronomy 30:3-5, Isaiah 11:11-12). Historically, this refers to the return from Babylonian exile, but it also points to a future, eschatological gathering. The land is central to Israel's identity and covenant with God, as seen in Genesis 12:7. This regathering is both a physical and spiritual restoration, highlighting God's redemptive plan.

not leaving any of them behind
This phrase underscores the completeness of God's restoration. It reflects the thoroughness of God's promise, ensuring that all of His people are included. This can be seen as a reversal of the scattering due to disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:64). The inclusivity here points to God's grace and the fulfillment of His covenant, ensuring that none of His chosen people are forgotten.

after their exile among the nations
The exile is a significant event in Israel's history, serving as both punishment and purification (2 Kings 17:6, 2 Chronicles 36:20-21). It represents a period of judgment but also hope for future restoration. The scattering among the nations fulfills earlier prophecies of dispersion due to unfaithfulness (Leviticus 26:33). The return from exile is a testament to God's mercy and the beginning of a new chapter in Israel's relationship with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who demonstrates His sovereignty and faithfulness through His actions.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were sent into exile due to their disobedience but are promised restoration.

3. Exile
The period when the Israelites were scattered among the nations as a consequence of their sin.

4. Nations
The foreign lands where the Israelites were dispersed during their exile.

5. Their own land
Refers to the land of Israel, the promised land to which God promises to gather His people back.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is in control of history, and His promises are sure. He is faithful to His covenant, even when His people are unfaithful.

The Purpose of Discipline
Exile was a form of divine discipline meant to bring Israel back to repentance. God's discipline is always redemptive, not punitive.

Hope of Restoration
No matter how far we stray, God offers hope and restoration. He promises to gather His people and leave none behind.

Identity and Belonging
Our identity is rooted in being God's people. Despite circumstances, we belong to Him, and He will bring us back to our spiritual home.

God's Global Plan
The scattering and regathering of Israel point to God's larger plan for the nations, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in sending Israel into exile impact your view of current personal or global challenges?

2. In what ways can the promise of restoration in Ezekiel 39:28 encourage you in your spiritual journey today?

3. How does the theme of divine discipline and restoration in Ezekiel 39:28 relate to Hebrews 12:5-11, which discusses God's discipline?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that you remain faithful to God, knowing that He is faithful to His promises?

5. How can the promise of God leaving "none of them behind" inspire you to reach out to those who feel distant from God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:3-5
This passage speaks of God's promise to restore Israel from captivity, similar to the promise in Ezekiel 39:28.

Jeremiah 29:14
God promises to bring back His people from all the nations where He has driven them, echoing the theme of restoration.

Isaiah 11:11-12
Describes the gathering of the remnant of Israel from the four corners of the earth, reinforcing the theme of regathering.

Romans 11:26-27
Paul speaks of the future salvation of Israel, which aligns with the prophetic promise of restoration.

Zechariah 10:6
God promises to strengthen and restore His people, similar to the assurance given in Ezekiel.