Ezekiel 5:16

When I shower you with the deadly arrows of famine and destruction that I will send to destroy you, I will intensify the famine against you and cut off your supply of food.

Study Bible

When I shower you with the deadly arrows of famine and destruction
This phrase uses the metaphor of "deadly arrows" to describe the severity of the famine and destruction that God is sending. In ancient warfare, arrows were a common weapon, symbolizing swift and unavoidable judgment. The imagery of arrows suggests precision and intent, indicating that the famine is a direct consequence of the people's disobedience. This aligns with Deuteronomy 32:23-24, where God warns of sending arrows of famine as a curse for breaking the covenant. The use of "shower" implies an overwhelming and inescapable onslaught, emphasizing the seriousness of the judgment.

that I will send to destroy you
The phrase highlights God's active role in the judgment. It reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and curses are contingent upon obedience (Leviticus 26:14-26). The destruction is not arbitrary but a response to persistent rebellion and idolatry. Historically, this prophecy was fulfilled during the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, where famine and destruction were rampant (2 Kings 25:1-3). This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

I will intensify the famine against you
The intensification of the famine underscores the escalating nature of divine judgment. It suggests a progressive worsening of conditions, reflecting the seriousness of the people's sin. This intensification can be seen as a call to repentance, urging the people to recognize their need for God. Theologically, it points to the principle that sin leads to increasing separation from God, resulting in greater suffering. This is consistent with the warnings found in Leviticus 26:18-20, where God promises to multiply punishments if the people do not repent.

and cut off your supply of food
Cutting off the food supply signifies a complete breakdown of societal and economic structures. In the ancient Near East, food scarcity was a dire threat, often leading to social unrest and collapse. This phrase indicates the totality of the judgment, affecting every aspect of life. It also serves as a fulfillment of the curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:48, where God warns of hunger and deprivation as consequences of disobedience. Theologically, it points to the spiritual truth that apart from God, there is no sustenance or life, echoing Jesus' teaching in John 15:5 about the necessity of abiding in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

3. Famine
A severe shortage of food, used here as a metaphor for God's judgment on the people for their sins.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as the backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

5. Jerusalem
The city that is under judgment, representing the spiritual and physical center of the Israelites' identity.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has real consequences, both spiritually and physically. The famine represents the severe impact of turning away from God.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control, even in judgment. The "deadly arrows of famine" are sent by God, showing His authority over creation and history.

Call to Repentance
The purpose of judgment is not merely punishment but to lead people back to God. It is a call to examine our lives and repent.

Dependence on God
The cutting off of bread supply reminds us of our dependence on God for our daily needs. It challenges us to trust Him in times of scarcity.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While the immediate context is judgment, the broader account of Scripture points to restoration and hope for those who turn back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "deadly arrows of famine" in Ezekiel 5:16 help us understand the seriousness of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the concept of famine as a consequence of disobedience appear in other parts of the Bible, and what can we learn from these connections?

3. How can we apply the lesson of dependence on God for our daily needs in our modern context?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living in obedience to God, avoiding the spiritual "famine" that comes from turning away from Him?

5. How does the message of hope and restoration in the broader account of Scripture encourage us when we face times of judgment or discipline in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including famine as a consequence of turning away from God.

Deuteronomy 28
Similar to Leviticus, it details the blessings and curses, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Jeremiah 24
Jeremiah also speaks of the consequences of disobedience, including famine, as part of God's judgment.

Revelation 6
The imagery of famine as a form of divine judgment is echoed in the apocalyptic visions of Revelation.