Ezekiel 7:22

I will turn My face away from them, and they will defile My treasured place. Violent men will enter it, and they will defile it.

Study Bible

I will turn My face away from them
This phrase indicates God's withdrawal of His presence and favor, a significant theme in the Old Testament when Israel turns away from God. It reflects the covenantal relationship where God's protection is contingent upon Israel's faithfulness. The turning away of God's face signifies judgment and abandonment, similar to the language used in Deuteronomy 31:17-18, where God warns of hiding His face due to Israel's idolatry. This withdrawal is a precursor to the coming destruction and exile, emphasizing the seriousness of Israel's sin.

and they will defile My treasured place
The "treasured place" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, considered the dwelling place of God and the center of Jewish worship. The defilement of the temple is a profound act of sacrilege, highlighting the depth of Israel's apostasy. Historically, the temple was defiled by idolatrous practices, as seen in 2 Kings 21:4-5, where altars to foreign gods were erected. This defilement is both literal and symbolic, representing the nation's spiritual corruption and the loss of God's presence.

Violent men will enter it
This phrase predicts the invasion by foreign powers, specifically the Babylonians, who would conquer Jerusalem and desecrate the temple. The term "violent men" underscores the brutality and force with which the invaders would act, fulfilling the prophetic warnings given by Ezekiel and other prophets. This invasion is a direct consequence of Israel's disobedience, as outlined in Leviticus 26:14-17, where God warns of foreign domination as a result of breaking the covenant.

and they will defile it
The repetition of defilement emphasizes the complete desecration of the temple, both by the invading forces and by the Israelites' own actions. This act is a fulfillment of prophecy and serves as a type of the ultimate desecration that would occur in the future, as referenced in Daniel 9:27 and Matthew 24:15, pointing to the abomination of desolation. The defilement of the temple is a powerful symbol of the broken relationship between God and His people, necessitating eventual restoration and redemption through Christ, who is the true temple (John 2:19-21).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. God
The sovereign Lord who is pronouncing judgment on Israel for their idolatry and rebellion.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, now facing judgment due to their persistent sin and idolatry.

4. The Temple
Referred to as "My treasured place," it is the sacred site in Jerusalem where God's presence dwelt among His people.

5. Robbers
Symbolic of the invading forces (likely the Babylonians) who will desecrate the temple, representing God's judgment.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to separation from God, as seen in His turning away from Israel. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

The Holiness of God's Dwelling
The temple was desecrated due to Israel's sin. We are now God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16), and must strive to keep our lives holy.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgment is just and serves as a call to repentance. We should respond to His discipline with humility and a desire to return to Him.

The Importance of Repentance
Even in judgment, God’s desire is for His people to turn back to Him. Repentance restores our relationship with God.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While Ezekiel 7:22 speaks of judgment, the broader account of Scripture assures us of God's redemptive plan through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God turning His face away challenge your understanding of His character, and how can this understanding impact your daily walk with Him?

2. In what ways can modern believers fall into idolatry, and how can we guard against it in our personal lives?

3. Reflect on the significance of being God's temple today. How does this influence your actions and decisions?

4. How can we discern God's discipline in our lives, and what steps can we take to respond appropriately?

5. Consider the hope offered in the broader account of Scripture. How does this hope encourage you in times of personal or communal judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26
Discusses the consequences of Israel's disobedience, including God turning His face away, which parallels the judgment in Ezekiel.

Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah warns of the coming destruction of the temple due to the people's false sense of security and idolatry.

2 Kings 25
Describes the actual historical event of the Babylonian invasion and the desecration of the temple.

Psalm 27
Contrasts the idea of God turning His face away with the psalmist's plea for God not to hide His face.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon as a symbol of God's ultimate judgment on sin and rebellion.