Ezekiel 7:6

The end has come! The end has come! It has roused itself against you. Behold, it has come!

Study Bible

The end has come!
This phrase signifies the imminent judgment upon the nation of Israel, particularly Jerusalem. The repetition emphasizes the certainty and urgency of the message. In the context of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, this declaration is a culmination of warnings given to a rebellious people. Historically, this refers to the Babylonian siege and eventual destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, as He fulfills His promises of judgment for disobedience. This echoes the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28 about the consequences of turning away from God.

The end has come!
The repetition of this phrase underscores the inevitability and finality of the prophesied events. It reflects the Hebrew literary style of using repetition for emphasis. This mirrors the prophetic declarations found in other parts of the Old Testament, such as Amos 8:2, where God declares the end for Israel due to their sins. It also foreshadows the eschatological themes found in the New Testament, particularly in Revelation, where the end times are described with similar urgency and certainty.

It has roused itself against you.
This phrase personifies the end as an active force, suggesting that the judgment is not passive but is actively coming upon the people. The imagery of something rousing itself implies a sudden awakening or activation, indicating that the time for repentance has passed, and the consequences are now unavoidable. This can be connected to the concept of divine retribution, where God's patience has reached its limit, and His righteous anger is stirred. Theologically, it serves as a warning of the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion against God.

Behold, it has come!
The use of "behold" serves as a call to attention, urging the audience to recognize the reality of the situation. This final declaration confirms that the prophesied events are no longer future possibilities but present realities. It is a call to witness the fulfillment of God's word, reinforcing the truth that God's warnings are not empty threats. This can be paralleled with the New Testament call to be watchful and ready for the return of Christ, as seen in passages like Matthew 24:42-44, where believers are urged to be vigilant because the end will come unexpectedly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the mouthpiece of God, delivering messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israel
The primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies, the nation of Israel is facing impending judgment due to their persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. Babylonian Exile
The historical context of Ezekiel's prophecies, where the Israelites are in captivity due to their disobedience to God.

4. Judgment
The central theme of this passage, where God declares the imminent end of His patience with Israel's sinfulness.

5. The End
Symbolic of the culmination of God's warnings and the onset of His righteous judgment against sin.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's declarations are sure and inevitable. Just as He declared the end for Israel, His promises and warnings are trustworthy and will come to pass.

The Call to Repentance
The announcement of the end serves as a final call to repentance. Believers today are reminded to examine their lives and turn away from sin.

The Urgency of the Gospel
The repeated emphasis on "the end" underscores the urgency of sharing the gospel. We are called to be diligent in spreading the message of salvation.

God's Sovereignty Over Time
God controls the timeline of history. Believers can find comfort in His sovereignty, knowing that He orchestrates events according to His perfect will.

Living in Readiness
Just as Israel was warned of the end, Christians are encouraged to live in readiness for Christ's return, maintaining faithfulness and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the certainty of God's judgment in Ezekiel 7:6 impact your understanding of His character and His promises?

2. In what ways can the urgency of "the end" motivate you to share the gospel with those around you?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's patience. How does this passage challenge you to respond to His warnings?

4. How can you apply the concept of living in readiness for Christ's return in your daily life?

5. Compare the themes of judgment in Ezekiel 7:6 with those in Revelation 22:12. What similarities and differences do you observe, and how do they inform your understanding of God's plan for the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Amos 8:2
Similar to Ezekiel, Amos speaks of the end coming upon Israel, emphasizing the certainty and imminence of God's judgment.

Revelation 22:12
This verse speaks of the end times and the return of Christ, drawing a parallel to the concept of "the end" as a time of divine reckoning.

Matthew 24:14
Jesus speaks of the end coming after the gospel is preached to all nations, highlighting the theme of divine timing and fulfillment.