How should believers respond to God's judgment as seen in Ezekiel 32:11? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 32 records God’s lament over Pharaoh and Egypt. Verse 11 delivers the decisive word: “For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘The sword of the king of Babylon will come against you.’”. The Lord is announcing a real, historical judgment—Babylon as His chosen instrument to humble Egypt’s pride. Understanding God’s Judgment in Ezekiel 32:11 • Judgment is personal: “the Lord GOD says.” God Himself speaks; judgment is never random. • Judgment is purposeful: the “sword” is not chaos but a tool in God’s hand. • Judgment is certain: “will come.” God’s word is unfailing. • Judgment is just: Egypt’s arrogance and oppression have invited righteous recompense (cf. Ezekiel 31:10-11). Why God’s Judgment Matters Today • God’s character is unchanged (Malachi 3:6). The holiness that disciplined Egypt still stands. • Nations and individuals remain accountable (Acts 17:31). • Seeing judgment fulfilled in history strengthens our confidence that future promises—including final judgment—are literal and trustworthy (Revelation 20:11-15). Recommended Responses for Believers • Reverent fear – Stand in awe of God’s holiness (Psalm 33:8). – Reject any casual attitude toward sin; judgment shows sin is never trivial. • Humble self-examination – Invite the Spirit to search the heart (Psalm 139:23-24). – Confess and forsake hidden pride before it bears bitter fruit (1 John 1:9). • Submission to God’s discipline – Embrace correction as evidence of sonship (Hebrews 12:5-11; Proverbs 3:11-12). – Allow hardship to shape holiness rather than provoke resentment. • Intercession for others – Pray for leaders and nations to heed warnings before consequences fall (1 Timothy 2:1-2; Jeremiah 27:18). – Stand in the gap like Ezekiel was called to do (Ezekiel 22:30). • Proclamation of the gospel – Judgment underscores the urgency of salvation (2 Corinthians 5:11). – Share Christ as the only refuge from coming wrath (Romans 5:9). • Hopeful anticipation – Remember God’s justice will culminate in a world set right (2 Peter 3:13). – Encourage one another that present judgments point to the ultimate renewal God has promised. Encouragement from Other Scriptures “Note then the kindness and severity of God” (Romans 11:22). “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be zealous and repent.” (Revelation 3:19). “Blessed is the one You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law” (Psalm 94:12). Ezekiel 32:11 reminds us that God’s judgments are real, righteous, and redemptive. Responding with reverent fear, humble repentance, and bold gospel witness keeps us aligned with His purposes and confident in His unchanging Word. |
    |