What does "terror of the mighty" in Ezekiel 32:25 teach about God's justice? Verse at a Glance “A bed is made for her among the slain, with all her multitude. Her graves are all around her. All of them are uncircumcised, slain by the sword; though their terror was once in the land of the living, they bear their disgrace with those who descend to the Pit; they are placed among the slain.” (Ezekiel 32:25) Who Are “the Mighty” and Why Were They Terrifying? • In the oracle, God lists once-formidable nations (vv. 17-32)—Egypt, Elam, Meshech, Tubal, and others. • They were “mighty” because of military strength, political reach, and the fear they inspired. • Their “terror” refers to the dread they spread through violence, oppression, and arrogance in “the land of the living”—the realm of human affairs on earth. What the Burial Scene Tells Us • A “bed” among the slain pictures permanent residence in death; there is no return to power. • Surrounded by mass graves, the mighty lie equal with the uncircumcised—with people they once despised. • Their former terror cannot shield them from God’s verdict; instead, they now “bear their disgrace.” Lessons About God’s Justice • Accountability is universal—status, strength, or national pride cannot buy exemption (Psalm 76:12). • Justice may be delayed but never denied; the mighty enjoyed their terror “once,” but judgment came in God’s timing (Ecclesiastes 8:11-12). • God’s justice is measure-for-measure: those who induced terror experience a greater, eternal dread (Matthew 7:2). • Judgment is public and final; their disgrace is visible “among the slain,” affirming that sin’s wages are death (Romans 6:23). • Justice exalts God’s holiness by exposing human pride (Isaiah 13:11; Daniel 4:37). Scripture Echoes • Psalm 9:16 – “The LORD is known by the justice He brings.” • Habakkuk 2:12-16 – Woe to the nation that builds by bloodshed; the cup of the LORD’s wrath will come around. • Galatians 6:7 – “God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” • Revelation 6:15-17 – Earth’s rulers, generals, and mighty men hide from the wrath of the Lamb. Personal Takeaway God’s handling of the “terror of the mighty” reminds us that no injustice slips through His fingers. The One who sees every act will settle every account. Rather than fearing human power, we wisely live in reverent awe of the Lord whose justice prevails, trusting that He will right all wrongs and humble every proud heart. |
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