What does Ezekiel 35:9 teach about the consequences of opposing God's people? Setting the Scene • Ezekiel 35 addresses Mount Seir, the territory of Edom—Israel’s long-standing rival. • Edom rejoiced over Judah’s exile and sought to seize their land (Ezekiel 35:10, 15). • God speaks through Ezekiel to declare what happens when a nation sets itself against His covenant people. Reading Ezekiel 35:9 “I will make you a perpetual desolation, and your cities will not be inhabited. Then you will know that I am the LORD.” Key Consequences Highlighted • Perpetual desolation – “Perpetual” points to an enduring, ongoing ruin, not a brief setback. – The hostility of Edom brings an equally lasting judgment. • Empty cities – Economic life, culture, and security collapse when God withdraws His blessing. • Forced recognition of the LORD – Even adversaries who reject God’s authority will ultimately acknowledge Him (cf. Philippians 2:10-11). – Judgment functions as a public demonstration of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises. The Larger Biblical Pattern • Genesis 12:3: “I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you.” • Psalm 105:14-15: God “rebuked kings” for Israel’s sake, saying, “Do not touch My anointed ones.” • Zechariah 2:8-9: “He who touches you touches the apple of His eye… I will surely raise My hand against them.” • Obadiah 15-18: Edom’s betrayal of Judah results in total devastation; “As you have done, it will be done to you.” • Isaiah 54:17: “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” The protection promise stands because God Himself defends His people. What This Reveals About God’s Character • Faithful Defender—He remembers every injury done to His covenant family. • Righteous Judge—Opposition to His people is treated as opposition to Him. • Sovereign Lord—His judgments serve a missionary purpose: “Then you will know that I am the LORD.” Lessons for Today • Align with God’s heart toward Israel and the church; hostility invites divine resistance. • Trust God’s timing; He may appear silent, yet He will set things right in His way and schedule. • Stand confident in spiritual battles; God’s defense is not theoretical but historically verified. • Walk humbly; the same God who disciplines enemies will also correct His own people when necessary (Hebrews 12:6). |
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