What lessons can we learn from God's judgment on Ammon in Ezekiel 25:4? Text in Focus “Therefore, behold, I will deliver you into the hands of the people of the East as a possession. They will set up their encampments and pitch their tents among you; they will eat your fruit and drink your milk.” (Ezekiel 25:4) Setting the Scene • Ammon descended from Lot (Genesis 19:38) and occupied land east of the Jordan. • Repeatedly hostile to Israel (Judges 11:12–33; 1 Samuel 11:1–2). • When Judah fell to Babylon, Ammon rejoiced and plotted to seize territory (Ezekiel 25:3; Jeremiah 40:14). • God’s decree: nomadic tribes from the East would overrun Ammon, living off the very produce Ammon prized. Why Judgment Fell • Malicious delight in Israel’s calamity—“Because you said, ‘Aha!’” (Ezekiel 25:3). • Opposition to God’s covenant people (Zechariah 2:8). • Prideful confidence in their own security and resources (Jeremiah 49:4–6). Lessons for Today • Gloating Invites Judgment – Proverbs 24:17–18 warns against rejoicing when an enemy falls. – God holds individuals and nations accountable for schadenfreude. • The Lord Defends His People – Genesis 12:3; Zechariah 2:8: harming God’s people brings divine response. – Comfort for believers—God sees and will act in His time (Romans 12:19). • No Nation Is Immune – Acts 17:26–31: God determines boundaries and judges all peoples. – National pride or military might cannot shield from divine justice. • Stewardship, Not Exploitation – Ammon’s land, fruit, and milk were taken by others (Ezekiel 25:4); all resources ultimately belong to God (Psalm 24:1). – Use what He gives for His glory, not for selfish gain or aggression. • Sin Has Tangible Consequences – Ammon’s fields, orchards, and herds fed invaders: sin affects real lives, not just abstract morals (Galatians 6:7). • God’s Word Stands Literally Fulfilled – History confirms nomadic tribes (“people of the East”) occupied Ammon’s territory. – Fulfilled prophecy assures us every remaining promise—including Christ’s return—will come to pass (Matthew 24:35). Living It Out • Guard the heart from secretly celebrating another’s hardship. • Intercede for, rather than malign, those who stumble (1 Timothy 2:1). • Hold resources lightly, remembering they are entrusted by God. • Stand in confidence that the God who judged Ammon also protects and vindicates His people today. |
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