What lessons can we learn about God's sovereignty from Ezekiel 25:11? The Text at a Glance “So I will execute judgments upon Moab, and they will know that I am the LORD.” (Ezekiel 25:11) Historical Backdrop • Moab, Israel’s eastern neighbor, often opposed God’s people (Numbers 22–24; Judges 3:12–30). • Ezekiel delivers this oracle during Judah’s exile, announcing God’s verdict on the surrounding nations that gloated over Jerusalem’s fall. • By naming Moab specifically, the Lord reveals that no nation—however distant or defiant—operates outside His jurisdiction. Key Observations from the Verse • “I will execute” – God Himself initiates the judgment; no secondary cause obscures His direct hand. • “Judgments” – plural, underscoring thoroughness and completeness. • “They will know that I am the LORD” – the purpose extends beyond punishment; it is revelatory, unveiling His character to Moab and to every observer. Lessons on God’s Sovereignty • God’s rule is universal. The same sovereign who disciplines Judah also governs pagan Moab (Psalm 24:1). • Divine sovereignty includes the right to judge. Justice is not arbitrary; it flows from His holy nature (Deuteronomy 32:4). • Judgment serves a revelatory aim. Even acts of wrath are evangelistic in intent, forcing nations to acknowledge His lordship (Isaiah 45:22–23). • Human rebellion cannot thwart God’s plans. Moab’s historic contempt (Jeremiah 48:26–27) meets divine response right on schedule. • Sovereignty pairs justice with mercy. While Moab receives judgment, Israel’s restoration is simultaneously promised (Ezekiel 34:11–16), displaying a balanced rule. Echoes Across Scripture • Pharaoh learned the same lesson: “that My name may be proclaimed in all the earth” (Exodus 9:16). • Nebuchadnezzar echoed it after humiliation: “His dominion is an everlasting dominion” (Daniel 4:34–35). • The cross upholds it—human plots fulfilled God’s predetermined plan (Acts 2:23). • The final judgment will universalize it: “Every knee shall bow” (Philippians 2:10–11). Living in Light of Ezekiel 25:11 • Rest in God’s undisputed authority; no event in geopolitics or personal life escapes His control (Romans 8:28). • Trust His timing; justice delayed is not justice denied (2 Peter 3:9). • Let His sovereignty fuel evangelism—He intends all peoples to “know that I am the LORD.” • Respond with humble obedience; the sovereign Judge is also the covenant-keeping Redeemer who invites us to walk in faithful allegiance. |
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