How does Ezekiel 35:9 connect with God's promises in Genesis 12:3? Two Covenant Verses Side-by-Side Genesis 12:3: “I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse those who curse you; and in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.” 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.” How Ezekiel 35:9 Echoes Genesis 12:3 • Genesis 12:3 lays down a timeless covenant principle: blessing for friends of Abraham’s offspring, curse for enemies. • Edom (Mount Seir) descended from Esau, Abraham’s grandson, yet persistently opposed Israel (Numbers 20:14-21; Obadiah 1:10-14). • Ezekiel 35:9 records God applying the “curse” clause to Edom: lasting desolation for cursing Israel. • The phrase “Then you will know that I am the LORD” underlines that this judgment verifies His covenant faithfulness. Historical Markers of Edom’s Hostility • Refused Israel passage during the Exodus—Numbers 20:17-21. • Rejoiced over Jerusalem’s fall and helped Babylon—Psalm 137:7; Obadiah 1:11-14. • Launched raids on Judah—2 Chronicles 28:17; Amos 1:11-12. → These acts fulfilled the “curse those who curse you” condition, inviting Ezekiel 35:9’s sentence. What the Connection Teaches about God’s Character • He remembers and honors every word of His covenant (Joshua 21:45; Isaiah 55:11). • Blessing or curse is not arbitrary; it hinges on a people’s stance toward His chosen line. • Judgment may be delayed, yet it is certain (2 Peter 3:9-10). Timeless Implications for Believers • God’s promises are rock-solid; His blessing and discipline are both expressions of covenant love. • Aligning with God’s purposes brings blessing; opposing them invites correction. • Scripture’s prophetic words, even centuries apart, interlock in perfect consistency, encouraging unshakable trust in every promise God has made. |
    |