What does "they will know that I am the LORD" reveal about God's character?

◄ What does this reveal about God's nature? ►

Setting the Scene

• The phrase “they will know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 6:7 and many parallels) appears dozens of times, especially in Exodus and Ezekiel.

• Each occasion follows a decisive act of God—plagues, judgment, rescue, restoration.

• God acts so that observers move from mere information about Him to personal recognition of His identity.

The Meaning of “Know”

• Hebrew “yada” implies experiential, relational knowledge, not just facts.

• God’s goal is that people encounter Him as He truly is, responding in reverence and trust.

Revealed Attributes

1. Sovereignty

– “I will make Myself known among you... and all the nations will know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 38:23).

– His authority is universal; no rival can thwart His purposes.

2. Holiness

– “I will prove the holiness of My great name... Then the nations will know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 36:23).

– His separateness and moral perfection demand acknowledgment.

3. Justice

– “The slain will fall among you, and you will know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 6:7).

– When sin is judged, God’s fairness and zeal for righteousness become unmistakable.

4. Mercy and Faithfulness

– “You will be My people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 11:20).

– Covenant mercy stands behind every rescue; He keeps promises despite human failure.

5. Power to Save

– After the Red Sea: “Israel saw the great power that the LORD used... so the people feared the LORD” (Exodus 14:31).

– Deliverance showcases His unmatched might on behalf of His own.

6. Desire for Relationship

– “I will take you as My own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God” (Exodus 6:7).

– God’s self-disclosure invites fellowship, not mere observation.

God’s Purpose in His Actions

• Whether in judgment or salvation, the objective is identical: people must recognize Him.

• This revelation guards against idolatry, calls nations to repentance, and comforts believers with assurance that history is under His hand.

Living in the Light of His Self-Revelation

• Trust His sovereignty when circumstances shake—He is still the LORD.

• Pursue holiness, mirroring the God who makes Himself known as holy.

• Rest in covenant faithfulness; the One who declares Himself LORD keeps every promise.

• Share His deeds, so others, too, “will know that He is the LORD.”