Ezekiel 12:15

And they will know that I am the LORD, when I disperse them among the nations and scatter them throughout the countries.

Study Bible

And they will know that I am the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the recurring theme in Ezekiel that God's actions are meant to reveal His identity and sovereignty. The knowledge of the LORD is a central theme in the prophetic literature, often associated with judgment and restoration. In the context of Ezekiel, this knowledge comes through the fulfillment of prophecy and the demonstration of God's power and holiness. The phrase echoes the covenantal language found in Exodus 6:7, where God promises that the Israelites will know Him through His deliverance.

when I disperse them among the nations
The dispersion, or exile, of the Israelites is a significant event in biblical history, marking a period of judgment for their disobedience and idolatry. This scattering among the nations fulfills earlier warnings given by prophets like Moses in Deuteronomy 28:64. The dispersion serves as both punishment and a means for the Israelites to witness to the nations, as seen in the broader narrative of the Old Testament. Historically, the Babylonian exile is the immediate context, where many Israelites were taken from their homeland.

and scatter them throughout the countries
This scattering is not just a physical relocation but also a spiritual and cultural upheaval. It reflects the consequences of breaking the covenant with God, as the Israelites are removed from the land promised to their ancestors. The scattering throughout various countries highlights the extent of God's judgment and the loss of national identity. However, it also sets the stage for eventual restoration and the gathering of the remnant, as prophesied in passages like Isaiah 11:12. The scattering can be seen as a type of Christ's mission to gather all nations to Himself, as He speaks of gathering His people from the four corners of the earth in Matthew 24:31.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are being warned of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Nations
Refers to the various countries among which the Israelites will be scattered.

5. The LORD (YHWH)
The covenant God of Israel, emphasizing His sovereignty and justice.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God's actions in dispersing the Israelites demonstrate His control over nations and His commitment to justice. Believers are reminded of the importance of living in obedience to God's commands.

Recognition of God
The ultimate purpose of God's judgment is that people will know He is the LORD. This underscores the importance of acknowledging God's authority in our lives.

Consequences of Disobedience
The scattering of the Israelites serves as a warning about the serious consequences of turning away from God. It encourages believers to remain faithful and obedient.

Hope in Exile
Even in judgment, there is hope for restoration. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God's discipline is meant to bring us back to Him.

Community and Accountability
The dispersion highlights the collective responsibility of the community to uphold God's laws. It encourages believers to support one another in faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of the Babylonian exile help us understand the significance of Ezekiel 12:15?

2. In what ways does the theme of dispersion in Ezekiel 12:15 connect to the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28?

3. How can we apply the lesson of recognizing God's sovereignty in our daily lives, especially in times of personal or communal crisis?

4. What are some modern-day "exiles" or challenges that might serve as reminders of the consequences of disobedience, and how can we respond to them?

5. How can the church today act as a community of accountability to prevent spiritual "dispersion" among its members?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including dispersion among nations, which connects to the consequences described in Ezekiel 12:15.

Jeremiah 29
Jeremiah's letter to the exiles in Babylon provides context and hope, promising eventual restoration, which complements Ezekiel's message of judgment and future recognition of God.

Leviticus 26
Similar to Deuteronomy, this chapter discusses the consequences of Israel's disobedience, including being scattered among the nations.

Psalm 106
This psalm recounts Israel's history of rebellion and God's responses, including dispersion, highlighting the recurring theme of disobedience and divine judgment.