Ezekiel 29:13

For this is what the Lord GOD says: At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians from the nations to which they were scattered.

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord GOD says:
This phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the message. In the prophetic books, this formula often introduces a direct revelation from God, underscoring the seriousness and certainty of the prophecy. It reflects the role of prophets as God's spokespersons, delivering messages that are not their own but from the Lord.

At the end of forty years:
The number forty is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing a period of testing, trial, or judgment. Examples include the forty years the Israelites spent in the wilderness (Numbers 14:33-34) and the forty days Jesus fasted in the desert (Matthew 4:2). Here, it indicates a defined period of judgment for Egypt, suggesting a complete cycle of divine discipline.

I will gather the Egyptians from the nations:
This phrase indicates a future restoration for Egypt after a period of dispersion. The gathering of a scattered people is a common theme in prophetic literature, often associated with God's mercy and faithfulness. It parallels the promises made to Israel regarding their own restoration (Jeremiah 29:14). This gathering signifies a reversal of judgment and a return to a semblance of former stability.

to which they were scattered:
The scattering of the Egyptians implies a significant upheaval, likely due to conquest or exile. Historically, Egypt faced invasions and periods of foreign domination, such as by the Assyrians and later the Babylonians. This scattering reflects the broader biblical theme of dispersion as a consequence of divine judgment, similar to the exile experienced by Israel and Judah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages, including prophecies against foreign nations.

2. Egypt
A significant nation in biblical history, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people. In this context, Egypt is under judgment but also promised restoration.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign deity of Israel, who pronounces judgment and restoration. His authority and plans are central to the prophecy.

4. Forty Years
A period often associated with testing, judgment, and renewal in the Bible. It signifies a complete cycle of divine discipline and restoration.

5. Nations
Refers to the various countries where the Egyptians were scattered. This scattering is part of God's judgment, but He promises to regather them.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God controls the destinies of all nations, not just Israel. His plans encompass judgment and restoration according to His purposes.

The Purpose of Divine Judgment
Judgment serves as a means of correction and eventual restoration. It is not merely punitive but aims to bring about repentance and renewal.

Hope in Restoration
Even in judgment, God provides hope. The promise to regather Egypt after forty years shows His mercy and the possibility of redemption.

The Significance of Time in God's Plan
The forty-year period reflects God's perfect timing. Believers can trust that God's timing, though sometimes lengthy, is purposeful and complete.

God's Faithfulness to His Word
God's promises, whether of judgment or restoration, are sure. Believers can rely on His faithfulness to fulfill His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy of Egypt's restoration after forty years reflect God's character and His dealings with nations?

2. In what ways can the forty-year period of judgment and restoration be seen in other biblical accounts, and what lessons can we draw from them?

3. How does the promise of restoration for Egypt encourage us in our personal experiences of discipline and renewal?

4. What are some modern parallels to the scattering and regathering of nations, and how can we see God's hand in these events?

5. How can we apply the concept of God's sovereignty over nations to our understanding of current global events and our role as Christians in them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 46
This chapter also contains prophecies against Egypt, highlighting God's judgment and eventual restoration, similar to Ezekiel's message.

Isaiah 19
Describes a future where Egypt will turn to the Lord, showing a broader theme of redemption for nations beyond Israel.

Deuteronomy 30:3
Speaks of God gathering His people from exile, paralleling the theme of restoration found in Ezekiel 29:13.