Ezekiel 38:19

In My zeal and fiery rage I proclaim that on that day there will be a great earthquake in the land of Israel.

Study Bible

In My zeal
The phrase "In My zeal" reflects God's passionate commitment to His purposes and His people. The Hebrew word for "zeal" is "qin'ah," which conveys a sense of ardor, jealousy, and fervent devotion. This zeal is not a capricious emotion but a righteous and holy passion that seeks to uphold God's honor and covenant. Throughout Scripture, God's zeal is often associated with His desire to protect and purify His people, as seen in Isaiah 9:7, where His zeal accomplishes the establishment of His kingdom. This divine zeal assures believers of God's unwavering commitment to His promises and His active involvement in the affairs of the world.

and fiery rage
The term "fiery rage" underscores the intensity of God's response to sin and rebellion. The Hebrew word "chemah" is used here, which can be translated as "wrath" or "fury." This is not an uncontrolled anger but a measured and just response to the defiance against God's sovereignty. The imagery of fire is often used in the Bible to symbolize purification and judgment, as seen in Malachi 3:2-3, where God is described as a refiner's fire. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment, while also pointing to the purifying work God intends to accomplish through His righteous anger.

I proclaim
The declaration "I proclaim" emphasizes the authority and certainty of God's word. The Hebrew verb "dabar" means to speak or declare, and it is often used in the context of divine revelation. When God speaks, His words are powerful and effective, as seen in Genesis 1, where His spoken word brings creation into existence. This proclamation is not merely a prediction but a divine decree that will surely come to pass. It reassures believers that God's plans are sovereign and unchangeable, providing a foundation of trust and hope in His promises.

that on that day
The phrase "that on that day" points to a specific time of fulfillment in God's prophetic timeline. In biblical prophecy, "the day" often refers to a future time of divine intervention and judgment, known as "the Day of the Lord." This eschatological concept is prevalent throughout the prophetic books, including Joel and Zephaniah, and signifies a time when God will decisively act to vindicate His name and establish His kingdom. For believers, this phrase serves as a reminder of the certainty of God's future plans and the importance of living in readiness for His coming.

there will be a great earthquake
The mention of "a great earthquake" signifies a dramatic and cataclysmic event that accompanies God's intervention. Earthquakes in Scripture often symbolize God's power and presence, as seen in Exodus 19:18, where Mount Sinai trembles at God's descent. The Hebrew word "ra'ash" conveys the idea of shaking or quaking, indicating a significant disruption of the natural order. This imagery serves to highlight the magnitude of God's actions and the transformative impact of His judgment. It calls believers to recognize the awe-inspiring power of God and the ultimate shaking of all things that will lead to the establishment of His unshakeable kingdom.

in the land of Israel
The phrase "in the land of Israel" locates the event within the geographical and covenantal context of God's chosen people. Israel holds a central place in God's redemptive plan, as the land promised to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:7). Throughout history, Israel has been the stage for God's dealings with humanity, and it remains significant in eschatological prophecies. This reference underscores the faithfulness of God to His covenant promises and His ongoing purpose for Israel in the unfolding of His divine plan. For believers, it serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the assurance that He will fulfill His promises to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The speaker in this verse, expressing His zeal and anger. The Hebrew word for zeal, (qin'ah), conveys a deep, passionate intensity.

2. Israel
The land where the prophesied great earthquake will occur. Israel is central to God's covenant and prophetic plans.

3. Ezekiel
The prophet through whom God delivers this message. Ezekiel's ministry was primarily to the exiles in Babylon, and his prophecies often include vivid imagery and apocalyptic themes.

4. Great Earthquake
A significant event prophesied to occur in the land of Israel, symbolizing God's powerful intervention and judgment.

5. Day of the Lord
An eschatological event often associated with God's judgment and deliverance, which this verse alludes to through the imagery of a great earthquake.

Teaching Points

God's Zeal and Righteous Anger
God's zeal is a reflection of His holiness and justice. His anger is not arbitrary but is directed against sin and rebellion.

The Significance of Earthquakes in Scripture
Earthquakes often symbolize God's direct intervention in human history, serving as a wake-up call for repentance and reflection on His sovereignty.

The Day of the Lord
This concept reminds believers of the ultimate accountability before God and the hope of His righteous reign. It encourages readiness and faithfulness.

God's Covenant with Israel
The focus on Israel underscores God's unchanging promises and His plan for redemption through His chosen people.

Living in Light of Prophecy
Understanding prophetic scriptures should lead to a life of holiness, urgency in sharing the Gospel, and trust in God's ultimate plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's zeal and anger in Ezekiel 38:19 affect your view of His character and justice?

2. In what ways can the imagery of a great earthquake serve as a metaphor for God's intervention in your personal life?

3. How does the concept of the Day of the Lord in Ezekiel 38:19 relate to your understanding of end times prophecy in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn from God's covenant with Israel that apply to the Church today?

5. How can you live in readiness for God's intervention, as depicted in Ezekiel 38:19, in your daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 16:18
This verse describes a great earthquake during the end times, drawing a parallel to the earthquake in Ezekiel 38:19, emphasizing God's judgment.

Zechariah 14:4-5
These verses also speak of an earthquake in Israel, connecting to the theme of divine intervention and the Day of the Lord.

Isaiah 13:13
This passage describes the shaking of the heavens and the earth, similar to the imagery in Ezekiel, highlighting God's power and wrath.