Ezekiel: For His Gloryഉദാഹരണം

The next oracle against Egypt (vv. 1–19) is not dated, but was probably proclaimed around the time of the siege of Jerusalem (cf. vv. 20–26). At this time there was a hope that Egypt could rescue Israel from the Babylonian army. This chapter makes it clear that the hope would be in vain. 

This is because the ‘day of the Lord’ (v. 3) is upon Egypt. This momentous day finds echoes with other parts of the Old Testament (especially the Prophets), pointing to a time of God’s salvation and judgment. That second element is prominent here as judgment will come upon:  

1. Egypt, as it will suffer the sword, along with other nations (vv. 2–5).  
2. Egypt’s allies. In their pride, they will be brought low (vv. 6–9).  
3. Egypt’s army, who will suffer devastation at the hand of Nebuchadnezzar (vv. 10–12).  
4. Egypt’s idols, strongholds, and cities, which will be destroyed (vv. 13–18). 

Again the outcome of these judgments will be that people will recognize who God really is (v. 19). 

In the next section, Ezekiel drives home the point of Israel’s vain hope in Egypt as a rescuer (vv. 20–26). This oracle is dated near the time when Hophra, the King of Egypt, marched against Babylon, leading to a temporary reprieve for Jerusalem (Jer. 37:7–8). God says He will break not just the strong arm of Pharaoh used to wield the sword in battle, but also his weak arm. Egypt will be completely debilitated in battle. By contrast, God will strengthen the arm of Babylon. The outcome is a foregone conclusion: Egypt will be mortally wounded, its inhabitants dispersed among the nations – the same judgment Israel will face. It is clear that Babylon is the means that God will bring judgment, not just on Israel but also on Egypt. Since there is no hope for Egypt, there is no hope for Jerusalem against Babylon. 

Reflection

The absolute sovereignty of God is reasserted once again. No one can stand against Him; He pulls the strings of all history. We look forward to another ‘day of the Lord’ when Jesus returns, which will also be marked by judgment and salvation (e.g. 2 Pet. 3:10).