Chapter Summary

Prophecy against Gog, continued. Vision of restored and converted Israel.

Discussion Questions for Ezekiel, Chapter 39

1. In verse 1 it says the prophecy is coming from the “Sovereign Lord.” (NIV) Of all the attributes that God could have used, He chose to speak and reveal Himself as sovereign, in control of all things. How does it help to know that God is sovereign when one is facing a tough trial? (remember, he is speaking to Israelites who have been exiled). How might you encourage someone who is going through a tough time by reminding them of God’s sovereignty?
2. In the chapter, we see that God totally destroys Gog. Although scholars debate exactly who Gog refers to, we can be confident that God will put an end to all enemies such as Gog or whoever else opposes him. Do you ever find yourself losing confidence that God will prevail over all evil powers? Share some times that you have or do struggle with having confidence in God.
3. Looking at verse 6, what is the result that God wants to achieve by pouring out his wrath on Gog? How does God’s wrath lead to people coming to know the Lord? Can you share an example of when feeling guilty led you to trust God?
4. In verses 9 and 10 we see that what was once a threat to Israel (the weapons of their enemies) become a blessing as they were able to use the weapons for fuel. Share a time in your life that God used something “evil” to bless you?
5. From verse 23, what was the reason that the Israelites were captured and taken away into exile? Was this punishment more than what they deserved or less? Why?
6. In verse 24 God says that he punished the Israelites for being unclean. Why must God always punish uncleanness? How can you escape God’s punishment for your sins?
7. From verse 26, what are some words that describe what happens to those that are restored by God? Share with the group about how God has taken away your shame.
8. Verse 29 there is a connection between God not hiding his face from his people and God pouring out his Spirit. In what ways do you feel the Spirit connecting you to God?
9. Count how many times you see the phrase “declares the Sovereign Lord” (NIV) or “I have spoken” (NIV) or “This is what the Sovereign Lord says.” (NIV). Other versions may say something like “declares the Lord God” or “thus says the Lord God.” In which verses did you find these phrases or other ones similar to them? Does God want to leave any room for doubt about his word becoming true? How many times in the Bible does God speak and then it does not come to be? How are you doing at trusting God’s promises?
10. In this chapter it says that Israel will “know that I am the Lord their God” (NIV v. 22, 28, see also v. 7). What does it mean that they will know he is God? Would you say that you know the Lord God? How can you be sure?

Key Words/Phrase

Gog, v. 1.

Characters

God, Holy Spirit, Ezekiel, Gog.

Strong Verse(s)

21, 23, 24.