Ezekiel 31-32

We continue reading today the final three of seven messages concerning Egypt.  Clearly the picture becomes more long term with the theme of death and hell.  Some wonder at the Old Testament concept of life after death for the wicked.  These chapters indicate a situation where there is consciousness and continued existence.  Those who were in the land of the living are now in the Pit, dead (Ezek. 32:25).  Yet they are conscious.  It fits well with Jesus description of Hades in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man where there is a gulf dividing the place of torment and Abraham’s bosom (Luke 16:19-35).

·        31:1-18: As most are aware now, so it was known then, that Egypt had a great and glorious history, thriving in knowledge and prosperity, ingenuity and creativity, and so forth.  She had come to “trust her beauty” so to speak and think she would always bounce back from adversity.  God here uses the recent illustration of Assyria to tell Pharaoh and his multitude that they are doomed to the Pit of hell.

·        32:1-16: Egypt also considered herself to be a military power and in a greatly protected position because of the Nile on her eastern border.  But God says He will cast His net over her, a reference to the Babylonians, which He in fact did.  Egypt would be desolate.

·        33:17-32:  The seventh and final message to Pharaoh and Egypt is quite a graphic history lesson.  Egypt is reminded of numerous powers and success stories before her.  The question is asked, “Who do you surpass in beauty” (v19)?  Egypt’s magnificent cities and civilization in general was about to come crashing down and join the Assyrians, Elam and many others in the Pit.  Pharaoh is so proud that even in hell he will be comforted in seeing all these others.  On the other hand note that the messenger himself (Ezekiel) is to preach with tears (v18).  The righteous get no pleasure from the thought that the wicked are in hell; nor does God revel in the death of the wicked. 

This is no lie.  These messages are anchored in history, in real times and real places.  We must be warned!  And not simply for ourselves.  The issue for Pharaoh and Egypt is the same today.  We must reckon with the God Who created us and Who will judge us by His criteria.  Rightfully He must see that His creation is thankful to Him and glorifies Him.  Common sense tells us that we have all failed to do this.  So then the issue is, how can we glorify a God we have offended?  The answer is that the same God so loves His creation that He has provided a means of salvation.  Through His Son the Savior has come, paid the price for our arrogance and idolatry, and defeated death by His resurrection.  It is too late to earn God’s favor.  We can only receive His gracious salvation by faith in His Savior, Jesus Christ.  For by grace are you saved, through faith, and that not of ourselves; not of works lest any man should boast.  (Eph. 2:8-9)