Ezekiel 11:20

Authorized King James Version

That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְמַ֙עַן֙

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

בְּחֻקֹּתַ֣י

H2708

in my statutes

a statute

יֵלֵ֔כוּ

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מִשְׁפָּטַ֥י

H4941

mine ordinances

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

יִשְׁמְר֖וּ

H8104

and keep

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

וְעָשׂ֣וּ

H6213

and do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֹתָ֑ם

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

וְהָיוּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#10

לִ֣י

#11

לְעָ֔ם

H5971

them and they shall be my people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#12

וַאֲנִ֕י

H589

#13

אֶהְיֶ֥ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#14

לָהֶ֖ם

#15

לֵאלֹהִֽים׃

H430

and I will be their God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ezekiel.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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