Ezekiel 20:5

And say vnto them, Thus saith the Lord God, In the day when I chose Israel, and lifted vp mine hand vnto the seed of the house of Iacob, and made my selfe knowen vnto them in the land of Egypt, when I lifted vp mine hand vnto them, saying, I am the Lord your God, Ezekiel 20:5 (KJV)

The book of Ezekiel is set during the Babylonian exile, a period when the Israelites were taken captive and removed from their homeland. Ezekiel, a prophet, received visions and messages from God, which he shared with the exiled Israelites.

In this verse, God addresses the Israelites and reminds them of their special relationship. He refers to the time when He chose Israel, lifting up His hand as a symbol of an oath or a solemn promise, and when He brought them out of Egypt and made Himself known to them.

The phrase “made myself known unto them in the land of Egypt” refers to the events of the Exodus, when God revealed Himself to the Israelites through His miraculous acts, such as the ten plagues and the parting of the Red Sea.

The verse emphasizes that God proclaimed His identity to the Israelites in Egypt. By declaring, “I am the LORD your God,” God established His authority over them, signifying His role as their divine ruler and protector. This declaration affirms the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people.

During the exile, the Israelites faced a crisis of faith. They wondered if God had abandoned them and whether their covenant with Him still stood. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness throughout their history, urging them to remember their unique calling and relationship with God and to trust in His promises.

Although the verse specifically addresses the Israelites, it also carries broader theological implications. It underscores God’s sovereignty in choosing His people and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. Believers today may find encouragement in the assurance that God remains committed to His people and will continue to reveal Himself to those who seek Him.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 20:5 reminds the Israelites of God’s choice of Israel, His revelation in Egypt, and His identity as the LORD their God. It calls attention to the covenant relationship and offers hope in God’s faithfulness. For believers today, it highlights God’s sovereignty and commitment to His people.