Ezekiel 37:20
And the stickes whereon thou writest, shalbe in thine hand before their eyes. Ezekiel 37:20 (KJV)
Historical Context: The book of Ezekiel was written during the Babylonian exile, when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon. The prophet Ezekiel was called by God to deliver messages of judgment, restoration, and hope to the exiled Israelites.
The Vision of the Dry Bones: In Ezekiel 37, the prophet receives a vision commonly known as the vision of the dry bones. God brings Ezekiel to a valley full of dry bones, representing the condition of the people of Israel—spiritually dead and hopeless.
God’s Promise of Restoration: Through this vision God reveals His plan to restore the nation of Israel. He instructs Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, declaring that He will breathe life into them and bring them back to their land. The vision symbolizes the spiritual restoration and revival of the people of Israel.
Symbolism of the Sticks: In verse 15 God instructs Ezekiel to take two sticks and write on them the names of Judah and the children of Israel, representing the divided kingdom. In verse 16 He tells Ezekiel to join the sticks together as one in his hand. This symbolic action represents the reunification of the divided kingdom and the restoration of the whole nation.
Visible Sign before Their Eyes: In verse 20 (and continued in verse 21) God says He will join the sticks into a single staff that will be held in Ezekiel’s hand before the eyes of the people. This serves as a tangible, visual demonstration of God’s promise to reunify Israel and fulfill His word.
Application and Spiritual Significance: The passage carries both historical and spiritual significance. Historically it foreshadows the return of the Israelites from exile and the rebuilding of the temple. Spiritually it points to God’s power to bring life out of death, to restore His people, and to keep His promises.
Lessons for Christians Today: While the primary focus is the restoration of Israel, believers can draw important lessons. The passage reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His ability to bring revival even in the midst of despair. It encourages trust in God’s promises and reliance on His power to transform dead situations into vibrant, thriving ones.
In conclusion, Ezekiel 37:20 in the King James Version reveals God’s promise of restoration and reunification of the nation of Israel. The sticks held before the people’s eyes symbolize the reunification, serving as a visible sign of God’s faithfulness and power to fulfill His promises.
