Ezekiel 36:19

“And I scattered them among the heathen, and they were dispersed through the countries: according to their way and according to their doings I judged them.”

Ezekiel 36:19 (KJV) states: The book of Ezekiel was written during the time of the Babylonian exile. The people of Israel had been conquered by the Babylonians, and a significant portion of the population was taken captive and scattered among various nations. The prophet Ezekiel was among the exiles, and his prophecies were directed to the people of Israel, both those in exile and those who remained in the land.

In Ezekiel 36:19, God is recounting the history of Israel’s disobedience and the resulting judgment. The phrase “And I scattered them among the heathen” refers to the exile of the Israelites to foreign lands. As a consequence of their persistent idolatry and rebellion against God, He allowed them to be dispersed among the nations as a form of punishment.

Consequences of Their Actions: The verse continues, saying, “and they were dispersed through the countries: according to their way and according to their doings I judged them.” This highlights the principle of divine judgment based on their actions. The dispersion of the Israelites was a direct result of their sinful behaviour, and God’s judgment was a response to their unfaithfulness and disobedience.

Accountability for One’s Actions: The phrase “according to their way and according to their doings” emphasizes the accountability each individual bears for their choices and actions. The people of Israel had turned away from God, engaged in idolatry, and disregarded His commandments. Consequently, they experienced the consequences of their own behaviour.