Ezekiel 20:38 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 20:38 mean?

Ezekiel 20:38 describes how God will separate and remove those among the Israelites who rebel and break His commands, preventing them from entering the land of Israel. This act will show everyone that God is truly the LORD, making His authority and intentions clear.

In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Ezekiel to the Israelites who are in exile. The situation is one of warning and hope: God promises to restore His people but also makes it clear that not everyone will be allowed to return—only those who are faithful. The verse emphasizes both God's justice in dealing with rebellion and His desire to be known as the true God among His people.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 20:38

• "out" (בָּרַר, barar): This word means to purge or sift out, highlighting the idea of a careful separation, not just a general removal.
• "rebels" (מֶרֶד, mered): This term refers to those who openly resist or defy authority, stressing that God is targeting willful opposition.
• "transgress" (פָּשַׁע, pasha): This word means to break away or act treacherously, pointing to deliberate acts against God's covenant.
• "sojourn" (מָגוּר, magur): This refers to a temporary dwelling or place of exile, underlining that the people are not in their true homeland.

Why Ezekiel 20:38 matters

• Ezekiel 20:38 clarifies that returning to the land of Israel is not automatic for all Israelites; only those who are faithful will be allowed, correcting any assumption that heritage alone is enough.
• The verse highlights God's role as both judge and redeemer, showing that His restoration comes with accountability.
• This verse connects to the larger message of Ezekiel 20, where God recounts Israel's history of rebellion and promises both judgment and future hope for those who truly follow Him.