Introduction: Ezekiel 28 brings a message of the judgment of the Prince of Tyre and the King of Tyre. The chapter is rich with analytical language and figures of speech, and it has been the subject of much debate and different interpretations. In this expository outline, we will take a look at each verse in the chapter to gain a deeper understanding of its message and how it relates to our lives today. We will also look at some other cross references from other parts of the Bible that shed light on the content of Ezekiel 28.
I. Prince of Tyre claims divinity (Ezekiel 28:1-2)
The chapter begins with the Lord addressing the Prince of Tyre, who is described as a man who has become arrogant and has claimed to be a god. The Lord rebukes him for his pride and warns of the consequences that will follow. Cross reference verses: Isaiah 14:13-14 speaks of the pride of Lucifer, who also claimed to be like God, and Proverbs 16:18 warns that pride goes before destruction.
II. The Lord condemns Tyre leaders pride (Ezekiel 28:3-5)
The Lord continues to address the Prince of Tyre, praising his wisdom and wealth but condemning his pride and self-centeredness. The Prince is compared to Daniel, who was known for his wisdom, but the Lord says that the Prince’s heart has become proud because of his riches. Cross reference verses: 1 Timothy 6:17 warns against trusting in wealth, and James 4:6 reminds us that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
III. Tyre leader will die violent death (Ezekiel 28:6-10)
The Lord declares that he will bring judgment upon the Prince of Tyre, who will be brought down from his lofty position and will die a violent death. The Lord says that the Prince will be a laughingstock to those around him, and his death will be a warning to others. Cross reference verses: Psalm 52:5-7 speaks of the judgment that comes upon the proud and wealthy, and Matthew 23:12 warns that those who exalt themselves will be humbled.
IV. Judgment on King of Tyre (Ezekiel 28:11-19)
The focus shifts to the King of Tyre, who is described as a model of perfection, full of wisdom and beauty. However, the Lord says that the King has become corrupt and has defiled his sanctuaries. The Lord declares that he will cast the King out of his position and bring him to a wretched end. Cross reference verses: Isaiah 14:12-15 describes the fall of Lucifer, who was once a beautiful angel but was cast out of heaven because of his pride, and Revelation 18:2-3 speaks of the fall of Babylon, which was also full of beauty and wealth but was ultimately destroyed.
V. Hope for Israel (Ezekiel 28:20-26)
The last verses of the chapter end with a message of hope for the people of Israel, who have suffered at the hands of the Prince and King of Tyre. The Lord promises to restore them to their land and to bring judgment upon their enemies. Cross reference verses: Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that the Lord has plans for our welfare and not for harm, and Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things work together for good for those who love God.
Conclusion: Ezekiel 28 is a reminder to believers, even in our world today, of the dangers of pride and self-centeredness. The Lord’s judgment upon the Prince and King of Tyre can be seen as a warning to us all to remain humble and to trust in the Lord rather than in our own understand, wisdom or wealth. The chapter also offers a message of hope, as the Lord promises to restore his people and to bring true justice to the world one day. As we read the words of Ezekiel 28, let us take to heart the lessons it teaches us and strive to live lives that bring honor and glory to the name of the Lord.
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