Ezekiel 20:28 – “When I brought them into the land I had sworn to give them, and they saw any high hill or any leafy tree, there they offered their sacrifices, made offerings that aroused my anger, presented their fragrant incense, and poured out their drink offerings.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse recounts the Israelites’ unfaithfulness even after God fulfilled His promise to bring them into the Promised Land. Instead of worshiping God alone, they adopted pagan practices and used the high places and leafy trees as locations for idol worship. These places, which should have been reminders of God’s provision, became sites of rebellion and idolatry. The mention of offerings, incense, and drink offerings reflects their active participation in pagan rituals, which deeply dishonored God and aroused His anger.
Historical Context
The Promised Land was a gift from God, a place of abundance and blessing sworn to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:7). However, instead of worshiping God in gratitude, the Israelites repeatedly turned to the idolatrous practices of the Canaanites, the original inhabitants of the land. High places were common in pagan worship, often used to honor false gods. Despite God’s explicit commands to destroy such places (Deuteronomy 12:2-3), the Israelites frequently adopted these practices, leading to cycles of judgment and repentance throughout their history.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the tragedy of misplaced worship. God had given the Israelites every reason to be faithful to Him, yet they turned their hearts to idols. It serves as a reminder that even in the midst of God’s blessings, humans are prone to forget Him and pursue false sources of security and satisfaction. It also underscores God’s holiness and His righteous anger when His people dishonor His name through idolatry.
Literary Analysis
The imagery in this verse is vivid, emphasizing the contrast between God’s faithfulness and Israel’s rebellion. The “high hill” and “leafy tree” symbolize places of false worship, while the detailed mention of offerings and incense underscores the intentionality of their idolatry. The repetition of actions—offering sacrifices, making offerings, and presenting incense—reinforces the depth of their unfaithfulness.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 12:2-4: God’s command to destroy pagan high places and worship Him alone.
- Judges 2:11-13: A description of Israel’s repeated idolatry after entering the Promised Land.
- 1 Kings 14:23: A specific mention of high places and sacred trees as sites of idol worship in Israel.
- Romans 1:21-25: Paul’s explanation of humanity’s tendency to exchange the worship of the Creator for created things.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, this verse serves as a warning about the dangers of idolatry and misplaced worship. While modern idols may not be physical statues or high places, they can take the form of anything that draws our hearts away from God—money, relationships, success, or even personal comfort. This verse challenges believers to examine their priorities and ensure that their worship is directed solely toward God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s anger in this verse is rooted in His love for His people. He knows that idolatry leads to destruction and separation from Him, the source of life. His anger is not arbitrary but a reflection of His desire for His people to experience the fullness of His blessings and relationship. God’s provision of the Promised Land was an act of love, and their rebellion grieved Him because it disrupted the covenant relationship He had established with them.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus fulfills the covenant relationship that Israel repeatedly broke. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for humanity to be reconciled to God and worship Him in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). While Israel’s idolatry highlighted their need for a Savior, Jesus provides the perfect model of faithful obedience and undivided worship of the Father. He also calls His followers to abandon all idols and live fully devoted to God (Luke 9:23).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there any “high places” or modern idols in your life that compete for your devotion to God?
- How can you intentionally focus your worship on God alone, especially in times of blessing?
- What does this verse teach you about the consequences of forgetting God’s faithfulness and pursuing idols?
- How does Jesus’ example of faithful worship encourage you to reject idolatry and follow Him wholeheartedly?
- In what ways can you guard your heart against misplaced priorities and remain faithful in your relationship with God?