Ezekiel 20:5 – “and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: On the day I chose Israel, I swore with uplifted hand to the descendants of Jacob and revealed myself to them in Egypt. With uplifted hand I said to them, ‘I am the Lord your God.’”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, God begins recounting Israel’s history, starting with His choice of them as His people. He reminds them of His covenant promise to the descendants of Jacob, made when He revealed Himself to them during their slavery in Egypt. The imagery of God swearing with “uplifted hand” reflects His solemn and unbreakable commitment to Israel. By declaring, “I am the Lord your God,” He emphasizes His unique relationship with them. This verse sets the foundation for the coming indictment, as it contrasts God’s faithfulness with Israel’s rebellion.

Historical Context

The reference to Egypt takes us back to the time of the Exodus, when God delivered Israel from slavery and made them His covenant people. This moment was foundational to Israel’s identity, as they were chosen by God not because of their merit but because of His grace and purpose (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). The covenant relationship began with God revealing Himself to them and declaring His sovereignty. This historical backdrop highlights the depth of Israel’s sin, as they repeatedly turned away from the God who rescued and established them.

Theological Implications

This verse underscores God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. He chose Israel out of His love and for His purposes, demonstrating His grace in establishing a relationship with them. It also reveals the nature of God’s covenant, which is both personal and binding. By swearing with “uplifted hand,” God assures His people that His promises are certain and trustworthy. However, the verse also implies accountability—Israel’s privileged position as God’s chosen people carries the responsibility of faithfulness to Him.

Literary Analysis

The phrase “On the day I chose Israel” is a poetic way of recalling a pivotal moment in history, reminding the audience of God’s initiative and grace. The repetition of “uplifted hand” emphasizes the solemnity of God’s covenant. Additionally, the declaration “I am the Lord your God” is a foundational statement in Israel’s relationship with God, appearing repeatedly in Scripture to affirm His authority and unique relationship with His people.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 6:7: “I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God.” This recalls God’s promise to the Israelites in Egypt.
• Deuteronomy 7:6-8: A reminder that Israel was chosen by God because of His love and faithfulness, not their own righteousness.
• Psalm 105:8-10: Celebrating God’s faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
• 1 Peter 2:9: Christians are reminded that they, too, are a chosen people, called to declare God’s praises.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s believer, this verse is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and grace. Just as God chose Israel and revealed Himself to them, He has also called Christians into a covenant relationship through Jesus Christ. This passage encourages us to remember God’s past faithfulness and to live in gratitude and obedience, knowing that our identity is rooted in Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s choice of Israel and His declaration, “I am the Lord your God,” reveal His deep love and commitment to His people. Despite their flaws, He established a covenant with them, guided them, and provided for them. This love is unconditional and unchanging, reflecting His character as a God who is both faithful and personal.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s covenant through Jesus Christ. Just as God chose Israel, Jesus calls His followers into a new covenant relationship with God (Luke 22:20). Through Christ, believers are not only chosen but also redeemed and empowered to live as God’s people (Ephesians 1:4-5). Jesus, as the revelation of God in the flesh, makes the declaration “I am the Lord your God” deeply personal and accessible.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does remembering God’s faithfulness in the past encourage you in your current walk with Him?
2. What does it mean to you personally that God has chosen you to be in a relationship with Him?
3. How does this verse challenge you to live faithfully as part of God’s covenant people?
4. In what ways does Jesus’ fulfillment of the covenant deepen your understanding of God’s promises?
5. How can you reflect God’s love and faithfulness in your daily life?