Ezekiel 37:20 – “Hold before their eyes the sticks you have written on.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, God commands Ezekiel to take the two sticks, now joined together, and hold them before the people. The sticks, representing the reunification of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, are meant to serve as a visible symbol of God’s promise to restore and unite His people.
The act of holding the sticks before their eyes emphasizes that this promise is not hidden or abstract. It is clear, tangible, and meant to be a source of hope and encouragement for the people who were living in exile and feeling hopeless.
Historical Context
At this point in Israel’s history, the northern kingdom (Israel or Ephraim) had been conquered by the Assyrians, and the southern kingdom (Judah) was in Babylonian exile. The people were scattered, divided, and unsure of their future. The division between the two kingdoms symbolized a long history of conflict and separation.
By instructing Ezekiel to hold the joined sticks before the people, God was making a public declaration of His plan to reunite and restore them as one nation under His leadership. This visual act was meant to reassure the exiles that God had not abandoned them and that His promises were trustworthy.
Theological Implications
This verse demonstrates God’s desire for His people to understand and believe in His promises. By instructing Ezekiel to hold the sticks before their eyes, God shows that He is not distant or abstract—He makes His plans visible and clear.
It also highlights God’s ability to restore unity and heal divisions. The joining of the sticks symbolizes reconciliation and a return to God’s original plan for His people to be one, reflecting His sovereign power and redemptive purpose.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “hold before their eyes” is significant, emphasizing the importance of making God’s promise visible and accessible. The image of the sticks, now joined, serves as a powerful visual representation of God’s plan for unity and restoration.
The simplicity of the act contrasts with the deep meaning behind it. The joined sticks are not just objects; they carry a profound message of hope, reconciliation, and God’s faithfulness.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 4:2-5: God uses Moses’ staff as a visible sign of His power, much like Ezekiel’s sticks serve as a visible sign of God’s promise to restore His people.
- Isaiah 49:22: “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: See, I will beckon to the nations, I will lift up my banner to the peoples.” This verse reflects God’s use of visible signs to declare His plans.
- Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” This passage encourages believers to make God’s truth visible to the world, echoing the idea of holding the sticks before the people’s eyes.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Ezekiel 37:20 reminds Christians of the importance of making God’s promises visible in their lives. Just as Ezekiel held the sticks before the people, believers are called to live in a way that visibly reflects God’s truth, love, and restoration.
It also encourages Christians to trust in God’s ability to fulfill His promises. The joined sticks symbolize unity and restoration, reminding us that no situation is too broken for God to heal and redeem.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s instruction to hold the sticks before the people reflects His love and care for them. He doesn’t keep His plans hidden or vague—He makes them clear and accessible, offering His people hope and reassurance.
This verse shows that God’s love is active and intentional. He meets His people in their despair, providing tangible reminders of His promises and His faithfulness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ezekiel 37:20 points to Jesus, who made God’s love and promises visible through His life, death, and resurrection. Just as Ezekiel held the sticks as a sign of unity, Jesus embodied God’s ultimate plan for reconciliation and restoration.
In John 12:32, Jesus said, “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” Like the sticks held before the people, Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection are the ultimate visible signs of God’s love and redemption. Through Christ, the division between humanity and God is healed, and unity is restored.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you make God’s promises visible in your daily life to those around you?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to trust in God’s ability to restore unity and heal divisions?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s desire to make His plans clear and accessible to His people?
- How does this passage challenge you to live in a way that reflects God’s love and truth?
- How does the visible symbol of the joined sticks deepen your understanding of Jesus as the ultimate sign of God’s love and redemption?