Old Testament
Ezekiel 17:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is making a strong statement about the seriousness of promises and commitments.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: As I live, I will repay on his own head for despising my oath and breaking my covenant.
Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; As I live, surely mine oath that he hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompense upon his own head.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is making a strong statement about the seriousness of promises and commitments. He emphasizes that He is alive and will take action against those who disregard their vows to Him. When someone breaks a promise or covenant, especially with God, there are consequences. This is not just about punishment; it’s about the importance of integrity and faithfulness. God values the commitments we make, and when we treat them lightly, it affects our relationship with Him. The imagery of repaying someone for their actions highlights that our choices have repercussions. It serves as a reminder that we should honor our word and be mindful of the promises we make, both to God and to others. Ultimately, this verse calls us to reflect on our own commitments and the weight they carry in our lives, urging us to be faithful and trustworthy in all our dealings. God desires a relationship built on trust and respect, and this verse underscores that expectation clearly and powerfully.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 17:19 to your life
Consider the promises you make in your life. Are you honoring them? Reflect on how breaking commitments can impact your relationships with others and with God. Strive to be a person of your word, recognizing the importance of trust and integrity in all areas of life. Your actions matter greatly, so choose wisely and faithfully uphold your commitments.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 17:19 mean?
Ezekiel 17:19 emphasizes the seriousness of breaking promises made to God. It highlights that God will hold individuals accountable for their actions, particularly when they disregard their commitments.
What is the significance of God's oath in Ezekiel 17:19?
God's oath in Ezekiel 17:19 signifies the weight and importance of His promises. It serves as a reminder that breaking such commitments has serious consequences, reflecting the value God places on integrity.
How does Ezekiel 17:19 relate to personal integrity?
Ezekiel 17:19 relates to personal integrity by stressing that our commitments, especially to God, should be honored. It encourages individuals to reflect on their promises and the impact of breaking them on their relationships.
What are the consequences mentioned in Ezekiel 17:19?
The consequences mentioned in Ezekiel 17:19 involve God repaying individuals for their disregard of His covenant. This serves as a warning that our choices have repercussions, particularly in our relationship with God.
The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
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