Sabbath, March 1 – Ezekiel 28, 29 – Additional reading, Desire of Ages, Pages 21, 22, 758, 759, and 764.

1. Scholars believe that Ithobaal III (ca. 591–573 B.C.) was the most likely earthly ruler of Tyre referenced in Ezekiel 28. The King of Tyre was noted for his wisdom and pride, among other things. God judges this proud ruler, sentencing him to death and being tossed in a pit. How could ” pride ” have misled such a wise king? Has your pride ever led you astray? How can we avoid pride getting the best of us?

2. What similarities and/or differences do you see between the King of Tyre in Ezekiel 28 and Pharaoh King of Egypt in Ezekiel 29?

3. What lesson was given to Israel, according to Ezekiel 29:16? How can this be a lesson for us today?

Have you heard of the term “dual prophecy?” This is what Ezekiel 28 is often called because of its dual meaning in the text. Ezekiel 28 works on two levels. (1) The prophecy against the King of Tyre (Ezekiel 28:1-10) is a literal, historical judgement against the prideful human ruler of Tyre. (2) The Lamentation over the Fall of the “Anointed Cherub” (Ezekiel 28:11-19), which, while originally addressing the king metaphorically, also refers to the fall of Satan, symbolizing the deeper spiritual implications of pride.

Ezekiel 28 addresses the King of Tyre, condemning his pride (Ezekiel 28:2, 5) and self-deification (Ezekiel 28: 2,5, 6, 9) and predicting the destruction of Tyre and its ruler. (Ezekiel 28:8-10) However, in a deeper, spiritual layer, it shifts to a prophetic language that addresses the fall of Satan. (Ezekiel 28:11-19) This section describes the danger of pride in a broader, cosmic sense, illustrating the fall of this “cherub” and his rebellion against God. Ezekiel 28 provides a warning against pride and self-exaltation that transcends earthly rulers to encompass a larger, spiritual reality.

The great crocodile in the Nile- Pharaoh is likened to a “great monster who lies in the midst of his rivers” in Ezekiel 29:3. This is likely a crocodile in the Nile, symbolizing Egypt’s arrogance and self-reliance. Egypt’s reliance on its own power and wealth, rather than trusting in God, will lead to its downfall. God declares that Egypt will be defeated and be left desolate for forty years (Ezekiel 29:11), with no ruler or sovereignty, and its people will be scattered. After forty years, Egypt will be restored, but it will no longer be as powerful as it once was.

Ezekiel 29:15 It shall be the lowliest of kingdoms; it shall never again exalt itself above the nations, for I will diminish them so that they will not rule over the nations anymore. (This prophecy is still true today!) As the 29th chapter of Ezekiel progresses, we see how God allowed King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon to fulfill the prophesied judgments on Tyre and Egypt. Ezekiel 29 teaches us the dangers of pride and self-reliance. Additionally, we see God’s Sovereignty and ultimate control over nations’ destinies.

How are you today? Are you struggling with pride, arrogance, or self-reliance? (be honest now) Have you placed your full trust in the Lord? Have you wholly surrendered to God? Is there someone in leadership within your world that you are struggling with? Is there a “pharaoh” or “king” that has you angry or afraid? Would you choose today to trust God with all your cares?

My prayer today: That we may “Humble ourselves before the Lord,…” (James 4:10) That we may trust God’s word! Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. (Psalm 55:22) Thank you, Heavenly Father, for your love, patience, mercy, grace, protection, guidance, wisdom, and peace. Amen