Ezekiel 38: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Ezekiel 38 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Yahweh calls Ezekiel to prophesy against Gog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal (vv. 1-2). God declares his judgment against Gog, promising to turn him around and bring him out with a great army (vv. 3-6). Gog is instructed to prepare for invasion, gathering his forces (vv. 7-9). In the latter years, Gog plans to attack Israel, thinking to take plunder from those who dwell securely (vv. 10-13). Yahweh warns Gog that he will come from the north against Israel, which will lead to divine intervention (vv. 14-16). The day of Gog's attack will see God's wrath manifested through a great shaking in Israel (vv. 17-20). Yahweh will bring judgment upon Gog and his hordes, resulting in chaos (vv. 21-23).

Key verse

“and say, ‘Thus says the Lord Yahweh: “Behold, I am against you, Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal.”
Ezekiel 38:3 (WEB)

Outline

Ezekiel 38:1–2 The Call to Prophesy Against Gog
Ezekiel 38:3–6 God's Judgment on Gog
Ezekiel 38:7–9 Preparation for Invasion
Ezekiel 38:10–13 Evil Plans and Intentions
Ezekiel 38:14–16 The Coming Conflict
Ezekiel 38:17–20 Divine Wrath and Judgment
Ezekiel 38:21–23 God's Sovereignty Revealed

Discussion questions

In v4, what does God say He will put into Gog's jaws?
What do the 'many peoples' in v9 suggest about Gog's army?
Gog's evil plan in v10: what motivations might he have for invading Israel?
God's wrath in v18: why is this described as coming 'into my nostrils'?
When do you find yourself acting against a peaceful situation like Gog in v11?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Ezekiel 38: Psalm 46, Ezekiel 39, Ezekiel 27.

Before next time: read Ezekiel 39.