Ezekiel 20:38 Meaning and Explanation
“And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God will exclude rebels from the restored community while bringing the faithful back to the land.
The Context of Ezekiel 20:38
God will exclude rebels from restoration while bringing the faithful back to the land.
What Does Ezekiel 20:38 Mean?
The remnant theology becomes explicit: not all Israel will be restored, but only those who turn from rebellion. The rebels and transgressors will be brought out of exile but will not enter the promised land—a reversal and fulfillment of the oath against the wilderness generation. They will experience a third level of judgment: not exile among the nations, but exclusion from restoration.
The purpose remains knowledge of God: 'ye shall know that I am the LORD.' The restored community will have learned what exile could not teach those without faith—that God is sovereign, just, and committed to His covenant. This community will understand God's character not as doctrine but as lived truth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 20:38
What does Ezekiel 20:38 mean?
God will exclude rebels from the restored community while bringing the faithful back to the land.
What is the context of Ezekiel 20:38?
God will exclude rebels from restoration while bringing the faithful back to the land.