Read Ezekiel 32:17-32
In case you weren’t counting, this is the seventh prophecy set aside for Egypt. It’s that important to God to get this message out. In this final reading, we’re taken into the depths. “For I will send them down to the world below in company with those who descend to the pit.” We get a glimpse at the pit of hell.
How did it make you feel to read about the place of the dead you never want to see in person? Did it surprise you to see a reference like this in the Bible? What are some of the themes revealed? Do you think this is where Jesus went between his crucifixion and resurrection?
What do we see depicted here in hell? Outcasts. People slaughtered by the sword. Familiar pagan leaders who suffered the same fate. Shame. Powerful and respected rulers now crushed and broken. The people there “share the shame of all who have descended to the pit.”
How do you prepare yourself to be part of the hoard in such a place of torment? The first response would be denial. No one in their right mind would choose an eternity in the pit of hell. Yet, kings and rulers abound in this place, along with their fighting armies. If only they had been in God’s army instead!
The pit of hell is not just a make-believe place. Other Bible texts point to this place of torment. I understand Jesus talks about it more than he talks about heaven. A few details we glean from Jesus are: a place of unquenchable fire (Luke 9:43), where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 13:42).
This eternal torment is our default destination just like Egypt, Assyria, Edom, and all the others. That notion can be hard to grasp until you remember how much God loves the world. Jesus came so that we would be rescued from eternal damnation. We have hope in our Prince of Peace, our Savior and King.
It was too late for Pharaoh and all the others who had gone before and after him. All those who have strayed too far away from God, not trusting his loving arms as the only way to salvation, are lost in this pit of hell.
The good news for us is it not too late. Whether you’ve been following Jesus your whole life or just the last five minutes, you are probably not going to see the pit so well described here and in other places in Scripture. When hell is mentioned, it’s usually a pretty strong reminder to us that is a place we want to avoid.
I thought the ending to this prophecy was a bit interesting. Did you notice that God is thinking of the Egyptian Pharaoh’s “comfort” when he says, “he will take comfort that he is not alone in having his hordes killed.” When you see familiar faces in a crowd, it can be more welcoming. I’m looking forward to recognizing a whole different crowd in glory.
There’s no question where those ruthless people and their followers ended up. God’s justice system played out then, just like it does today. Who are those false prophets today, those evil influenced leaders, those people not living for Jesus? This warning may just as well be for them.
God knows our hearts, and I trust him to make the best decision regarding me and my life. What he does with other people is between them and God. I may have my own opinions, but those don’t matter so they don’t need to be spoken. I am the only one I can truly be responsible for, and I chose life. I choose Jesus. What about you?
Let’s pray. LORD your plans are perfect. I may not know what they are, but I do know they are perfect. I am so grateful my future is held securely in your hands. I trust you with my life. Shine through me and use me to help others choose you, too. Prepare my heart and equip me for service. Being on your team as a light bringer is such an honor. Make me more like you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
