Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 20 - Verse 5

This verse from the book of Ezekiel speaks to the covenant relationship between God and the people of Israel. In this passage, God is reminding the Israelites of His faithfulness and the special way in which He chose them as His own. The reference to God lifting up His hand signifies a solemn oath or promise, emphasizing the significance of the moment when God revealed Himself to the children of Israel in the land of Egypt. By proclaiming "I am the LORD your God," God is reaffirming His commitment to His chosen people and calling them to remember their identity as His chosen ones. This verse serves as a reminder of the special relationship that God has with the nation of Israel and the importance of their faithfulness to Him as their divine protector and provider.

Within this verse, the theological interpretation reveals the powerful manifestation of God's sovereignty and covenant relationship with the nation of Israel. The act of God choosing Israel signifies His divine election and special favor towards the people of Israel. The lifting up of His hand symbolizes an oath or a solemn promise, emphasizing the faithfulness and commitment of God to His chosen people. The reference to making Himself known in the land of Egypt recalls the historical event of the Exodus, where God revealed His power through the plagues and the deliverance of Israel from slavery. The declaration 'I am the LORD your God' underscores the personal relationship God desires to have with His people, reminding them of His authority and their allegiance to Him. Through this verse, we see the foundational elements of God's covenant with Israel and His unchanging character as the one true God.