Ezekiel 37: The Valley of Dry Bones

Overview

Ezekiel 37 is one of the most iconic and theologically rich chapters in the Book of Ezekiel. It presents two major prophetic visions: the Valley of Dry Bones (vv. 1-14) and the Two Sticks representing the reunification of Israel (vv. 15-28). This chapter serves as a powerful declaration of God’s sovereign power to restore life, both physically and spiritually, to His people.

In the first vision, God brings Ezekiel to a valley filled with dry bones and commands him to prophesy over them. As he does, the bones come together, are covered with flesh, and finally receive breath—symbolizing the spiritual and national resurrection of Israel.
In the second vision, two sticks—representing Judah and Israel—are joined into one, prophesying the reunification of God’s people under one king and one covenant.

Ezekiel 37 underscores God’s absolute sovereignty, the certainty of His promises, the power of His Word, and hope for future restoration. It is a chapter filled with eschatological hope and messianic expectation, all anchored in the inerrant, authoritative Word of God.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Background

Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile (around 593–571 BC), a time when the people of Judah were devastated, displaced, and demoralized. The destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 586 BC left the Israelites hopeless, questioning their identity and covenantal relationship with Yahweh.

Audience: The exiled Jewish community in Babylon
Context: Post-destruction of Jerusalem, national despair, identity crisis
Message: God had not abandoned His people. Even in exile, He had a plan for national and spiritual restoration.

Literary Features

Ezekiel 37 is composed of two symbolic visions with prophetic interpretation:

Valley of Dry Bones (vv. 1–14) – Poetic, apocalyptic, vivid, and symbolic; combines prophecy and vision narrative.
Unification of the Two Sticks (vv. 15–28) – A symbolic prophetic act accompanied by divine explanation.

The chapter uses symbolism (bones = Israel), divine command (“Prophesy to these bones”), and eschatological language that points both to Israel‘s return from exile and to a future, greater spiritual renewal under the Messiah.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. God’s Sovereignty and Power Over Life and Death

God alone can bring life to what is dead (vv. 5–6, 14).
The bones were “very dry”—a picture of complete hopelessness—yet God’s Word and Spirit brought life.
This affirms divine omnipotence and God’s power in regeneration.

Doctrinal Link: This is foundational to soteriology—salvation is by God’s initiative. Like the dry bones, sinners are spiritually dead until made alive by the Spirit through the Word (Ephesians 2:1-5).

2. The Authority and Power of God’s Word

God commands Ezekiel to prophesy, and it is through the spoken Word that the bones respond (vv. 4, 7, 9).
The Word of God is effectual and sufficient; it accomplishes what God sends it to do (Isaiah 55:11).

Doctrinal Link: Reinforces the sufficiency and inerrancy of Scripture as the primary means by which God accomplishes His work in the world.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Regeneration

Breath (Hebrew: ruach) is repeatedly mentioned (vv. 5-10), representing the Spirit of God.
The vision teaches that spiritual life is impossible without the Spirit.

Doctrinal Link: This prefigures John 3:5-8, where Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be “born of the Spirit” to enter the Kingdom of God.

4. The Restoration and Reunification of God’s People

The joining of the two sticks (vv. 15-23) foretells a future reunification of divided Israel.
This anticipates the New Covenant unity of God’s people in Christ—Jews and Gentiles alike.

Doctrinal Link: Points forward to the unity of the Church under Christ (Ephesians 2:14-18).

5. The Messianic King and the Everlasting Covenant

“My servant David will be king over them” (v. 24) is a messianic prophecy.
It speaks of a future eternal kingdom with one shepherd and an everlasting covenant of peace (vv. 24-28).

Doctrinal Link: This is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the Son of David (Luke 1:32-33), who establishes the New Covenant (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 13:20).

Certainly. Here’s the continuation of the Expository Bible Preaching, Sermon, and Study Guide for Ezekiel 37, focusing on:

Verse-by-verse analysis
Theological implications and connection to Jesus Christ
Connection to God the Father

Verse-by-Verse Analysis (Ezekiel 37:1-28)

Verses 1-2 – “The hand of the Lord was on me…”

Explanation: Ezekiel is led by God into a valley full of dry bones. This is a vision, not a literal experience, yet it reflects a literal truth about Israel’s spiritual and national state—utterly lifeless.
Cross-reference: Jeremiah 8:1; Psalm 141:7
Application: Without God, people are spiritually lifeless. This verse paints the human condition apart from divine intervention.

Verse 3 – “Son of man, can these bones live?”

Explanation: God poses a rhetorical question, highlighting human helplessness. Ezekiel wisely defers the answer to God, acknowledging divine omniscience.
Cross-reference: Matthew 19:26 – “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Doctrinal Insight: Human reason sees no hope, but God specializes in resurrection and restoration.
Application: In seemingly hopeless spiritual or personal situations, believers must look to God’s sovereign ability.

Verses 4-6 – “Prophesy to these bones…”

Explanation: God commands Ezekiel to preach to dry bones—symbolic of Israel—declaring God’s Word. Life will come through divine promise.
Cross-reference: Romans 10:17 – “Faith comes from hearing the message… through the word of Christ.”
Doctrinal Insight: Salvation begins with the preaching of God’s Word; regeneration is rooted in His spoken truth.
Application: The Word must be central in evangelism and discipleship, even when the audience seems unresponsive.

Verses 7-8 – “I prophesied… and there was a rattling…”

Explanation: The bones come together and are clothed with flesh, but there is still no breath—symbolizing reformation without regeneration.
Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 3:5 – “Having a form of godliness but denying its power…”
Doctrinal Insight: Only the Spirit can bring life. Religion without the Spirit is still dead.
Application: Transformation in appearance is not enough; spiritual rebirth is essential.

Verses 9-10 – “Prophesy to the breath…”

Explanation: Ezekiel is told to speak to the “breath” (ruach – also “Spirit”), which then enters the bodies. They become a “vast army.”
Cross-reference: John 20:22; Acts 2:1-4
Doctrinal Insight: Spiritual life comes by the Holy Spirit. This anticipates Pentecost.
Application: Preaching must be Spirit-empowered. Without the Spirit, there is no true life in the Church.

Verses 11-14 – “These bones are the whole house of Israel…”

Explanation: God interprets the vision—Israel sees itself as hopeless, but God will open their graves and bring them back to their land and to Himself.
Cross-reference: Hosea 6:2; Romans 11:26
Doctrinal Insight: This includes both the physical return to the land and future spiritual awakening.
Application: God’s promises are not dead. Christians can trust in God’s power to restore what seems beyond repair.

Verses 15-17 – “Take a stick for Judah… and another for Joseph…”

Explanation: Ezekiel is told to perform a symbolic act showing the reunification of the divided kingdom.
Cross-reference: Isaiah 11:12-13; Zechariah 10:6
Doctrinal Insight: God’s redemptive plan includes the unity of His people.
Application: God desires unity in His Church and His people. Disunity must be surrendered to His will.

Verses 18-23 – “I will take the Israelites out of the nations…”

Explanation: God promises to bring His people from exile and purify them from idolatry.
Cross-reference: Jeremiah 31:31–34; Titus 2:14
Doctrinal Insight: This is a picture of sanctification and covenantal renewal.
Application: God’s people are called to holiness, set apart from the world.

Verses 24-25 – “My servant David will be king over them…”

Explanation: A messianic prophecy—“David” refers to the coming King from David’s line.
Cross-reference: Luke 1:32; Revelation 22:16
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant and rules eternally.
Application: Believers must submit to Christ as their sovereign King and shepherd.

Verses 26-28 – “I will make a covenant of peace…”

Explanation: God will dwell with His people forever. His sanctuary will be among them.
Cross-reference: Revelation 21:3; Hebrews 13:20
Doctrinal Insight: Points to the eternal New Covenant fulfilled in Christ.
Application: This gives believers hope of eternal communion with God.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Christ as the Resurrection and the Life

Ezekiel 37 foreshadows Jesus Christ, who proclaims, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). Just as the dry bones are raised to life by God’s Spirit and Word, Jesus raises sinners from death to life through His atoning work and resurrection power.

The breath of life is symbolic of the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus sends (John 20:22).
The reunited people under one King (v. 24) clearly points to Jesus, the Son of David, who rules over His people with justice and peace.
The covenant of peace (v. 26) finds its fulfillment in the New Covenant (Luke 22:20), established through Jesus’ blood.
The sanctuary among them (v. 27) is realized in Christ’s incarnation (John 1:14), and fully in Revelation 21:3, where God dwells with His redeemed forever.

Redemptive Storyline

Creation: The breath of life recalls Genesis 2:7—God breathes life into man.
Fall: Israel’s spiritual death mirrors humanity’s condition in sin.
Redemption: The Spirit enters and revives the dead bones, pointing to regeneration through Christ.
Restoration: A reunited people under one King, in covenant with God, ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s eternal Kingdom.

Connection to God the Father

The Initiator of Restoration

God the Father is the one who shows Ezekiel the vision, commands the prophecy, and promises restoration.
The chapter begins and ends with “Thus says the Lord GOD”—a declaration of divine authority and initiative.

Covenant Faithfulness

The Father is faithful to His covenant with Abraham and David, promising not only to bring Israel back physically but also to transform them spiritually.
Ezekiel 37 is an expression of the Father’s unwavering commitment to redeem and dwell with His people.

His Sovereignty

God the Father declares what will happen—and it does. He controls history, nations, and the hearts of His people.
The phrase “Then you will know that I am the Lord” is repeated to emphasize His divine identity and glory.

Here is the continuation of the Expository Bible Preaching, Sermon, and Study Guide on Ezekiel 37, now including:

Connection to the Holy Spirit
Sermon Outline and Flow
Illustrations and Examples

How Ezekiel 37 Connects to the Holy Spirit

Ezekiel 37 provides one of the clearest Old Testament pictures of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word ruach—used in this chapter—means breath, wind, or spirit, and appears multiple times (vv. 1, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14).

Key Connections:

Life-Giving Role of the Spirit (vv. 5-6, 9-10, 14)
- The Spirit is the agent of spiritual regeneration. Just as the breath entered the lifeless bodies, so the Spirit gives life to spiritually dead people (cf. John 3:5-8; Titus 3:5).
- This anticipates the New Covenant promise in Ezekiel 36:26-27, where God promises to put His Spirit in His people.
Empowerment and Revival (v. 10)
- The army stood up after receiving breath—not just alive but strong and ready. This pictures the Spirit’s empowering role in God’s people for mission and witness (Acts 1:8).
The Spirit’s Role in Prophecy and Ministry
- Ezekiel was empowered by the Spirit to speak God’s Word, showing how Spirit and Word work together in life transformation.
- Today’s preaching must be Spirit-filled and Word-centered to bring about real change.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Sermon Title: “From Dry Bones to Living Army: The Power of God to Restore”
Text: Ezekiel 37:1-28
Theme: God brings spiritual life and unity through His Spirit, His Word, and His Son.

I. Introduction: “Is There Hope for What Seems Dead?”

Introduce with a relatable question: Can what seems hopeless ever live again?
Mention personal or global situations that appear too far gone (e.g., broken marriages, dying churches, nations in chaos).

Transition: Ezekiel faced such a question as he looked out over a valley full of bones…

II. The Vision of the Dry Bones (vv. 1-10) – God Revives the Dead

The Hopeless Condition (vv. 1-3)

Israel as spiritually lifeless
Modern application: spiritual dryness, apathy in churches

The Power of the Word (vv. 4-8)

The Word brings structure and order
Illustration: CPR restores circulation, but breath is still needed

The Breath of Life (vv. 9-10)

The Holy Spirit gives true life
Application: Are you simply “reassembled” or truly alive in Christ?

III. The Interpretation of the Vision (vv. 11-14) – God Restores His People

God Knows Our Hopelessness (v. 11)

“Our bones are dried up, and our hope is gone…”
Many believers today echo this pain

God Declares His Promise (vv. 12-14)

He will open graves—symbolic of revival and return
Application: God has power over any spiritual death or depression

The Role of the Spirit (v. 14)

God places His Spirit in us for life, joy, and power

IV. The Vision of the Two Sticks (vv. 15-28) – God Reunites His People

Unity Under One King (vv. 19-22)

Jesus Christ, Son of David, is our true Shepherd and King

Holiness and Covenant (vv. 23-26)

God removes idols, purifies His people
Application: Repent from modern-day idols (self, comfort, materialism)

God Dwelling with His People (vv. 27-28)

Foreshadows Revelation 21:3—God’s eternal presence with His people

V. Conclusion: “Can These Bones Live?” Yes—Through Christ!

Summary: God brings life where there was death, unity where there was division, and hope where there was despair.
B. Call to Action:

For the unsaved: Receive life through Christ by the Spirit.
For the weary: Let God breathe fresh spiritual life into you.
For the church: Be a unified army empowered by God’s Spirit.

Closing Verse: John 5:25 – “A time is coming when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live.”

Illustrations and Examples

1. Medical Resuscitation

A cardiac arrest victim may receive CPR and have their heart restarted. But without oxygen (breath), the brain dies. Similarly, people may “look alive” (morally upright, religious) but without the Holy Spirit, they are spiritually dead.

2. A Church on the Brink

A pastor once visited a church with beautiful buildings and stained glass but no joy, no conversions, no passion. It looked alive, but the Spirit had long departed.
Like the dry bones, it needed revival—not renovation but resurrection.

3. A Barren Tree in Spring

In winter, a tree may appear completely dead. But in spring, new buds show life was hidden within. In the same way, God can restore what seems dead—be it a marriage, a calling, or a heart.

4. Personal Testimony Example

“I once felt like those dry bones—burnt out, numb in my walk with God. But through time in His Word and surrender to the Holy Spirit’s work, I found new passion, direction, and spiritual breath again.”

Application for Today’s Christian

Ezekiel 37 is not just a prophecy for ancient Israel—it carries rich relevance for the believer today. It speaks to discipleship, spiritual growth, stewardship, and the daily walk of faith.

1. Discipleship: Cultivate Spiritual Vitality

Just as dry bones need breath, so Christians need constant renewal by the Holy Spirit.
Believers must prioritize regular intake of God’s Word and intentional time in prayer, allowing God to breathe new life into their hearts.
Daily Practice: Set aside time for prayerful reading of Scripture; ask the Holy Spirit to revive areas of spiritual dryness (Psalm 51:10).

2. Stewardship: Steward the Life God Has Restored

God didn’t just bring the bones to life—He raised an army (v. 10). Believers are saved not to sit, but to serve.
Use your time, energy, resources, and gifts for God’s purposes, not just personal comfort.
Daily Practice: Volunteer in your church or community. Serve others with the life God gave you.

3. Faithfulness in Suffering and Waiting

The exiles waited for restoration. Today’s Christian must also trust in God’s promises even in desolate seasons.
Daily Practice: Write down God’s promises from Scripture. Hold them during trials, remembering that God brings life even from ashes (Isaiah 61:3).

4. Unity in the Body of Christ

The unification of the two sticks points to spiritual unity under Christ.
Work toward reconciliation, forgiveness, and humility in relationships within the Church.
Daily Practice: Take a step toward healing a broken relationship. Be a peacemaker (Matthew 5:9).

Connection to God’s Love

At the heart of Ezekiel 37 is a stunning picture of God’s compassion for His people:

1. God Sees and Responds to Our Hopelessness

Verse 11 shows Israel saying, “Our hope is gone.” But God intervenes—not out of obligation but because of covenantal love (chesed).
His love is not reactive—it’s initiating, seeking out the lost, reviving the weary, and raising the dead.

2. Redemptive Love, Not Just Judgment

Though Ezekiel has many judgment passages, this chapter reminds us that God’s ultimate goal is redemption, not destruction.
The entire vision is motivated by God’s desire to restore and not leave His people in exile.

3. God’s Desire to Dwell with His People

Verses 26-28 emphasize that God wants to live among His people forever—a foreshadowing of Christ’s incarnation and the final union in Revelation.
This is relational love, not distant sympathy. God doesn’t just fix—He abides.

Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Broader Biblical Themes

Ezekiel 37 is deeply rooted in the Bible’s overarching story. It aligns with major themes that shape the believer’s worldview and theology:

1. Creation and New Creation

Creation Theme: God formed Adam from dust and breathed life into him (Genesis 2:7).
New Creation Theme: The valley of bones is re-created into a living army—mirroring spiritual rebirth (2 Corinthians 5:17).
It anticipates the final resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 21:1-4).

2. Redemption and Resurrection

The chapter is a powerful symbol of spiritual redemption—from death to life.
This mirrors the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which makes personal resurrection possible.
It reminds the Church of God’s ongoing plan to redeem His people, not abandon them.

3. Covenant and Fulfillment

The promise of a “covenant of peace” (v. 26) recalls the New Covenant in Christ (Luke 22:20).
God’s faithfulness to Abraham, Moses, and David is not revoked in exile—He continues to fulfill His Word.
The chapter ties into the Abrahamic Covenant (land and people), the Davidic Covenant (a forever King), and the New Covenant (Spirit within).

4. The Kingdom of God

The united kingdom under “David” is a foretaste of the Kingdom of God ruled by Jesus Christ.
This kingdom is not political but spiritual, eternal, and redemptive.

Absolutely. Here’s the final section of the Ezekiel 37 Preaching and Study Guide, concluding with reflection questions and ensuring the entire resource is structured for clarity, authority, and usability by church leaders. This guide is designed for both personal growth and small group engagement, rooted in biblical authority, Christ-centered teaching, and practical application.

Reflection Questions

Use these for personal meditation, discipleship groups, or small group discussions to help internalize and apply the truth of Ezekiel 37.

Spiritual Condition & Renewal

In what areas of your life do you feel like “dry bones”?
- Where do you feel spiritually numb, lifeless, or disconnected from God?
How has God used His Word and Spirit to bring new life to you in the past?
- Can you recall a time when God’s Word revived your soul?
Are you relying on outward structure (like religion or routine) without the inner breath of the Spirit?
- What does it look like for you to walk in step with the Spirit daily?

God’s Promises and Restoration

Do you believe that no situation is too far gone for God to restore? Why or why not?
- How does Ezekiel 37 challenge your view of what God can do?
What specific promise from God’s Word do you need to hold onto today?
- How can you trust God’s Word more fully in a current struggle?
What areas of your church, family, or community need spiritual revival?
- Are you praying and believing that God can bring new life there?

Christ and the Kingdom

How does this chapter increase your appreciation for Jesus as your King and Shepherd?
- How should that affect your obedience and worship?
Are you actively pursuing unity in the Body of Christ, like the reunification of the two sticks?
- What relationships need reconciliation in your life or church?

Mission and Discipleship

What does it look like for you to be part of God’s “vast army” today?
- How are you using your time and gifts to advance His kingdom?
How can you help others who feel spiritually dead or hopeless?
- In what ways can you speak life into others by sharing God’s Word?

Final Notes for Preachers and Leaders

Scripture-Centered: Teach Ezekiel 37 with a high view of Scripture—believing that it is God-breathed, authoritative, and effective to transform lives.
Christ-Focused: Point to Jesus Christ as the true King, the giver of the Spirit, and the one who brings the dead to life.
Spirit-Dependent: Preach and teach in dependence on the Holy Spirit—not trusting in words alone, but in the breath of God to give them power.
Practical and Pastoral: Always ask: “How does this speak to our lives today?” Help people see that the Word of God is not just true—it’s life-giving, hope-giving, and always relevant.