Ezekiel 11:4

Therefore prophesy against them; prophesy, O son of man!"

Study Bible

Therefore prophesy against them;
This command is directed to Ezekiel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile. The context is a vision where God reveals the idolatry and corruption of the leaders in Jerusalem. The phrase "prophesy against them" indicates a message of judgment. Prophecy in the Old Testament often served as a warning to turn from sin. The leaders in Jerusalem were misleading the people, and God was using Ezekiel to call them to account. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God holding leaders responsible for their influence over others, as seen in passages like Jeremiah 23:1-2 and James 3:1.

prophesy, O son of man!”
The term "son of man" is a title used frequently for Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. It underscores the contrast between God's divine authority and human frailty. This title is also significant in the New Testament, where Jesus frequently refers to Himself as the "Son of Man," highlighting His role as the representative and redeemer of humanity (e.g., Matthew 8:20, Mark 10:45). In Ezekiel's context, the repetition of "prophesy" emphasizes the urgency and importance of delivering God's message. The prophetic role is to speak God's truth, regardless of opposition or personal cost, a theme echoed in the lives of other prophets like Jeremiah and Amos.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. The Elders of Israel
Leaders of the people who were often involved in idolatry and leading the nation astray.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the elders and people of Israel were committing abominations, leading to God's judgment.

4. The Spirit of the Lord
The divine presence that empowers Ezekiel to prophesy and deliver God's message.

5. The Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon, a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets are called to speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or met with resistance.

The prophetic message often includes both judgment and hope, calling people to repentance.

The Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders are accountable to God for their actions and influence over others.

Spiritual leaders must guide people according to God's word, not personal or cultural preferences.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Idolatry leads to spiritual and moral decay, inviting God's judgment.

True worship requires exclusive devotion to God, rejecting all forms of idolatry.

The Empowerment of the Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to fulfill God's calling, providing strength and courage.

Dependence on the Spirit is essential for effective ministry and witness.

The Call to Repentance
God's judgment is an invitation to repentance and restoration.

Repentance involves turning away from sin and returning to God with a sincere heart.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet challenge our understanding of speaking truth in today's world?

2. In what ways can spiritual leaders today ensure they are leading according to God's word rather than cultural trends?

3. What are some modern forms of idolatry that can distract us from true worship of God?

4. How can we rely on the Holy Spirit for empowerment in our daily lives and ministries?

5. What steps can we take to cultivate a heart of repentance and align ourselves with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:9-10
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah is called to prophesy against nations and kingdoms, highlighting the role of prophets in declaring God's judgment.

Isaiah 6:8-9
Isaiah's commission to speak to a rebellious people parallels Ezekiel's mission, emphasizing the theme of prophetic calling.

Acts 7:51-53
Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin reflects the resistance of Israel's leaders to God's prophets, similar to the elders in Ezekiel's time.

Revelation 10:11
John's call to prophesy again to many peoples, nations, and kings echoes the ongoing need for prophetic voices.