Ezekiel 21:14

So then, son of man, prophesy and strike your hands together. Let the sword strike two times, even three. It is a sword that slays, a sword of great slaughter closing in on every side!

Study Bible

So then, son of man, prophesy and strike your hands together.
The term "son of man" is a title used frequently for Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a prophet. Striking hands together is a gesture of emphasis or urgency, often used to draw attention to the seriousness of the message. This act symbolizes the certainty and imminence of God's judgment. In biblical times, gestures were a powerful part of communication, often used by prophets to convey divine messages.

Let the sword strike two times, even three.
The repetition of the sword striking signifies the intensity and completeness of the coming judgment. The number three often symbolizes completeness or finality in biblical literature. This imagery of the sword is a common biblical metaphor for divine judgment and warfare, as seen in other scriptures like Jeremiah 47:6 and Revelation 19:15. The sword represents God's instrument of justice, cutting through sin and rebellion.

It is a sword that slays,
This phrase underscores the lethal nature of the judgment. The sword is not merely a threat but an active agent of death. In the context of Ezekiel, this refers to the Babylonian invasion, which would bring destruction to Jerusalem. Historically, the Babylonians were known for their military prowess and brutal conquests, fulfilling this prophecy of slaughter.

a sword of great slaughter
The emphasis on "great slaughter" highlights the extensive and devastating impact of the judgment. This is not a minor skirmish but a significant and overwhelming defeat. The historical context of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem in 586 BC aligns with this prophecy, as it resulted in massive loss of life and the destruction of the city and temple.

closing in on every side!
This phrase indicates the inescapable nature of the coming judgment. The imagery of being surrounded suggests that there is no refuge or escape from God's wrath. This reflects the historical reality of Jerusalem being besieged by Babylon, where the city was encircled and cut off from aid. Theologically, it serves as a warning of the comprehensive nature of divine judgment against sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. Known for his vivid visions and symbolic actions.

2. Son of Man
A title used frequently in Ezekiel, referring to the prophet himself. It emphasizes his humanity and role as a representative of God to the people.

3. Sword
Symbolizes God's judgment and the impending destruction that will come upon Jerusalem and its inhabitants due to their persistent rebellion and sin.

4. Babylonian Exile
The historical context of Ezekiel's prophecies, where the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians as a result of their disobedience to God.

5. Jerusalem
The city facing imminent destruction as a consequence of its people's unfaithfulness and idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's judgment is inevitable for those who persist in sin. The repeated striking of the sword signifies the surety and completeness of His justice.

The Role of the Prophet
Ezekiel's task to prophesy and act out God's message underscores the responsibility of God's messengers to faithfully deliver His word, regardless of its reception.

The Call to Repentance
The impending judgment serves as a call to repentance. Believers are urged to examine their lives and turn away from sin before facing divine discipline.

The Sovereignty of God
The passage highlights God's control over nations and history. Believers can trust in His ultimate plan and justice, even amidst chaos and destruction.

The Power of Symbolic Actions
Ezekiel's actions, such as striking his hands, demonstrate the power of symbolism in conveying spiritual truths. Believers can use creative means to communicate God's message effectively.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the sword in Ezekiel 21:14 relate to the concept of God's judgment throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways can we, like Ezekiel, faithfully deliver God's message in our current cultural context?

3. What are some areas in our lives where we need to heed the call to repentance to avoid God's discipline?

4. How does understanding God's sovereignty in judgment provide comfort and assurance to believers today?

5. What are some creative ways we can use symbolism or actions to communicate biblical truths in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 32:41-42
These verses speak of God's sword of judgment, similar to the imagery in Ezekiel, emphasizing divine retribution against sin.

Hebrews 4:12
The Word of God is described as a sharp sword, highlighting its power to judge and discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Revelation 19:15
The imagery of a sword coming from the mouth of Christ, symbolizing His authority to execute judgment upon the nations.