Ezekiel 21:19

"Now you, son of man, mark out two roads for the sword of the king of Babylon to take, both starting from the same land. And make a signpost where the road branches off to each city.

Study Bible

Now you, son of man
This phrase addresses Ezekiel, often referred to as "son of man," emphasizing his role as a human prophet among the people. This title is used frequently in Ezekiel, highlighting his humanity in contrast to the divine messages he delivers. It also foreshadows the use of "Son of Man" as a title for Jesus in the New Testament, emphasizing His role as the representative human.

mark out two roads for the sword of the king of Babylon to take
The "sword" symbolizes impending judgment and destruction, often used in prophetic literature to denote war or divine retribution. The king of Babylon, likely Nebuchadnezzar, was a significant figure in the Near Eastern world, known for his military campaigns and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. The two roads represent choices or paths of conquest, indicating a decision point for the Babylonian army.

both starting from the same land
This suggests a common origin for the paths, likely referring to Babylon or a nearby region. It underscores the idea that the impending judgment is divinely orchestrated, with both paths leading to different outcomes but originating from the same divine purpose. This reflects the sovereignty of God over nations and their leaders, as seen throughout the prophetic books.

And make a signpost where the road branches off to each city
The signpost serves as a metaphor for guidance and decision-making, indicating a point of divergence. In ancient times, signposts were crucial for travelers, especially in desert regions where paths were not always clear. The cities likely refer to Jerusalem and Rabbah of the Ammonites, both significant targets for Babylonian campaigns. This imagery of branching paths can also be seen in other scriptures, such as Deuteronomy 30:19, where choices lead to life or death, blessing or curse.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. He is often referred to as "son of man" in the book.

2. King of Babylon
Refers to Nebuchadnezzar II, the powerful ruler of Babylon who played a significant role in the exile of the Israelites.

3. The Sword
Symbolizes the impending judgment and destruction that God is bringing upon Jerusalem and other nations through Babylon.

4. The Land
Represents the starting point of the prophecy, likely referring to Babylon or the region from which the king of Babylon would begin his campaign.

5. Signpost
A metaphorical or literal marker indicating the decision point for the path of destruction, symbolizing God's guidance in the unfolding events.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of nations and their leaders, using them to fulfill His purposes, even when they are unaware of His guidance.

The Certainty of God's Word
Just as the signpost marks a definite path, God's prophecies are certain and will come to pass. Believers can trust in the reliability of God's Word.

The Call to Repentance
The impending judgment serves as a call for repentance. Believers should examine their lives and turn from sin, recognizing the seriousness of God's warnings.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel are tasked with delivering God's messages, often involving difficult truths. Believers are called to listen and respond to God's messengers today.

Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
Just as the signpost directed the path of the sword, believers should seek God's guidance in their decisions, trusting His wisdom and direction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the king of Babylon in Ezekiel 21:19 illustrate God's sovereignty over nations and leaders?

2. In what ways can we see the certainty of God's Word in our lives today, similar to the signpost marking the path of the sword?

3. How does the concept of divine judgment in Ezekiel 21:19 encourage us to examine our own lives and seek repentance?

4. What can we learn from Ezekiel's role as a prophet about the importance of delivering and responding to God's messages?

5. How can we apply the idea of seeking divine guidance in our decision-making processes, as illustrated by the signpost in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25
This chapter also speaks of the judgment coming through Babylon, emphasizing the role of Nebuchadnezzar as God's instrument of wrath.

Proverbs 16:9
Highlights the sovereignty of God in directing human paths, similar to how God directs the path of the Babylonian sword.

Isaiah 10:5-6
Describes Assyria as the rod of God's anger, paralleling Babylon's role in Ezekiel as an instrument of divine judgment.