Ezekiel 22:2

"As for you, son of man, will you judge her? Will you pass judgment on the city of bloodshed? Then confront her with all her abominations

Study Bible

As for you, son of man
This phrase is a direct address to the prophet Ezekiel, emphasizing his role as a human intermediary between God and the people of Israel. The term "son of man" (Hebrew: "ben adam") is used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, highlighting the prophet's humanity and his distinction from the divine. It underscores the humility and responsibility of Ezekiel as a servant of God, tasked with delivering divine messages. This title also foreshadows the use of "Son of Man" in the New Testament, where it is a title for Jesus Christ, emphasizing His incarnation and identification with humanity.

will you judge her?
Here, God is commissioning Ezekiel to pronounce judgment upon Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for "judge" (שָׁפַט, "shaphat") implies not only the act of passing judgment but also the process of discerning and declaring the truth. This is a call for Ezekiel to confront the city with its sins, acting as a divine prosecutor. The rhetorical question suggests the inevitability of judgment due to the city's persistent rebellion and corruption. It reflects God's justice and the necessity of holding His people accountable to the covenant.

Will you judge this city of bloodshed?
The repetition of the question emphasizes the seriousness of the task and the gravity of Jerusalem's sins. The phrase "city of bloodshed" (Hebrew: "עִיר הַדָּמִים", "ir haddamim") is a stark indictment of Jerusalem's moral and spiritual state. Historically, this refers to the rampant violence, idolatry, and injustice that characterized the city at the time. The imagery of bloodshed conveys the severity of their transgressions and the resulting defilement of the land. This phrase serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and restoration.

Confront her with all her abominations
God instructs Ezekiel to expose the full extent of Jerusalem's abominations (Hebrew: "תּוֹעֵבוֹת", "to'evot"), which include idolatry, immorality, and social injustice. The word "abominations" is often used in the Old Testament to describe practices that are detestable to God, particularly those that violate His covenant and moral law. This confrontation is not merely punitive but is intended to bring about awareness and repentance. It highlights the prophetic role of calling out sin and urging a return to righteousness. The historical context reveals a society deeply entrenched in practices contrary to God's will, necessitating a bold and uncompromising prophetic voice.

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 for Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of God to the people.

3. City of Bloodshed
Refers to Jerusalem, which is being judged for its sins and abominations, particularly violence and idolatry.

4. Abominations
The sinful practices and idolatry that the people of Jerusalem engaged in, which were detestable in the sight of God.

5. Judgment
The act of God holding Jerusalem accountable for its sins, as communicated through the prophet Ezekiel.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets are called to speak truth, even when it is uncomfortable or confrontational. Like Ezekiel, believers are sometimes called to address sin within their communities.

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin, especially when persistent and unrepentant, leads to judgment. This passage reminds us of the gravity of sin and the need for repentance.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God is just and must judge sin, His warnings through prophets like Ezekiel are also acts of mercy, giving people the opportunity to repent.

The Importance of Holiness
The abominations of Jerusalem serve as a warning to maintain holiness and avoid practices that are detestable to God.

Community Accountability
The sins of a community can lead to collective judgment. Believers are encouraged to hold each other accountable and strive for righteousness together.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a "son of man" inform our understanding of his mission and message?

2. In what ways can we identify and confront "abominations" in our own lives and communities today?

3. How do the themes of judgment and mercy in Ezekiel 22:2 relate to the message of the Gospel?

4. What lessons can we learn from the repeated warnings given to Jerusalem about the consequences of sin?

5. How can we apply the concept of community accountability in our church or small group settings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18 and 20
These chapters outline various abominations and sins that the Israelites were commanded to avoid, providing context for the accusations against Jerusalem.

Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah also speaks against the sins of Jerusalem, highlighting the consistency of God's message through different prophets.

Matthew 23
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, echoing the theme of judgment due to persistent sin and rejection of God's messengers.