Ezekiel 26:1

In the eleventh month of the twelfth year, on the first day of the month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

In the eleventh year
This phrase situates the prophecy within a specific historical context. The "eleventh year" refers to the eleventh year of King Jehoiachin's captivity, which is around 586 BC, a pivotal time in Israel's history. This was the year Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians, marking a significant moment of judgment and fulfillment of prophetic warnings. The specificity of the date underscores the precision and reliability of God's word, reminding us that God's plans unfold in His perfect timing.

on the first day of the month
The mention of the "first day of the month" highlights the importance of beginnings in the biblical narrative. In Hebrew culture, the new moon, marking the first day of the month, was a time of renewal and reflection. This timing suggests a fresh revelation or a new phase in God's dealings with His people and the surrounding nations. It serves as a reminder that God is continually at work, initiating new chapters in His redemptive history.

the word of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin and authority of the message Ezekiel is about to deliver. In Hebrew, "word" (דָּבָר, davar) signifies not just spoken words but also actions and events. The "word of the LORD" is powerful, creative, and transformative, reflecting God's sovereign will and purpose. It is a reminder that Scripture is not merely human words but the living and active communication of God Himself.

came to me
The personal nature of this phrase indicates that Ezekiel is the chosen vessel for this divine revelation. The Hebrew verb used here (הָיָה, hayah) conveys the idea of becoming or happening, suggesting that the word of the LORD actively engages with the prophet. This personal encounter with God’s word is a reminder of the intimate relationship God desires with His servants, calling them to be faithful messengers of His truth.

saying
The use of "saying" introduces the direct speech of God, preparing the reader for the specific message that follows. It underscores the clarity and directness with which God communicates His will. In the biblical context, when God speaks, it demands attention and obedience, reminding us of the authority and trustworthiness of His declarations. This sets the stage for the prophetic announcement that follows, inviting us to listen and respond to God's voice in our own lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, Ezekiel was among the exiles in Babylon. His prophecies often included visions and symbolic actions.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His messages to His people through prophets like Ezekiel.

3. The Eleventh Year
This refers to the eleventh year of King Jehoiachin's exile, which helps to date the prophecy historically.

4. The First Day of the Month
This specific timing indicates the precision and importance of the message being delivered.

5. The Word of the LORD
This phrase signifies divine revelation, emphasizing that the message is not from Ezekiel himself but from God.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over history is evident as He speaks through Ezekiel at a specific time. This reminds us that God is sovereign over all events and timelines.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are God's messengers, tasked with delivering His word to the people. This underscores the importance of listening to and heeding God's messages today, as revealed in Scripture.

The Importance of Timing
The precise dating of the prophecy highlights the importance of God's timing. We are reminded to trust in God's perfect timing in our own lives.

Judgment and Accountability
The prophecy against Tyre, which follows this verse, serves as a reminder that nations and individuals are accountable to God. We should live with an awareness of our accountability to Him.

The Faithfulness of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecies, such as those against Tyre, demonstrates the faithfulness and reliability of God's word. We can trust His promises and warnings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Ezekiel's prophecy enhance our comprehension of its message?

2. In what ways does the sovereignty of God, as seen in the precise timing of this prophecy, impact your trust in His plans for your life?

3. How can we discern and respond to God's messages in our lives today, similar to how the people were expected to respond to the prophets?

4. What lessons can we learn from the judgment of Tyre that apply to our personal and communal accountability before God?

5. How does the faithfulness of God's word, as demonstrated in fulfilled prophecies, encourage you in your daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25
This chapter provides context for the Babylonian exile and the judgment against nations, including Tyre, which is the subject of Ezekiel 26.

Isaiah 23
Isaiah also prophesies against Tyre, providing a broader biblical context for understanding God's judgment on this city.

2 Kings 24
This passage details the exile of Jehoiachin, providing historical context for the timing of Ezekiel's prophecy.