And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, And the word of the LORD came to me, saying,This phrase introduces a divine revelation to the prophet Ezekiel, emphasizing the direct communication from God. The phrase "the word of the LORD" is a common biblical expression indicating a message from God, often used by prophets to assert the divine origin of their message. This underscores the authority and authenticity of the prophecy. In the context of Ezekiel, this communication is part of a series of visions and messages given to him during the Babylonian exile, around 593-571 BC. The phrase "came to me" highlights the personal nature of the revelation, indicating that Ezekiel is the chosen vessel for this message. This is consistent with the role of prophets in the Old Testament, who were often called to deliver God's messages to His people, sometimes involving warnings of judgment or calls to repentance. The phrase "saying" introduces the content of the message, which in this chapter, is a pronouncement of impending judgment on Israel due to their persistent idolatry and rebellion against God. This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where disobedience leads to divine discipline. The prophetic nature of this message also points forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, who is the Word made flesh, bringing both judgment and salvation. Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's message. His role is to convey God's warnings and promises to the Israelites. 2. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant God of Israel, who communicates directly with Ezekiel, delivering messages of judgment and hope. 3. Israel The nation to whom the message is directed. At this time, they are experiencing the consequences of their disobedience and idolatry. 4. Babylonian Exile The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesies. The Israelites are in captivity due to their persistent rebellion against God. 5. Prophetic Revelation The event of God speaking to Ezekiel, which is a common occurrence in the prophetic books, emphasizing the divine origin of the message. Teaching Points The Authority of God's WordGod's word is authoritative and comes directly from Him. As believers, we must recognize the Bible as the ultimate authority in our lives. The Role of the Prophet Prophets are chosen by God to deliver His messages. We should respect and heed the teachings of the prophets as recorded in Scripture. The Consequences of Disobedience Israel's exile serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God. We must examine our lives for areas of disobedience and seek repentance. God's Communication with His People God desires to communicate with His people, often through His word. We should be attentive and responsive to His guidance. Hope Amidst Judgment Even in messages of judgment, there is hope for restoration. We can trust in God's faithfulness and His plans for redemption. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the role of Ezekiel as a prophet inform our understanding of how God communicates with His people today?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are attentive to God's word and not fall into the same patterns of disobedience as Israel? 3. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our interpretation of Ezekiel's message? 4. What are some modern-day "idols" that might lead us away from God, and how can we guard against them? 5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's promises, even when facing difficult circumstances or messages of judgment? Connections to Other Scriptures Jeremiah 1:4-5Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah receives the word of the LORD, highlighting the calling and commissioning of prophets. Isaiah 6:8-9 Isaiah's commission parallels Ezekiel's, as both are called to deliver difficult messages to a rebellious people. 2 Kings 24:10-16 Provides historical context for the Babylonian exile, explaining why the Israelites are in captivity. Amos 3:7 Emphasizes that God reveals His plans to His prophets, reinforcing the divine authority behind Ezekiel's message.
People EzekielPlaces JerusalemTopics Ground, Moreover, Saying, ThusDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 6:14 1265 hand of God Library Motives to Holy MourningLet me exhort Christians to holy mourning. I now persuade to such a mourning as will prepare the soul for blessedness. Oh that our hearts were spiritual limbecs, distilling the water of holy tears! Christ's doves weep. They that escape shall be like doves of the valleys, all of them mourning, every one for his iniquity' (Ezekiel 7:16). There are several divine motives to holy mourning: 1 Tears cannot be put to a better use. If you weep for outward losses, you lose your tears. It is like a shower … Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Healing a Demoniac in a Synagogue. The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs "And There is None that Calleth Upon Thy Name, that Stirreth up Himself to Take Hold on Thee," Blessed are they that Mourn "Thou Shall Keep Him in Perfect Peace, Whose Mind is Stayed on Thee, Because He Trusteth in Thee. " There is a Blessedness in Reversion Ezekiel Links Ezekiel 7:1 NIVEzekiel 7:1 NLT Ezekiel 7:1 ESV Ezekiel 7:1 NASB Ezekiel 7:1 KJV Ezekiel 7:1 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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