Ezekiel 7:26

Disaster upon disaster will come, and rumor after rumor. Then they will seek a vision from a prophet, but instruction from the priests will perish, as will counsel from the elders.

Study Bible

Disaster upon disaster will come, and rumor after rumor.
This phrase emphasizes the relentless and compounding nature of the calamities that will befall the people. In the context of Ezekiel's prophecy, this refers to the impending judgment on Jerusalem and Judah due to their persistent idolatry and rebellion against God. Historically, this period was marked by the Babylonian invasions, which brought destruction and chaos. The repetition of disasters and rumors reflects the panic and uncertainty that would grip the people as they faced the consequences of their actions. This echoes the warnings found in Leviticus 26:18-28, where God outlines the escalating punishments for disobedience.

Then they will seek a vision from a prophet,
In times of crisis, the people would turn to prophets for divine guidance and reassurance. However, during this period, genuine prophetic visions were scarce due to the people's hardened hearts and the false prophets who misled them. This reflects the broader biblical theme of seeking God only in times of trouble, as seen in Amos 8:11-12, where a famine of hearing the words of the Lord is prophesied. The people's desperation for a prophetic vision underscores their spiritual bankruptcy and the consequences of ignoring God's warnings.

but instruction from the priests will perish,
The priests were responsible for teaching the Law and guiding the people in worship and moral conduct. The perishing of instruction signifies a breakdown in religious and moral order, as the priests themselves were often corrupt or negligent, as seen in Malachi 2:7-8. This loss of priestly guidance highlights the failure of religious leaders to uphold God's standards, contributing to the nation's downfall. It also points to the need for a perfect priest, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who provides eternal instruction and mediation (Hebrews 7:23-28).

as will counsel from the elders.
Elders in Israelite society were respected leaders and decision-makers, often providing wisdom and guidance based on experience and tradition. The loss of their counsel indicates a societal collapse, where even the most trusted sources of wisdom are rendered ineffective. This reflects the broader theme of divine judgment leading to confusion and disarray, as seen in Isaiah 3:1-3. The absence of wise counsel foreshadows the coming of Christ, who is the embodiment of divine wisdom and the ultimate counselor (Isaiah 9:6).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel prophesied, experiencing God's judgment due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

3. Prophets, Priests, and Elders
Key religious and community leaders in Israel who were expected to provide guidance and wisdom to the people.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period during which the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a central context for Ezekiel's prophecies.

5. Disaster and Rumor
Represents the chaos and uncertainty that would befall Israel as a result of their rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Persistent rebellion against God leads to a withdrawal of His guidance and protection.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
Spiritual leaders are crucial for providing guidance, but their effectiveness is nullified when they stray from God's truth.

The Importance of Seeking God
In times of crisis, turning to God and His Word is essential for true wisdom and direction.

The Danger of Spiritual Deception
False teachings and rumors can lead people astray, emphasizing the need for discernment and adherence to Scripture.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgments are just and serve as a call to repentance and return to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the absence of true guidance from prophets, priests, and elders in Ezekiel 7:26 reflect the spiritual state of Israel?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are receiving true spiritual guidance today, and how does this relate to the Berean approach in Acts 17:11?

3. How can the themes of disaster and rumor in Ezekiel 7:26 be seen in today's world, and what biblical principles can help us navigate such times?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "famine" of hearing God's Word. What steps did you take to reconnect with Him?

5. How can the church today learn from the failures of Israel's leaders in Ezekiel 7:26 to better serve their communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 14:14
This passage also speaks of false prophets and the absence of true divine guidance, highlighting the theme of spiritual deception and judgment.

Amos 8:11-12
Amos prophesies a famine of hearing the words of the Lord, similar to the withdrawal of divine guidance in Ezekiel 7:26.

Proverbs 11:14
Emphasizes the importance of wise counsel, contrasting the absence of guidance in Ezekiel 7:26.

2 Chronicles 36:15-16
Chronicles the repeated rejection of God's messengers by Israel, leading to judgment.