Ezekiel 11:14

Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

Then the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies a divine communication, a hallmark of prophetic literature. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force. The "word of the LORD" is a recurring theme in Ezekiel, emphasizing the authority and power of God's message. Historically, prophets were seen as mouthpieces of God, and this phrase underscores the divine origin of Ezekiel's message, affirming its truth and reliability.

came to me
The phrase indicates a personal and direct revelation to Ezekiel. The Hebrew verb "hayah" (came) suggests an occurrence or event, highlighting the immediacy and personal nature of God's communication. This underscores the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where God chooses specific individuals to convey His will. It also reflects the historical context of the Babylonian exile, where God continued to speak to His people through Ezekiel, despite their physical separation from the temple in Jerusalem.

saying
This word introduces the content of God's message. In Hebrew, "amar" (saying) is often used to denote the beginning of a divine speech. It prepares the reader for the authoritative and instructive nature of what follows. The use of "saying" here is a reminder of the prophetic tradition where God's words are not just for information but for transformation, calling the people to repentance and faithfulness. It sets the stage for the unfolding of God's plans and purposes, which are central to the prophetic mission of Ezekiel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's messages and visions. His role is to convey God's words to the Israelites in exile.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His will and plans through His prophets. In this context, He is speaking directly to Ezekiel.

3. The Exile
The historical context of this passage is the Babylonian exile, where many Israelites were taken captive and removed from their homeland.

4. Jerusalem
The city that is central to the Israelites' identity and faith, which has been under threat and partially destroyed due to the people's disobedience.

5. The Remnant
Refers to the faithful few among the Israelites who remain true to God despite the widespread unfaithfulness and judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Communication
God speaks to His people through His chosen messengers. We should be attentive to how God communicates with us today through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

Hope in Exile
Even in times of judgment and exile, God provides hope and a promise of restoration. We can trust in God's faithfulness during our own times of trial.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets like Ezekiel are called to deliver God's messages, even when they are difficult. We are also called to speak truth in love, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Faithfulness of the Remnant
God always preserves a faithful remnant. We should strive to be part of that remnant, remaining faithful to God amidst a culture that may not honor Him.

God's Sovereignty
God's plans and purposes will prevail, regardless of human actions. We can find peace in His sovereignty and trust His ultimate plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet during the exile inform our understanding of God's communication with His people today?

2. In what ways can we find hope in God's promises during our own "exile" experiences or difficult times?

3. How can we apply the concept of being a faithful remnant in our current cultural context?

4. What are some ways we can discern and respond to God's messages in our lives, similar to how Ezekiel responded to God's word?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in the context of Ezekiel 11:14 help us trust Him more fully in our personal circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29
This chapter also addresses the exiles in Babylon, offering them hope and a future, similar to the messages of restoration found in Ezekiel.

Isaiah 11
Speaks of a remnant that will return, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promises despite Israel's unfaithfulness.

Romans 11
Paul discusses the concept of a remnant chosen by grace, connecting the Old Testament theme to the New Testament understanding of God's faithfulness.