Ezekiel 11:15

"Son of man, your brothers--your relatives, your fellow exiles, and the whole house of Israel--are those of whom the people of Jerusalem have said, 'They are far away from the LORD; this land has been given to us as a possession.'

Study Bible

Son of man
This phrase is a frequent address to Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people. In Hebrew, "ben adam" underscores the prophet's connection to mankind, highlighting his role as a mediator between God and Israel. It reminds us of the humility required in serving God and the importance of being grounded in the human experience while delivering divine messages.

your brothers
The term "brothers" here refers to fellow Israelites, emphasizing kinship and shared identity. In the Hebrew context, "ach" denotes not just familial ties but also a covenantal relationship among the people of Israel. This phrase calls to mind the unity and collective responsibility of the Israelites, urging them to remember their shared heritage and obligations under God's covenant.

your kinsmen
This phrase extends the idea of brotherhood to include a broader sense of community and tribal affiliation. The Hebrew word "go'el" can imply a redeemer or protector within the family or clan, suggesting a duty to support and uphold one another. It reflects the social structure of ancient Israel, where kinship bonds were crucial for survival and maintaining the covenant with God.

the whole house of Israel
This phrase encompasses all the tribes of Israel, uniting them under a single identity as God's chosen people. It serves as a reminder of the collective destiny and purpose of the nation. Historically, the "house of Israel" signifies the entire community bound by the laws and promises given to their ancestors, reinforcing the idea of a shared spiritual and national mission.

those of whom the people of Jerusalem have said
This part of the verse highlights the division and tension between the exiles and those remaining in Jerusalem. The phrase points to the arrogance and false security of the Jerusalemites, who believed themselves to be the true inheritors of God's promises. It serves as a caution against pride and the assumption that physical proximity to sacred spaces equates to spiritual favor.

They are far from the LORD
This statement reflects the misguided belief that physical distance from the temple equates to spiritual distance from God. In Hebrew thought, God's presence is not confined to a location but is accessible to all who seek Him with a sincere heart. This phrase challenges the notion that God's favor is limited to a specific place, emphasizing instead the importance of faithfulness and obedience.

this land has been given to us as a possession
Here, the Jerusalemites claim exclusive rights to the land, ignoring the broader covenantal promises made to all of Israel. The Hebrew word "yerushah" implies an inheritance, a gift from God that comes with responsibilities. This phrase serves as a reminder that the land is a divine gift contingent upon the people's faithfulness to God's commandments, and not a guarantee based on mere occupation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The Exiles
The Israelites who were taken captive and relocated to Babylon, including Ezekiel himself.

3. The People of Jerusalem
Those who remained in Jerusalem and believed they were the rightful heirs of the land.

4. The Whole House of Israel
Refers to the entire nation of Israel, both those in exile and those remaining in the land.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through Ezekiel to address the misconceptions of His people.

Teaching Points

God's Presence in Exile
Despite physical distance, God remains with His people. The exiles are not abandoned but are part of His divine plan.

Misplaced Confidence
Those in Jerusalem wrongly assumed that physical proximity to the temple equated to spiritual favor. True relationship with God is not about location but obedience and faithfulness.

The Remnant Principle
God often works through a faithful remnant. The exiles, though seemingly disadvantaged, are part of God's redemptive plan.

Hope in God's Promises
Even in difficult circumstances, believers can trust in God's promises and His ultimate plan for restoration and blessing.

Community and Unity
The division between the exiles and those in Jerusalem serves as a reminder of the importance of unity among God's people, regardless of circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel 11:15 challenge the notion that physical proximity to religious symbols or places equates to spiritual favor?

2. In what ways can we see the principle of the faithful remnant at work in our own lives or communities today?

3. How can the experiences of the exiles in Babylon encourage us when we feel distant from God or His promises?

4. What are some modern-day "exiles" or situations where believers might feel far from God, and how can this passage offer hope?

5. How can we foster unity among believers who may feel divided by circumstances, much like the exiles and those in Jerusalem?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 24
This chapter discusses the vision of the good and bad figs, symbolizing the exiles and those remaining in Jerusalem, respectively. It highlights God's favor towards the exiles.

Psalm 137
Expresses the lament of the exiles in Babylon, longing for Jerusalem and feeling distant from God.

Isaiah 49:14-16
Addresses the feeling of abandonment by God, reassuring that He has not forgotten His people.

Romans 11:1-5
Paul speaks about the remnant of Israel, emphasizing that God has not rejected His people, even when they feel distant.