Ezekiel 11:2

And the LORD said to me, "Son of man, these are the men who plot evil and give wicked counsel in this city.

Study Bible

And the LORD said to me
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication between God and the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew root for "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, signifying His eternal and unchanging nature. This divine communication underscores the authority and authenticity of the message. In the historical context, prophets were seen as God's mouthpieces, and this phrase reassures the reader of the divine origin of the prophecy.

Son of man
This title, "Son of man," is used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, highlighting the humanity of the prophet in contrast to the divine nature of God. The Hebrew term "ben adam" literally means "son of Adam," reminding Ezekiel of his human frailty and dependence on God. It also serves to connect Ezekiel with the people he is prophesying to, as he shares in their human experience and limitations.

these are the men
The phrase identifies specific individuals within the community. In the context of Ezekiel's time, these men were likely leaders or influential figures in Jerusalem. The specificity of "these" indicates that God is aware of the actions and intentions of individuals, not just the collective nation. This serves as a reminder of God's omniscience and His concern for justice and righteousness at both personal and communal levels.

who are plotting evil
The Hebrew root for "plotting" is "chashab," which can mean to think, plan, or devise. This indicates a deliberate and intentional act of devising plans that are contrary to God's will. The term "evil" (Hebrew "ra") encompasses moral wickedness and actions that lead to harm and destruction. Historically, this plotting could refer to political schemes or idolatrous practices that were prevalent in Jerusalem at the time.

and giving wicked counsel
The phrase "giving wicked counsel" suggests the dissemination of advice or guidance that leads others away from God's commandments. The Hebrew word for "wicked" is "ra," the same as for "evil," reinforcing the moral corruption of their advice. "Counsel" (Hebrew "etsah") implies guidance or strategy, often associated with leadership. In the scriptural context, this reflects the failure of Jerusalem's leaders to guide the people in righteousness, instead leading them into further sin and rebellion against God.

in this city
The phrase "in this city" refers specifically to Jerusalem, the center of religious and political life for the Israelites. Jerusalem held a significant place in God's covenant with Israel, being the location of the Temple and the symbol of God's presence among His people. The mention of the city highlights the gravity of the leaders' actions, as their wickedness defiles a place meant to be holy and set apart for God. Historically, this sets the stage for the impending judgment and exile, as the city's corruption has reached a point of no return.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The LORD
The sovereign God of Israel, who communicates directly with Ezekiel, revealing the spiritual and moral state of the people and their leaders.

3. The Men
These are the leaders or elders of Israel who are accused of plotting evil and giving wicked counsel, leading the people astray.

4. The City
Refers to Jerusalem, the center of Jewish worship and identity, which is under threat due to the people's disobedience and the leaders' corruption.

5. Plotting Evil and Giving Wicked Counsel
This describes the actions of the leaders who are steering the people away from God's commandments, contributing to the city's impending judgment.

Teaching Points

The Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders are accountable to God for their influence and guidance. They must seek wisdom and counsel from God rather than their own understanding.

The Consequences of Wicked Counsel
Giving and following ungodly advice leads to destruction and judgment. It is crucial to discern and reject counsel that contradicts God's Word.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets like Ezekiel are called to speak truth to power, even when it is unpopular. Believers today are also called to stand for truth in a world that often rejects it.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God sees the actions and intentions of all, and He will hold accountable those who lead others astray. Trust in His justice and righteousness.

Repentance and Restoration
While judgment is pronounced, there is always an opportunity for repentance and turning back to God. This is a call to examine our own lives and seek His forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of leadership in Ezekiel 11:2 compare to the responsibilities of leaders in the church today?

2. What are some modern examples of "wicked counsel" that believers should be wary of, and how can we discern them?

3. In what ways can we, like Ezekiel, be voices of truth in our communities, and what challenges might we face?

4. How does understanding God's sovereignty and justice in Ezekiel 11:2 provide comfort and assurance in times of moral and spiritual decline?

5. Reflect on a time when you followed ungodly advice. What were the consequences, and how did you find your way back to God's path?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 5:31
This verse speaks of prophets prophesying falsely and priests ruling by their own authority, similar to the wicked counsel given by the leaders in Ezekiel.

Isaiah 3:12
Highlights the consequences of poor leadership, where those who lead the people cause them to err, paralleling the situation in Ezekiel.

Micah 3:11
Describes leaders who judge for a bribe and prophets who divine for money, reflecting the corruption and wicked counsel in Ezekiel 11:2.