Ezekiel 11:25

I told the exiles everything the LORD had shown me.

Study Bible

And I told
The phrase "And I told" signifies the act of communication and obedience. In the Hebrew context, the word used here is "וָאַגִּ֣ד" (va'agged), which implies a declaration or a recounting. Ezekiel, as a prophet, is fulfilling his divine duty to relay God's messages to the people. This act of telling is not just a simple narration but a faithful transmission of divine revelation, emphasizing the importance of prophets as God's mouthpieces.

the exiles
The term "the exiles" refers to the Israelites who were taken captive and relocated to Babylon. Historically, this was a period of great turmoil and despair for the Jewish people, as they were removed from their homeland and temple. Theologically, the exile is seen as a consequence of Israel's disobedience, yet it also serves as a period of purification and hope for eventual restoration. Ezekiel's audience is thus a community in need of encouragement and guidance.

everything
The word "everything" underscores the completeness and thoroughness of Ezekiel's message. In Hebrew, "כָּל־הַדְּבָרִ֔ים" (kol-hadvarim) suggests that nothing was omitted. This reflects the integrity and faithfulness of Ezekiel as a prophet, ensuring that the exiles received the full counsel of God. It also highlights the comprehensive nature of God's revelation, which addresses all aspects of life and faith.

the LORD
"The LORD" is the English rendering of the Hebrew "יְהוָ֖ה" (YHWH), the sacred and covenantal name of God. This name signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. In the context of Ezekiel, it reassures the exiles of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people, even in their time of distress.

had shown me
The phrase "had shown me" indicates a divine revelation or vision given to Ezekiel. The Hebrew "הֶרְאָ֥ה" (her'ah) implies a supernatural insight or unveiling. This highlights the prophetic experience as one of seeing beyond the natural realm into the divine purposes of God. For the exiles, this revelation is a source of hope and direction, affirming that God is actively involved in their situation and has a plan for their future.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the central figure in this passage. He is tasked with conveying God's messages to the Israelites in exile.

2. The Exiles
The Israelites who were taken captive to Babylon. They represent the audience to whom Ezekiel relays God's revelations.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who reveals His will and plans to Ezekiel through visions and prophecies.

4. Babylon
The place of exile for the Israelites, where Ezekiel is delivering his message.

5. Visions
The divine revelations given to Ezekiel, which he communicates to the exiles.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Communication
Ezekiel's example teaches us the importance of faithfully communicating God's truth to others, regardless of the circumstances.

Responsibility of the Messenger
As believers, we are called to be messengers of God's word, sharing His revelations with those around us.

God's Sovereignty in Exile
Even in difficult situations, such as exile, God remains sovereign and continues to communicate with His people.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecy serves to guide, warn, and encourage God's people, reminding them of His plans and purposes.

Community and Accountability
Sharing God's revelations with others fosters community and accountability among believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet and watchman inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are faithfully communicating God's truth to those around us?

3. How does the context of exile in Babylon shape the message Ezekiel delivers to the Israelites?

4. What can we learn from Ezekiel about the importance of community and accountability in sharing God's revelations?

5. How do the themes of prophecy and divine revelation in Ezekiel 11:25 connect with the broader account of God's redemptive plan in the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 3:17-21
This passage establishes Ezekiel's role as a watchman for Israel, responsible for warning the people based on God's revelations.

Jeremiah 29:4-7
Jeremiah's letter to the exiles in Babylon provides context for the situation of the exiles and God's instructions for them during their captivity.

Daniel 9:2
Daniel's understanding of the exile period through the writings of Jeremiah shows the interconnectedness of prophetic messages during the exile.

Acts 20:27
Paul's commitment to declaring the whole counsel of God parallels Ezekiel's responsibility to communicate all that God has shown him.