Therefore prophesy against them; prophesy, O son of man!" Therefore prophesy against themThe phrase "Therefore prophesy against them" is a direct command from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for "prophesy" is "נָבָא" (naba), which means to speak or sing by inspiration, often with the implication of foretelling future events. In the context of Ezekiel, this is not merely a prediction but a divine message that carries the authority and judgment of God. The use of "against them" indicates that the prophecy is not one of comfort or hope, but of confrontation and warning. Historically, this is set during a time when the leaders of Israel were leading the people astray, and God was using Ezekiel to call them to account. This highlights the role of a prophet as one who must sometimes deliver difficult truths, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands even when they are challenging. prophesy, son of man Persons / Places / Events 1. EzekielA prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites. 2. The Elders of Israel Leaders of the people who were often involved in idolatry and leading the nation astray. 3. Jerusalem The city where the elders and people of Israel were committing abominations, leading to God's judgment. 4. The Spirit of the Lord The divine presence that empowers Ezekiel to prophesy and deliver God's message. 5. The Exile The period when the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon, a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies. Teaching Points The Role of the ProphetProphets are called to speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or met with resistance. The prophetic message often includes both judgment and hope, calling people to repentance. The Responsibility of Leadership Leaders are accountable to God for their actions and influence over others. Spiritual leaders must guide people according to God's word, not personal or cultural preferences. The Consequences of Idolatry Idolatry leads to spiritual and moral decay, inviting God's judgment. True worship requires exclusive devotion to God, rejecting all forms of idolatry. The Empowerment of the Spirit The Holy Spirit empowers believers to fulfill God's calling, providing strength and courage. Dependence on the Spirit is essential for effective ministry and witness. The Call to Repentance God's judgment is an invitation to repentance and restoration. Repentance involves turning away from sin and returning to God with a sincere heart. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet challenge our understanding of speaking truth in today's world?2. In what ways can spiritual leaders today ensure they are leading according to God's word rather than cultural trends? 3. What are some modern forms of idolatry that can distract us from true worship of God? 4. How can we rely on the Holy Spirit for empowerment in our daily lives and ministries? 5. What steps can we take to cultivate a heart of repentance and align ourselves with God's will? Connections to Other Scriptures Jeremiah 1:9-10Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah is called to prophesy against nations and kingdoms, highlighting the role of prophets in declaring God's judgment. Isaiah 6:8-9 Isaiah's commission to speak to a rebellious people parallels Ezekiel's mission, emphasizing the theme of prophetic calling. Acts 7:51-53 Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin reflects the resistance of Israel's leaders to God's prophets, similar to the elders in Ezekiel's time. Revelation 10:11 John's call to prophesy again to many peoples, nations, and kings echoes the ongoing need for prophetic voices.
People Azur, Azzur, Benaiah, Ezekiel, Jaazaniah, PelatiahPlaces Chaldea, Chebar, JerusalemTopics Cause, O, Prophesy, ProphetDictionary of Bible Themes Ezekiel 11:1-12Library A Little SanctuaryThe Lord hears the unkind speeches of the prosperous when they speak bitterly of those who are plunged in adversity. Read the context--"Son of man, thy brethren, even thy brethren, the men of thy kindred, and all the house of Israel wholly, are they unto whom the inhabitants of Jerusalem have said, Get you far from the Lord: unto us is this land given in possession." This unbrotherly language moved the Lord to send the prophet Ezekiel with good and profitable words to the children of the captivity. … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 34: 1888 A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals. An Appendix to the Beatitudes Blasphemous Accusations of the Jews. Ezekiel Links Ezekiel 11:4 NIVEzekiel 11:4 NLT Ezekiel 11:4 ESV Ezekiel 11:4 NASB Ezekiel 11:4 KJV Ezekiel 11:4 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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