Ezekiel 12:28

Therefore tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: 'None of My words will be delayed any longer. The message I speak will be fulfilled, declares the Lord GOD.'"

Study Bible

Therefore tell them
This phrase serves as a directive from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for "tell" is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to say or declare. This command underscores the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, emphasizing the importance of delivering God's message to the people. In the historical context, Ezekiel was addressing the Israelites in exile, who were skeptical of the prophecies concerning their future. This phrase highlights the urgency and authority with which God's message must be communicated.

that this is what the Lord GOD says
The phrase establishes the divine origin of the message. "Lord GOD" in Hebrew is "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh), a title that emphasizes both the sovereignty and the covenantal relationship of God with His people. This declaration assures the audience that the message is not from Ezekiel himself but from the Almighty, reinforcing the seriousness and reliability of the prophecy.

‘None of My words will be delayed any longer
This part of the verse addresses the skepticism among the Israelites regarding the fulfillment of God's promises and warnings. The Hebrew word for "delayed" is "מָשַׁךְ" (mashak), which means to draw out or prolong. Historically, the Israelites had experienced a period of waiting and uncertainty, leading to doubt. This assurance from God serves as a reminder of His faithfulness and the certainty of His timing, encouraging believers to trust in His divine plan.

The message I speak will be fulfilled
Here, the focus is on the certainty of God's word coming to pass. The Hebrew root for "fulfilled" is "בּוֹא" (bo), meaning to come or to happen. This promise is a testament to God's omnipotence and the inevitability of His will. In the broader scriptural context, it reflects the theme of prophetic fulfillment that runs throughout the Bible, affirming that God's purposes will always be accomplished.

declares the Lord GOD
The repetition of "declares the Lord GOD" at the end of the verse serves to reinforce the authority and finality of the message. The Hebrew word for "declares" is "נְאֻם" (ne'um), which is often used in prophetic literature to denote a solemn pronouncement. This closing statement acts as a divine seal on the prophecy, assuring the audience of its truth and reliability. It is a call to faith and obedience, reminding believers of the unchanging nature of God's word and His ultimate control over history.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
The people of God who were in exile in Babylon due to their disobedience and idolatry.

3. Babylon
The place of exile for the Israelites, representing a period of judgment and purification.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God who speaks through His prophets.

5. Prophetic Fulfillment
The event of God's words coming to pass, emphasizing His faithfulness and sovereignty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God's words are certain and will come to pass. We can trust in His promises and timing.

The Importance of Patience and Trust
Even when it seems like God's promises are delayed, we must remain patient and trust in His perfect timing.

The Role of Prophecy in Encouragement and Warning
Prophecies serve both to encourage the faithful and to warn those who are straying. We should heed God's messages and align our lives accordingly.

The Urgency of Obedience
Knowing that God's words will be fulfilled should prompt us to live in obedience and readiness for His plans.

The Assurance of God's Plan
In times of uncertainty, we can find peace in knowing that God's plan is unfolding exactly as He intends.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in Ezekiel 12:28 impact your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can you apply the assurance of God's fulfilled promises to your personal life challenges?

3. How does the theme of delayed fulfillment in Ezekiel 12:28 relate to the concept of waiting on God's timing in other areas of your life?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to remain obedient and faithful while waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled?

5. How can you use the certainty of God's word to encourage others who may be struggling with doubt or impatience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 55:11
This verse highlights the certainty and effectiveness of God's word, similar to Ezekiel 12:28, where God assures that His words will not be delayed.

Habakkuk 2:3
This passage speaks about the appointed time for God's vision to be fulfilled, reinforcing the theme of divine timing and fulfillment.

2 Peter 3:9
This New Testament verse discusses God's patience and the eventual fulfillment of His promises, aligning with the assurance given in Ezekiel 12:28.