Ezekiel 13:16

those prophets of Israel who prophesied to Jerusalem and saw a vision of peace for her when there was no peace, declares the Lord GOD.'

Study Bible

those prophets of Israel
This phrase refers to individuals who claimed to speak on behalf of God to the nation of Israel. In the Hebrew context, the word for "prophets" is "נְבִיאִים" (nevi'im), which traditionally denotes those who are divinely inspired to deliver messages from God. Historically, prophets held a significant role in guiding the spiritual and moral direction of Israel. However, in this context, these prophets are false, misleading the people with messages not from God. Their false prophecies contributed to the spiritual decline of Israel, as they failed to call the people to repentance and truth.

who prophesied to Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the heart of Israel, was not just a political capital but also a spiritual center. The prophets' messages were directed to this city, which held the Temple, the symbol of God's presence among His people. The Hebrew root for "prophesied" is "נָבָא" (naba), meaning to speak or sing by inspiration. However, these prophets were not inspired by God but by their own desires or deceitful spirits. Their false assurances to Jerusalem were particularly grievous because they gave a false sense of security to the people, leading them away from genuine repentance and reliance on God.

and saw visions of peace for her
The phrase "visions of peace" is significant because it highlights the false hope these prophets offered. The Hebrew word for "visions" is "חָזוֹן" (chazon), which implies a divine revelation or insight. However, these visions were not from God. The word for "peace" is "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), a comprehensive term that encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also wholeness, prosperity, and well-being. The false prophets promised shalom when there was none, misleading the people into complacency and ignoring the impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness.

when there was no peace
This phrase underscores the reality that contradicted the false prophets' messages. The absence of peace was due to the people's rebellion against God and their failure to uphold His covenant. Historically, this period was marked by political instability and impending judgment from foreign powers like Babylon. The false assurance of peace was a dangerous lie that prevented the people from recognizing their need for repentance and turning back to God.

declares the Lord GOD
This authoritative conclusion emphasizes that the message comes from "the Lord GOD," translated from "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh) in Hebrew. This dual title underscores God's sovereignty and covenantal relationship with Israel. "Adonai" signifies His lordship and authority, while "Yahweh" is His personal, covenant name, reminding the people of His faithfulness and holiness. The declaration serves as a divine stamp of truth, contrasting the falsehoods of the prophets. It is a call to heed God's true word and recognize His ultimate authority over the affairs of nations and individuals.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, Ezekiel was called to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

2. False Prophets
These were individuals in Israel who claimed to speak for God but delivered false messages, particularly of peace, when God had not spoken such things.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, which was under threat and eventually fell to Babylon due to the people's disobedience and the false assurances of peace.

4. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and true God of Israel, who speaks through His prophets and judges falsehood.

5. Visions of Peace
The false assurances given by the prophets, which contradicted the reality of impending judgment due to the nation's sin.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Prophecy
Believers must exercise discernment and test the spirits to ensure that messages claiming to be from God align with Scripture.

The Danger of False Assurance
False promises of peace can lead to complacency and unpreparedness for God's true plans. We must seek God's truth rather than comforting lies.

The Role of True Prophets
True prophets speak God's word faithfully, even when it is unpopular or difficult. We should value and heed messages that align with biblical truth.

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
God is sovereign and His plans will prevail. False messages cannot thwart His purposes, and He will hold false prophets accountable.

Peace through Obedience
True peace comes from obedience to God and alignment with His will, not from false assurances or human desires.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we discern between true and false messages that claim to be from God in today's context?

2. What are some modern examples of "visions of peace" that might lead believers astray, and how can we guard against them?

3. How does understanding the historical context of Ezekiel's message to Jerusalem help us apply this passage to our lives today?

4. In what ways can we ensure that our hope and peace are grounded in God's truth rather than in human assurances?

5. How do the warnings against false prophets in Ezekiel 13:16 relate to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament about false teachers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 6:14
This verse also addresses false prophets who declare peace when there is no peace, highlighting the consistent message of warning against false assurances.

Matthew 7:15
Jesus warns about false prophets who come in sheep's clothing, emphasizing the need for discernment.

1 Thessalonians 5:3
Paul speaks of a false sense of peace and security before sudden destruction, paralleling the false prophets' message in Ezekiel's time.