Ezekiel 14:21

For this is what the Lord GOD says: 'How much worse will it be when I send against Jerusalem My four dire judgments--sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague--in order to cut off from it both man and beast?

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase establishes the authority and divine origin of the message. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing God's sovereignty and covenant relationship with Israel. It is a reminder that the words to follow are not merely human opinions but divine declarations, carrying the weight and authority of the Creator Himself.

How much worse will it be when I send against Jerusalem
The phrase "how much worse" indicates a comparison to previous judgments or calamities. It suggests an escalation in severity, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The historical context here is crucial; Jerusalem, the heart of Israel, is facing divine judgment due to persistent idolatry and rebellion. The phrase "I send" highlights God's active role in the unfolding events, affirming His control over history and His righteous judgment.

My four dreadful judgments
The "four dreadful judgments" refer to specific calamities that God uses as instruments of judgment. In the Hebrew context, the number four often symbolizes completeness or universality. These judgments are comprehensive, affecting all aspects of life. The term "dreadful" conveys the fear and awe these judgments inspire, reflecting their severity and the seriousness of sin.

sword and famine and wild beasts and plague
Each of these judgments has a distinct impact. The "sword" represents war and violence, a common consequence of national sin. "Famine" indicates a breakdown in agricultural productivity, often seen as a direct result of divine displeasure. "Wild beasts" symbolize chaos and the breakdown of societal order, as nature itself turns hostile. "Plague" suggests disease and pestilence, a frequent tool of divine judgment in the ancient world. Together, these judgments cover a range of afflictions, demonstrating the totality of God's response to sin.

to cut off man and beast from it!
The phrase "to cut off" implies a decisive and complete removal, indicating the severity of the judgment. The inclusion of both "man and beast" highlights the comprehensive nature of the punishment, affecting all living creatures within Jerusalem. This reflects the interconnectedness of creation and the far-reaching consequences of human sin. The historical and scriptural context reminds us of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where blessings and curses are contingent upon obedience and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the mouthpiece of God, delivering messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. The Lord GOD
The sovereign deity of Israel, Yahweh, who communicates His will and judgments through the prophet Ezekiel.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant in Jewish history and faith, and the focal point of God's judgment due to the people's idolatry and unfaithfulness.

4. Four Dreadful Judgments
These are the sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague, representing comprehensive divine judgment on a rebellious nation.

5. Man and Beast
The inhabitants of Jerusalem, both human and animal, who are subject to God's judgments due to the pervasive sin in the land.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has severe consequences, and God's judgments are a response to persistent rebellion. We must take sin seriously and seek repentance.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign and just in His judgments. Understanding His sovereignty helps us trust His plans, even when they involve discipline.

The Call to Repentance
God's warnings are opportunities for repentance. We should heed His warnings and turn back to Him with sincere hearts.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Ezekiel are vital in communicating God's truth. We should value and listen to those who faithfully teach God's Word today.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While judgment is severe, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and hope for those who turn to Him. We should hold onto this hope in times of trial.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the four judgments in Ezekiel 14:21 reflect the seriousness of sin and its consequences in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and justice in the judgments described in Ezekiel 14:21, and how does this affect our trust in Him?

3. How do the warnings in Ezekiel 14:21 serve as a call to repentance for us personally and as a community of believers?

4. What role do modern-day "prophets" or spiritual leaders play in guiding us back to God's truth, and how can we discern their messages?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's promises of restoration, even when facing His discipline or judgment in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28
These chapters outline the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including similar judgments of sword, famine, and plague, showing a consistent theme of covenantal consequences.

Revelation 6
The four horsemen of the apocalypse parallel the four judgments in Ezekiel, symbolizing divine judgment and the unfolding of God's plan in the end times.

Jeremiah 15
Jeremiah also speaks of the four kinds of destroyers, reinforcing the message of inevitable judgment due to persistent sin.