Ezekiel 14:7

For when any Israelite or any foreigner dwelling in Israel separates himself from Me, sets up idols in his heart, and puts a wicked stumbling block before his face, and then comes to the prophet to inquire of Me, I the LORD will answer him Myself.

Study Bible

For when any Israelite or any foreigner residing in Israel
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of God's message and judgment. The Hebrew word for "Israelite" is "Yisra'el," referring to the descendants of Jacob, who was renamed Israel. The inclusion of "any foreigner" (Hebrew: "ger") highlights that God's covenant and expectations extend beyond ethnic Israel to all who dwell within the community. This reflects the historical context where Israel was a nation among nations, yet called to be distinct in its worship and obedience to Yahweh. The presence of foreigners in Israel was common, and they were expected to adhere to certain laws and practices, emphasizing God's universal sovereignty and the call for all to worship Him alone.

separates himself from Me
The Hebrew root for "separates" is "nazar," which means to consecrate or set apart, but in this context, it is used negatively to indicate a deliberate turning away from God. This separation is not merely physical but spiritual and relational, indicating a breach in the covenant relationship. Historically, Israel's identity was deeply tied to their relationship with Yahweh, and separation from Him was akin to national and spiritual apostasy. This phrase serves as a warning against the dangers of idolatry and the importance of remaining faithful to God.

sets up idols in his heart
The phrase "idols in his heart" uses the Hebrew word "gillulim" for idols, which often refers to detestable things or false gods. The heart, "leb" in Hebrew, is the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. This internalization of idolatry signifies a profound spiritual corruption, where the worship of false gods becomes an intrinsic part of one's identity. In the ancient Near Eastern context, idolatry was not just a physical act but a spiritual allegiance, and this phrase underscores the seriousness of internal idolatry, which is even more insidious than external practices.

puts a wicked stumbling block before his face
The term "stumbling block" (Hebrew: "mikshol") refers to anything that causes one to fall into sin or error. The addition of "wicked" (Hebrew: "ra") emphasizes the moral and spiritual danger of such actions. In the historical context, stumbling blocks were often associated with idolatrous practices that led people away from true worship. This phrase illustrates the self-destructive nature of sin, where individuals place obstacles in their own path, leading to spiritual downfall. It serves as a caution against allowing anything to obstruct one's relationship with God.

and then comes to a prophet to inquire of Me
The act of coming to a prophet (Hebrew: "nabi") to inquire of God indicates a desire for divine guidance or revelation. However, in this context, it is hypocritical, as the individual has already turned away from God in their heart. Prophets in Israel were God's mouthpieces, and seeking their counsel was a serious matter. This phrase highlights the futility and insincerity of seeking God's guidance while harboring idolatry, reflecting the broader biblical theme that God desires genuine repentance and wholehearted devotion.

I the LORD will answer him Myself
The use of "I the LORD" (Hebrew: "Ani Yahweh") is emphatic, underscoring God's personal involvement and authority. The promise to "answer him Myself" indicates that God will not be mocked or manipulated. In the biblical narrative, God's direct response often signifies judgment or correction. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of God's omniscience and justice, affirming that He sees the heart and will address sin directly. It calls believers to sincere repentance and faithfulness, knowing that God is both just and merciful.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The covenant people of God, chosen to be a holy nation and a kingdom of priests.

2. Foreigners residing in Israel
Non-Israelites living among the Israelites, who were expected to adhere to certain aspects of the covenant community.

3. Idols in the heart
Represents internal idolatry, where individuals prioritize anything above God in their hearts.

4. Prophet
A messenger of God, through whom God communicates His will to the people.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His relationship with Israel.

Teaching Points

Guard Your Heart
The heart is the seat of our affections and priorities. We must vigilantly guard against allowing anything to take precedence over our devotion to God.

Internal Idolatry
Idolatry is not just external but can be internal, where desires, ambitions, or relationships become more important than God.

Sincerity in Seeking God
When approaching God, we must do so with sincerity and a pure heart, free from hidden idols or ulterior motives.

God's Omniscience
God knows the true state of our hearts and will respond accordingly. We cannot deceive Him with outward appearances.

Repentance and Restoration
God desires repentance and is willing to restore those who turn away from idols and seek Him wholeheartedly.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols of the heart" that can distract us from our relationship with God?

2. How can we identify and remove stumbling blocks in our spiritual walk that hinder our relationship with God?

3. In what ways does the concept of internal idolatry challenge our understanding of sin and repentance?

4. How does the warning in Ezekiel 14:7 about insincere inquiry relate to Jesus' teaching on serving two masters?

5. Reflect on a time when you sought God's guidance. How did you ensure your heart was fully devoted to Him during that process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:5
This verse emphasizes the command to love God with all one's heart, soul, and strength, contrasting with the divided heart that sets up idols.

Jeremiah 17:9-10
These verses discuss the deceitfulness of the heart and God's ability to search and know the heart, similar to how God addresses the heart's idolatry in Ezekiel.

Matthew 6:24
Jesus teaches that one cannot serve two masters, highlighting the impossibility of serving both God and idols.

1 John 5:21
John warns believers to keep themselves from idols, echoing the call to avoid idolatry in Ezekiel.

James 1:5-8
James speaks about asking God for wisdom without doubting, which relates to the sincerity required when seeking God, unlike those who inquire with idolatrous hearts.