Ezekiel 17:22

This is what the Lord GOD says: 'I will take a shoot from the lofty top of the cedar, and I will set it out. I will pluck a tender sprig from its topmost shoots, and I will plant it on a high and lofty mountain.

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase introduces a divine proclamation, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. In Hebrew, "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," underscoring both the personal and covenantal nature of God. This introduction sets the stage for a message that is not merely prophetic but carries the weight of divine intention and promise. It reminds the reader of God's ultimate control over history and His faithfulness to His word.

I Myself will take a shoot
The imagery of God personally taking a "shoot" is rich with symbolism. The Hebrew word for "shoot" is "yoneqet," which can also mean a tender branch or sprout. This suggests new beginnings and hope. The personal involvement of God ("I Myself") highlights His direct intervention in the affairs of His people, indicating a hands-on approach to the fulfillment of His promises.

from the lofty top of the cedar
The "cedar" is a symbol of strength and majesty, often associated with the nation of Israel and its kings. The "lofty top" suggests the highest and most noble part, indicating that God will choose something of great value and potential. Historically, cedars of Lebanon were renowned for their quality and were used in the construction of the Temple, symbolizing both beauty and durability.

and set it out
The act of setting out the shoot implies careful planting and nurturing. This phrase suggests God's intentionality and purpose in His actions. It reflects the idea of God as a gardener, cultivating His people and His plans with precision and care. The imagery evokes a sense of hope and future growth under God's guidance.

I will break off a tender sprig
The "tender sprig" represents something young and delicate, yet full of potential. The Hebrew word "rach" conveys softness and newness. This action of breaking off signifies a deliberate choice by God to initiate something new and transformative. It speaks to the renewal and restoration that God promises to His people.

and plant it on a high and lofty mountain
Mountains in biblical literature often symbolize places of revelation and divine encounter. The "high and lofty mountain" suggests a place of prominence and visibility. By planting the sprig here, God is indicating that this new growth will be significant and exalted. It points to the establishment of a kingdom or leadership that will be seen and recognized by all, aligning with messianic expectations of a future, righteous reign.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through the prophet Ezekiel.

2. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, who conveyed God's messages to the Israelites.

3. Cedar
Symbolic of strength and majesty, often used in the Bible to represent nations or leaders.

4. Tender Sprig
Represents a new beginning or a future hope, often interpreted as a messianic prophecy.

5. High and Lofty Mountain
Symbolizes a place of prominence and divine purpose, often associated with Jerusalem or the Kingdom of God.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Plan
God is in control and has a plan for restoration and hope, even when circumstances seem dire.

Messianic Hope
The tender sprig symbolizes the coming of Christ, who brings salvation and establishes God's kingdom.

New Beginnings
God can bring new life and purpose from what seems insignificant or broken.

Faith in God's Promises
Trust in God's promises, even when fulfillment seems distant or unlikely.

The Kingdom of God
The imagery of planting on a high mountain points to the establishment and growth of God's kingdom, which believers are called to participate in.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the cedar and the tender sprig in Ezekiel 17:22 enhance our understanding of God's plan for restoration?

2. In what ways does the prophecy in Ezekiel 17:22 point to the coming of Jesus Christ, and how does this impact our faith today?

3. How can we apply the concept of new beginnings in our personal lives, especially in times of difficulty or transition?

4. What does the high and lofty mountain symbolize in the context of God's kingdom, and how can we contribute to its growth?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Isaiah 11:1 and Matthew 13:31-32, deepen our understanding of God's redemptive plan throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 11:1
This verse speaks of a shoot coming from the stump of Jesse, which parallels the imagery of a new beginning and messianic hope found in Ezekiel 17:22.

Psalm 72:16
Describes a flourishing kingdom, which connects to the idea of planting and growth in Ezekiel 17:22.

Zechariah 6:12
Refers to the Branch, a messianic figure, which aligns with the tender sprig imagery.

Matthew 13:31-32
The parable of the mustard seed, which grows into a large tree, echoes the theme of small beginnings leading to great outcomes.

Revelation 22:16
Jesus refers to Himself as the Root and Offspring of David, connecting to the messianic interpretation of the sprig.