Ezekiel 20:4

Will you judge them, will you judge them, son of man? Confront them with the abominations of their fathers

Study Bible

Will you judge them
The repetition of this phrase emphasizes the seriousness of the task given to Ezekiel. In Hebrew, the word for "judge" is "שָׁפַט" (shaphat), which means to govern, vindicate, or punish. This reflects God's call for Ezekiel to act as a divine intermediary, bringing to light the sins of the people. The role of a judge in ancient Israel was not only to pass judgment but also to guide and correct, highlighting the dual role of Ezekiel as both a prophet and a shepherd to the people.

son of man
This phrase, "בֶּן אָדָם" (ben adam) in Hebrew, is a title used frequently in the book of Ezekiel, emphasizing the prophet's humanity and his role as a representative of mankind. It serves to remind Ezekiel of his own human limitations and the grace of God that empowers him to fulfill his prophetic duties. This title also foreshadows the New Testament use of "Son of Man" for Jesus, linking the prophetic mission of Ezekiel to the ultimate mission of Christ.

Confront them
The Hebrew word "הוֹדַע" (hoda) means to make known or declare. Ezekiel is commanded to boldly present the truth to the Israelites, regardless of their response. This act of confrontation is not merely accusatory but is intended to lead to repentance and restoration. It underscores the prophetic duty to speak truth to power and to call people back to covenant faithfulness.

with the abominations
The term "abominations" is translated from the Hebrew word "תּוֹעֵבוֹת" (to'evot), which refers to detestable practices, often associated with idolatry and moral corruption. In the historical context, these abominations were the idolatrous practices adopted from surrounding nations, which led Israel away from their covenant with God. This highlights the severity of their sin and the need for divine intervention.

of their fathers
This phrase points to the generational nature of sin and the historical context of Israel's rebellion. The sins of the fathers refer to the persistent disobedience and idolatry that characterized Israel's history. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of breaking the cycle of sin through repentance and obedience. This historical reflection is intended to provoke a sense of accountability and a desire for renewal among the people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. Known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts.

2. Son of Man
A title used frequently in Ezekiel, emphasizing his humanity and role as a representative of the people before God.

3. Israelites
The people of Israel, who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry. They are the primary audience of Ezekiel's prophecies.

4. Abominations of their Fathers
Refers to the sinful practices and idolatry of the ancestors of the Israelites, which led to their current state of judgment and exile.

5. Judgment
The act of God holding the Israelites accountable for their sins, a central theme in Ezekiel's prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Role of a Prophet
Prophets are called to speak truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Ezekiel's role was to confront the people with their sins, a task that required courage and faithfulness to God's message.

Generational Sin
The concept of generational sin highlights the impact of the past on the present. It is crucial to recognize and repent of inherited sinful patterns to break the cycle.

Accountability Before God
Each individual and community is accountable to God for their actions. This passage reminds us of the importance of self-examination and repentance.

Confronting Sin
Confrontation of sin is necessary for spiritual growth and renewal. It is an act of love to address sin in ourselves and others, leading to restoration.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God is just and must judge sin, His ultimate desire is for repentance and restoration. This balance is evident throughout Ezekiel's ministry.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet challenge us to speak truth in our own lives and communities today?

2. In what ways can we identify and address "the abominations of our fathers" in our personal and communal lives?

3. How do the themes of judgment and accountability in Ezekiel 20:4 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are not repeating the sins of previous generations?

5. How can we balance the need to confront sin with the call to extend grace and mercy, as demonstrated in the broader account of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20
The giving of the Ten Commandments, which the Israelites repeatedly violated, leading to their judgment.

Jeremiah 7
Jeremiah also confronts the people with their sins and the consequences of their disobedience, similar to Ezekiel's message.

Leviticus 26
Outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which are reflected in the historical context of Ezekiel's prophecies.