Ezekiel 20:49

Then I said, "Ah, Lord GOD, they are saying of me, 'Is he not just telling parables?'"

Study Bible

Then I said
This phrase indicates a direct response from the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew word for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used to denote a declaration or proclamation. In this context, it reflects Ezekiel's immediate reaction to the situation he faces. It is a moment of personal expression, showing the prophet's human side and his engagement with God in a conversational manner. This highlights the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where dialogue is open and honest.

Ah, Lord GOD!
The exclamation "Ah" is a transliteration of the Hebrew "אֲהָהּ" (ahhah), an expression of distress or lament. It conveys a deep emotional response, often used in moments of despair or frustration. "Lord GOD" is a translation of "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh), a title that emphasizes God's sovereignty and covenantal relationship with Israel. This phrase underscores Ezekiel's reverence and recognition of God's ultimate authority, even amidst his personal struggles and the people's skepticism.

They are saying of me
This phrase reveals the perception and reaction of the people towards Ezekiel. The Hebrew root "אָמַר" (amar) is again used here, indicating the people's ongoing commentary or gossip about the prophet. It reflects a communal attitude of doubt or dismissal towards Ezekiel's messages. This highlights the challenge prophets often faced: delivering God's truth to a resistant or unbelieving audience.

Is he not just telling parables?
The word "parables" is translated from the Hebrew "מָשָׁל" (mashal), which can mean a proverb, parable, or allegory. Parables were a common teaching tool in ancient times, used to convey deeper truths through simple accounts or analogies. However, the people's question implies skepticism or trivialization of Ezekiel's messages, suggesting they view his prophecies as mere accounts without real significance or divine authority. This reflects a broader theme in scripture where God's messages are often misunderstood or dismissed by those who are spiritually blind or hard-hearted.

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. Lord GOD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and relationship with Israel.

3. Israelites
The people of God who are in exile in Babylon due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. Babylon
The place of exile for the Israelites, representing a period of judgment and reflection.

5. Parables
Symbolic accounts or messages used by prophets to convey deeper spiritual truths, often misunderstood by the audience.

Teaching Points

Understanding Parables
Parables are meant to reveal truths to those who seek understanding. We should approach Scripture with a heart open to learning and discernment.

Prophetic Challenges
Prophets often faced skepticism and misunderstanding. As believers, we may also encounter resistance when sharing God's truth, but we must remain faithful.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the Israelites' disbelief, God remains sovereign and His purposes will be fulfilled. Trust in God's plan even when it seems unclear.

Spiritual Discernment
Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to understand and apply the deeper meanings of Scripture in our lives.

Faithfulness in Exile
Like the Israelites in Babylon, we may find ourselves in challenging situations. Remain faithful and attentive to God's voice during these times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's experience with the Israelites' skepticism reflect challenges we might face when sharing our faith today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a heart that is open to understanding the deeper truths of Scripture, especially when they are presented in parables or symbolic language?

3. How does the use of parables in both the Old and New Testaments demonstrate God's method of revealing truth to those who are spiritually discerning?

4. What can we learn from Ezekiel's faithfulness in delivering God's message despite the people's disbelief and mockery?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Ezekiel 20:49 to remain faithful and trust in God's sovereignty during our own "exile" experiences or challenging times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 13
Jesus uses parables to teach the crowds, and His disciples question why He speaks in parables. This highlights the use of parables as a means to reveal truths to those who are spiritually discerning.

Isaiah 6
Isaiah's commission includes the idea that people will hear but not understand, similar to the Israelites' reaction to Ezekiel's messages.

Jeremiah 1
Jeremiah's call as a prophet includes the challenge of speaking to a people who may not listen, paralleling Ezekiel's experience.