Ezekiel 3:1

"Son of man," He said to me, "eat what you find here. Eat this scroll, then go and speak to the house of Israel."

Study Bible

And He said to me
This phrase introduces a direct communication from God to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the Old Testament to denote divine speech. This highlights the authority and sacredness of the message. In the context of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry, it underscores the personal and direct nature of God's guidance. Historically, prophets were seen as mouthpieces of God, and this phrase sets the stage for the divine instruction that follows.

Son of man
The term "Son of man" is a translation of the Hebrew "בֶּן־אָדָם" (ben-adam), which literally means "son of Adam" or "human being." This phrase emphasizes Ezekiel's humanity and his role as a representative of the people. It is a reminder of the prophet's humble position before God, despite being chosen for a significant mission. Theologically, it points to the incarnation theme, later fully realized in Jesus Christ, who frequently used this title for Himself.

eat what you find
The command to "eat" is symbolic, representing the internalization of God's word. The Hebrew verb "אָכַל" (akal) means to consume or devour, suggesting a deep, transformative engagement with the message. This act of eating signifies the necessity for Ezekiel to fully absorb and understand the divine revelation before he can convey it to others. It is a call to spiritual nourishment and preparation for the prophetic task.

eat this scroll
The "scroll" (Hebrew: "מְגִלָּה", megillah) is a physical representation of God's word. Scrolls were the primary medium for written communication in ancient times, often containing important religious or legal texts. The act of eating the scroll symbolizes the complete assimilation of God's message into Ezekiel's being. This imagery is echoed in other scriptural contexts, such as Revelation 10:9-10, where John is also instructed to eat a scroll, highlighting the continuity of prophetic tradition.

and go
The directive "go" (Hebrew: "הָלַךְ", halak) implies movement and action. It signifies the transition from preparation to mission. Ezekiel is not only to internalize the message but also to act upon it. This command reflects the dynamic nature of God's call, which requires obedience and readiness to serve. It is a reminder that the reception of divine revelation is not an end in itself but a means to fulfill God's purposes.

speak to the house of Israel
The "house of Israel" refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation. In the Hebrew context, "בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל" (beit Yisrael) denotes both a familial and national identity. Ezekiel's mission is to deliver God's message to his fellow Israelites, who were in exile in Babylon at the time. This phrase underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, and the prophet's role in calling the people back to faithfulness. It highlights the enduring relevance of God's word to His people, regardless of their circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, called by God to deliver His messages to the Israelites.

2. God
The divine speaker who commands Ezekiel to eat the scroll, symbolizing the internalization of His words.

3. Scroll
Represents the word of God, containing messages of lamentation, mourning, and woe (as described in the previous chapter).

4. House of Israel
The intended audience of Ezekiel's prophetic messages, representing the people of Israel in exile.

5. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a period of great trial and reflection for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Internalization of God's Word
Just as Ezekiel was commanded to eat the scroll, believers are called to internalize Scripture, allowing it to transform their hearts and minds.

Obedience to God's Call
Ezekiel's willingness to consume the scroll and speak to Israel demonstrates the importance of obedience in fulfilling God's mission for our lives.

The Bittersweet Nature of God's Message
God's word can be both comforting and convicting, offering hope and warning. Believers must be prepared to embrace and share the full counsel of God.

Preparation for Ministry
Before speaking to others, one must first be nourished by God's word, ensuring that their message is rooted in divine truth.

Faithfulness in Difficult Circumstances
Ezekiel's mission to a rebellious people reminds us of the need for perseverance and faithfulness, even when faced with resistance or indifference.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of eating the scroll symbolize the relationship between a prophet and God's word?

2. In what ways can we "eat" or internalize God's word in our daily lives?

3. How does the context of the Babylonian exile influence the urgency and content of Ezekiel's message?

4. What parallels can you draw between Ezekiel's experience and the apostle John's in Revelation 10:9-10?

5. How can we remain faithful in delivering God's message, even when it is met with resistance or rejection?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 10:9-10
John is also instructed to eat a scroll, which is sweet in his mouth but bitter in his stomach, symbolizing the dual nature of God's message.

Jeremiah 15:16
Jeremiah speaks of finding God's words and consuming them, highlighting the joy and sustenance found in God's word.

Psalm 119:103
The psalmist describes God's words as sweet to the taste, emphasizing the desirability and delight of divine instruction.