Ezekiel 7:26

Disaster upon disaster will come, and rumor after rumor. Then they will seek a vision from a prophet, but instruction from the priests will perish, as will counsel from the elders.

Study Bible

Disaster after disaster
The Hebrew word for "disaster" is "הָרָעָה" (ha-ra'ah), which conveys a sense of calamity or evil. In the context of Ezekiel, this phrase emphasizes the relentless and overwhelming nature of the judgment that God is bringing upon the people of Israel due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. Historically, this reflects the period leading up to the Babylonian exile, where successive calamities befell the nation. The repetition underscores the certainty and severity of God's impending judgment, serving as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from divine commandments.

will come
The phrase "will come" indicates the inevitability of these events. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) is used here, suggesting an arrival or coming forth. This conveys the certainty of God's prophetic word through Ezekiel. The use of future tense highlights the prophetic nature of the message, assuring that what God has declared will indeed take place. It serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to recognize the seriousness of their situation and turn back to God before it is too late.

and rumor after rumor
The word "rumor" in Hebrew is "שְׁמוּעָה" (shemu'ah), which can mean a report or news. In the ancient Near Eastern context, rumors often spread fear and uncertainty, especially during times of political instability or impending invasion. This phrase suggests a time of confusion and panic among the people, as they hear conflicting reports and are unable to discern the truth. It reflects the chaos and lack of reliable guidance that accompanies divine judgment, emphasizing the breakdown of societal order when God’s presence and truth are ignored.

They will seek a vision from the prophet
The role of the prophet in Israel was to be a mouthpiece for God, providing divine guidance and revelation. The Hebrew word for "vision" is "חָזוֹן" (chazon), which refers to a divine communication or revelation. In times of crisis, people naturally turn to prophets for insight and direction. However, this phrase implies a tragic irony: despite their seeking, the people will find no true vision, as their relationship with God has been severed by their sin. It underscores the futility of seeking divine guidance when one has persistently rejected God’s word.

but instruction will perish from the priest
The Hebrew word for "instruction" is "תּוֹרָה" (torah), which is often translated as "law" or "teaching." Priests were responsible for teaching the Torah and guiding the people in worship and obedience to God. The phrase "will perish" suggests a loss or disappearance, indicating that the priests will no longer be able to fulfill their role. This reflects a spiritual desolation where the foundational teachings of God are no longer accessible, highlighting the dire consequences of neglecting the covenant relationship with God.

and counsel from the elders
Elders in Israelite society were respected leaders and decision-makers, often sought for their wisdom and experience. The Hebrew word for "counsel" is "עֵצָה" (etsah), meaning advice or guidance. The loss of counsel from the elders signifies a breakdown in communal leadership and wisdom. This absence of guidance further compounds the chaos and despair, illustrating the complete unraveling of societal structures when God’s wisdom is absent. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of godly leadership and the peril of ignoring divine counsel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel prophesied, experiencing God's judgment due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

3. Prophets, Priests, and Elders
Key religious and community leaders in Israel who were expected to provide guidance and wisdom to the people.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period during which the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, a central context for Ezekiel's prophecies.

5. Disaster and Rumor
Represents the chaos and uncertainty that would befall Israel as a result of their rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Persistent rebellion against God leads to a withdrawal of His guidance and protection.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
Spiritual leaders are crucial for providing guidance, but their effectiveness is nullified when they stray from God's truth.

The Importance of Seeking God
In times of crisis, turning to God and His Word is essential for true wisdom and direction.

The Danger of Spiritual Deception
False teachings and rumors can lead people astray, emphasizing the need for discernment and adherence to Scripture.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgments are just and serve as a call to repentance and return to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the absence of true guidance from prophets, priests, and elders in Ezekiel 7:26 reflect the spiritual state of Israel?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are receiving true spiritual guidance today, and how does this relate to the Berean approach in Acts 17:11?

3. How can the themes of disaster and rumor in Ezekiel 7:26 be seen in today's world, and what biblical principles can help us navigate such times?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "famine" of hearing God's Word. What steps did you take to reconnect with Him?

5. How can the church today learn from the failures of Israel's leaders in Ezekiel 7:26 to better serve their communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 14:14
This passage also speaks of false prophets and the absence of true divine guidance, highlighting the theme of spiritual deception and judgment.

Amos 8:11-12
Amos prophesies a famine of hearing the words of the Lord, similar to the withdrawal of divine guidance in Ezekiel 7:26.

Proverbs 11:14
Emphasizes the importance of wise counsel, contrasting the absence of guidance in Ezekiel 7:26.

2 Chronicles 36:15-16
Chronicles the repeated rejection of God's messengers by Israel, leading to judgment.