Ezekiel 9:11

Then the man clothed in linen with the writing kit at his side reported back, "I have done as You commanded."

Study Bible

Then the man
This phrase refers to a specific figure in Ezekiel's vision, often interpreted as an angelic being or a divine messenger. In the context of Ezekiel 9, this "man" is tasked with marking the foreheads of those who lament the abominations in Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for "man" here is "אִישׁ" (ish), which can denote a human or a figure of authority. This highlights the role of divine agents in executing God's will, emphasizing the seriousness and sacredness of the task.

clothed in linen
Linen garments are significant in biblical texts, often associated with purity, holiness, and priestly duties. The Hebrew word "בַּד" (bad) for linen suggests a fabric used in sacred contexts, such as the garments of the high priest (Exodus 28:39-42). This attire indicates the man's role as a holy servant, set apart for a divine mission, underscoring the purity required to carry out God's commands.

with the writing kit at his side
The presence of a writing kit, or "קֶסֶת הַסּוֹפֵר" (keset ha-sofer), signifies the importance of recording and marking, a task of precision and authority. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, scribes held significant roles in documenting decrees and events. This imagery conveys the meticulous nature of God's judgment and the careful selection of those who are to be spared, reflecting the divine order and justice.

brought back word
This phrase indicates the completion of a task and the return to report to a higher authority. The Hebrew "וַיָּשָׁב" (vayashav) implies a return or response, suggesting accountability and obedience. It highlights the faithfulness of the divine messenger in fulfilling God's command, serving as a model of obedience for believers.

saying, 'I have done as You commanded.'
The declaration of obedience, "I have done as You commanded," underscores the theme of submission to divine authority. The Hebrew "כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוִּיתָנִי" (ka'asher tzivitani) reflects a direct fulfillment of God's instructions. This statement serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the fulfillment of God's will, encouraging believers to trust and obey God's commands fully.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man Clothed in Linen
This figure is often interpreted as an angelic being or a divine messenger. In the context of Ezekiel 9, he is tasked with marking the foreheads of those who lament the abominations in Jerusalem, signifying their protection from judgment.

2. Jerusalem
The city is the focal point of God's judgment due to the rampant idolatry and sin among its inhabitants. It serves as the backdrop for the vision and the divine actions described.

3. The Writing Kit
This tool symbolizes the authority and responsibility given to the man in linen to carry out God's command. It represents the recording of those who are to be spared from judgment.

4. God's Command
The directive given by God to the man in linen to mark the faithful and to the other executioners to follow through with judgment on the unfaithful.

5. The Vision of Judgment
This event is a prophetic vision given to Ezekiel, illustrating the impending judgment on Jerusalem and the distinction between the righteous and the wicked.

Teaching Points

Divine Protection for the Faithful
Just as the man in linen marked those who lamented sin, God knows and protects those who remain faithful to Him amidst a sinful world.

The Seriousness of Sin
The judgment on Jerusalem serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance and holiness.

God's Sovereign Justice
God's command and the execution of judgment highlight His sovereignty and justice, assuring believers that He will ultimately right all wrongs.

The Role of Intercession
The marked individuals in Ezekiel 9 were those who lamented the abominations, emphasizing the importance of interceding for others and standing against sin.

Obedience to God's Commands
The man in linen's report, "I have done as You commanded," underscores the importance of obedience to God's directives in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the man clothed in linen in Ezekiel 9:11 reflect the concept of divine protection and judgment in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we, like the marked individuals in Ezekiel 9, demonstrate our lamentation and opposition to the sin around us today?

3. How does the theme of divine justice in Ezekiel 9 encourage us to trust in God's ultimate plan, even when we witness injustice in the world?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, as exemplified by the man in linen?

5. How can the connection between Ezekiel 9 and Revelation 7 deepen our understanding of God's protection and sealing of His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 7:3
This passage describes the sealing of God's servants on their foreheads, similar to the marking in Ezekiel 9, indicating divine protection and ownership.

Exodus 12:7, 13
The marking of the doorposts with lamb's blood during the Passover parallels the marking of the faithful in Ezekiel, signifying protection from divine judgment.

2 Timothy 2:19
This verse speaks of the Lord knowing those who are His, echoing the theme of divine recognition and protection found in Ezekiel 9.