the word of the LORD
This phrase underscores the divine origin of the message. In the Old Testament, "the word of the LORD" is a common expression used to denote a direct communication from God to His prophets. It signifies authority and truth, as seen in other prophetic books like Jeremiah and Isaiah. The phrase also highlights the importance of the message that follows, as it is not merely human opinion but divine instruction.

came to me
This personalizes the message, indicating that Ezekiel is the chosen recipient of God's word. It reflects the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where God entrusts His messages to specific individuals. This personal aspect is seen throughout the prophetic literature, where God calls and equips His prophets for their unique missions.

saying
This introduces the content of the divine message. It prepares the reader for the specific instructions or revelations that God is about to impart. In the context of Ezekiel 16, what follows is a metaphorical depiction of Jerusalem's unfaithfulness, using the imagery of an unfaithful wife. This sets the stage for a powerful and vivid narrative that conveys God's perspective on Israel's spiritual state.

In summary, this verse sets the stage for a significant prophetic message, emphasizing the divine origin, personal reception, and authoritative nature of what is to follow.

- The first word signals a fresh revelation that follows a steady pattern of divine speech in the book (Ezekiel 6:1; 12:1; 20:1).

- It reminds us that God consistently pursues His people, even after prior warnings, underscoring His patience (2 Peter 3:9).

- The repetition highlights that each new oracle builds on the previous one, forming an unbroken chain of accountability and grace.

- What Ezekiel hears is not personal opinion but God-breathed, authoritative truth (2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12).

- “Word” here carries the weight of covenant faithfulness; when the LORD speaks, His promises and judgments alike stand firm (Numbers 23:19).

- This phrase anchors the prophet’s message in divine origin, ensuring the coming rebuke in chapter 16 is just and righteous (Deuteronomy 32:4).

- The initiative is entirely God’s; Ezekiel does not seek out a vision—he receives it (Jeremiah 1:4–5).

- God’s personal approach to the prophet illustrates relational intimacy: the Creator stoops to address His servant directly (Exodus 33:11).

- It underscores responsibility: because the word “came,” Ezekiel must pass it on faithfully (Ezekiel 3:17).

- The verb introduces the precise content that follows; nothing is vague or left to guesswork (Isaiah 55:11).

- It cues the listener to expect instruction and evaluation—chapter 16 will expose Jerusalem’s unfaithfulness with vivid detail (Hosea 2:2).

- The clarity of God’s speech ensures His people cannot claim ignorance; revelation demands response (James 1:22).

Ezekiel 16:1, though brief, sets a profound stage. “Again” shows God’s persistent pursuit; “the word of the LORD” affirms absolute authority; “came to me” underscores personal commissioning; and “saying” prepares us for specific, weighty instruction. Together these phrases declare that what follows is a direct, uncompromising message from the covenant-keeping God to His people, calling them to recognize their sin and return to Him.

Parallel Commentaries ...