◄ Ezekiel 14 ►
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Idolatrous Elders Condemned (Romans 14:13–23; 1 Corinthians 8:1–13) 1Then some of the elders of Israel came and sat down before me. 2And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 3“Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces. Should I consult with them in any way? 4Therefore speak to them and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘When any Israelite sets up idols in his heart and puts a wicked stumbling block before his face, and then comes to the prophet, I the LORD will answer him according to his great idolatry, 5so that I may take hold of the hearts of the people of Israel. For because of their idols, they are all estranged from Me.’ 6Therefore tell the house of Israel that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Repent and turn away from your idols; turn your faces away from all your abominations. 7For when any Israelite or any foreigner dwelling in Israel separates himself from Me, sets up idols in his heart, and puts a wicked stumbling block before his face, and then comes to the prophet to inquire of Me, I the LORD will answer him Myself. 8I will set My face against that man and make him a sign and a proverb; I will cut him off from among My people. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 9But if the prophet is enticed to speak a message, then it was I the LORD who enticed him, and I will stretch out My hand against him and destroy him from among My people Israel. 10They will bear their punishment—the punishment of the inquirer will be the same as that of the prophet— 11in order that the house of Israel may no longer stray from Me and no longer defile themselves with all their transgressions. Then they will be My people and I will be their God, declares the Lord GOD.’” Four Dire Judgments 12And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 13“Son of man, if a land sins against Me by acting unfaithfully, and I stretch out My hand against it to cut off its supplya of food, to send famine upon it, and to cut off from it both man and beast, 14then even if these three men—Noah, Daniel, and Job—were in it, their righteousness could deliver only themselves, declares the Lord GOD. 15Or if I send wild beasts through the land to leave it childless and desolate, with no man passing through it for fear of the beasts, 16then as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, even if these three men were in it, they could not deliver their own sons or daughters. They alone would be delivered, but the land would be desolate. 17Or if I bring a sword against that land and say, ‘Let a sword pass through it,’ so that I cut off from it both man and beast, 18then as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, even if these three men were in it, they could not deliver their own sons or daughters. They alone would be delivered. 19Or if I send a plague into that land and pour out My wrath upon it through bloodshed, cutting off from it both man and beast, 20then as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it, they could not deliver their own sons or daughters. Their righteousness could deliver only themselves. 21For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘How much worse will it be when I send against Jerusalem My four dire judgments—sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague—in order to cut off from it both man and beast? 22Yet, behold, some survivors will be left in it—sons and daughters who will be brought out. They will come out to you, and when you see their conduct and actions, you will be comforted regarding the disaster I have brought upon Jerusalem—all that I have brought upon it. 23They will bring you consolation when you see their conduct and actions, and you will know that it was not without cause that I have done all these things within it,’ declares the Lord GOD.” Footnotes: 13 a Hebrew staff Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 14 Summary Idolatrous Elders Condemned Verses 1–11 – Idolatry Exposed and Rebuked Elders arrive at Ezekiel’s house to seek a word from the LORD. God instantly unmasks the secret idols lodged “in their hearts” and calls them “the stumbling block of their iniquity.” Anyone who clings to idols yet asks God for guidance will get an answer that matches his deception—judgment designed to seize the hearts of Israel. Both idol-loving inquirers and any prophet who panders to them will be cut off, “that the house of Israel may never again stray from Me.” Verses 12–20 – Personal Righteousness Cannot Save the Land The LORD sets forth a series of hypotheticals: if a land sins and He sends famine, beasts, sword, or plague, even if Noah, Daniel, and Job lived there, their righteousness would rescue only themselves. National guilt is not canceled by borrowed merit; judgment remains certain. Verses 21–23 – A Remnant for Recognition of God’s Justice The fourfold judgments are coming against Jerusalem, yet God will spare survivors. When the exiles see the remnant’s behavior—mirroring the sins that triggered judgment—they will realize the punishment was well-deserved and be comforted, knowing God acted with cause. Ezekiel 14 is a poignant chapter that underscores the principles of divine justice, personal accountability, the condemnation of idolatry, and the assurance of a faithful remnant. The chapter opens with the elders of Israel visiting Ezekiel, who then receives a message from God addressing their hidden idolatry. Historical Setting Ezekiel prophesies in Babylon about 591–590 BC, six years before Jerusalem’s fall. Elders often visit him as they once consulted Jeremiah, but their outward inquiry masks inward idolatry. Idolatry in the Heart • Chapter 14 shifts the focus from carved idols (Ezekiel 8) to internal devotion. • “Stumbling block” pictures an object that trips a traveler—idolatry trips the idolater and, through leadership influence, the nation (Leviticus 19:14). • Jesus later confirms the principle: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Prophet and Seeker Held Accountable “‘I the LORD will answer him according to the multitude of his idols.’” (v 4) As in Deuteronomy 13, God tests hearts through prophets; the deceiver and the deceived share guilt (vv 9-10). Romans 1:24-25 mirrors this pattern—God gives idolaters over to their desires. Personal Responsibility Four times (vv 14, 16, 18, 20) God states that Noah, Daniel, and Job “could save only themselves by their righteousness.” This anticipation of Ezekiel 18 shows that each soul answers for its own sin. Daniel, a contemporary exile serving the Babylonian court, is already famed for integrity (Daniel 1–2). Four Severe Judgments 1. Famine – bread withdrawn (Leviticus 26:26). 2. Wild beasts – depopulated land becomes animal territory (Leviticus 26:22). 3. Sword – invading armies (Deuteronomy 32:41-42). 4. Plague – disease often accompanying siege (Jeremiah 21:6). Revelation 6:8 later combines the same quartet. The Righteous Trio • Noah (Genesis 6) – endured global judgment. • Daniel – young exile known for purity and wisdom. • Job – patriarch renowned for steadfastness amid suffering. Spanning pre-Flood, exile, and patriarchal eras, they prove God’s standard is unchanged. Purpose of the Remnant Survivors will “console” the exiles (v 22) by proving judgment was just. This matches Isaiah 10:20-22 and foreshadows Paul’s teaching on a remnant in Romans 11:5. Archaeological Notes • Al-Yahudu tablets confirm Jewish settlements along Babylonian canals like Chebar. • Jerusalem excavations reveal household Asherah figurines from the same era, supporting Ezekiel’s charge of private idolatry. • Assyrian lion reliefs illustrate predators that roam depopulated lands, visualizing “wild beasts.” Literary Structure A Elders approach (vv 1-3) B Divine accusation (vv 4-5) C Call to repent (v 6) D Oracle against idolaters and false prophets (vv 7-11) C′ Indictment of the land (v 12) B′ Four judgments (vv 13-21) A′ Remnant and recognition of justice (vv 22-23) Key Themes for Today • God sees beneath religious activity to heart loyalty. • Seeking guidance while cherishing sin invites corrective answers (James 1:6-8). • Personal faithfulness matters even when national destiny is fixed (Philippians 2:15). • Judgment is measured, purposeful, and ultimately redemptive (Ezekiel 36:24-28). Scripture Connections Genesis 6 – corruption before the flood parallels Judah’s corruption. Leviticus 26 / Deuteronomy 28 – covenant curses now enacted. Jeremiah 15:1 – even Moses and Samuel could not avert judgment, echoing Ezekiel’s trio motif. Romans 3:23 – all have sinned; personal righteousness is needed through Christ. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. This verse underscores the impossibility of divided loyalties. 1 John 5:21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols. A New Testament reminder of the importance of guarding against idolatry. James 4:8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. This verse encourages us to seek closeness with God and purity of heart. Teaching Points Idolatry of the Heart Ezekiel 14:3 states, Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces. Should I let them inquire of Me at all? This verse highlights that idolatry is not just about physical idols but also about anything that takes precedence over God in our hearts. God's Response to Idolatry In verses 4-5, God declares that He will answer those who come to Him with idols in their hearts according to their idolatry. This shows that God desires sincerity and purity in our relationship with Him. The Call to Repentance Verse 6 calls the people to Repent and turn away from your idols, and turn your faces away from all your abominations. Repentance is a crucial step in restoring our relationship with God. The Consequences of Persistent Idolatry Verses 7-8 warn that those who persist in idolatry will face God's judgment. This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of idolatry. The Role of a Prophet Verses 9-11 discuss the role of a prophet and the responsibility of the people to heed God's warnings. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God's messengers. Practical Applications Examine Your Heart Regularly assess your life to identify any idols that may have taken root in your heart. Ask God to reveal anything that is hindering your relationship with Him. Prioritize God Make a conscious effort to prioritize your relationship with God above all else. This may involve setting aside time for prayer, Bible study, and worship. Repentance and Renewal If you identify idols in your life, take immediate steps to repent and seek God's forgiveness. Embrace the renewal that comes from turning back to Him. Heed God's Warnings Be attentive to the warnings and guidance God provides through His Word and His messengers. Allow these to guide your decisions and actions. People 1. Ezekiel The prophet who is receiving the word of the LORD. Ezekiel is a major prophet in the Old Testament, tasked with delivering God's messages to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon. 2. The Elders of Israel These are the leaders of the Israelite community who come to Ezekiel to inquire of the LORD. They represent the people of Israel and are often seen as responsible for guiding the community in spiritual and social matters. 3. Noah Mentioned as a righteous man who, according to Genesis, was saved from the flood due to his faithfulness. In Ezekiel 14:14, Noah is cited as an example of righteousness, emphasizing that even his presence would not save the sinful land. 4. Daniel Another example of righteousness, Daniel is known for his unwavering faith and integrity, particularly during the Babylonian exile. His mention in Ezekiel 14:14 highlights his reputation for wisdom and righteousness. 5. Job Known for his patience and faithfulness amidst suffering, Job is the third example of a righteous man in Ezekiel 14:14. His account is a testament to enduring faith and righteousness despite severe trials. Places 1. Israel The primary setting of Ezekiel's prophecies, Israel is the nation to whom the prophet is speaking. The chapter addresses the idolatry and unfaithfulness of the people of Israel. The Hebrew root for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 2. Jerusalem Although not explicitly mentioned in Ezekiel 14, Jerusalem is often the focal point of Ezekiel's prophecies. It is the capital city of Israel and the location of the Temple, which is central to the religious life of the Israelites. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), meaning "foundation of peace." Events 1. Elders of Israel Visit Ezekiel The chapter begins with the elders of Israel coming to Ezekiel to inquire of the Lord. This signifies their recognition of Ezekiel as a prophet and their desire for divine guidance. (Ezekiel 14:1) 2. Idolatry in the Hearts God reveals to Ezekiel that the elders have set up idols in their hearts and have put stumbling blocks of iniquity before their faces. This indicates a deep-seated idolatry that is not just external but internal, affecting their relationship with God. (Ezekiel 14:3) 3. God's Refusal to Answer The Lord declares that He will not be inquired of by those who harbor idols in their hearts. This highlights the principle that God requires sincerity and purity of heart from those who seek Him. (Ezekiel 14:3-4) 4. Call to Repentance God commands the house of Israel to repent and turn away from their idols and abominations. This call to repentance is a consistent theme in the prophetic literature, emphasizing the need for a change of heart and behavior. (Ezekiel 14:6) 5. Judgment on Persistent Idolatry The Lord warns that if anyone persists in idolatry and comes to a prophet, He will answer them directly and set His face against them. This underscores the seriousness of idolatry and the personal nature of God's judgment. (Ezekiel 14:7-8) 6. Deception of False Prophets God speaks about the deception of false prophets who lead people astray. He declares that He will stretch out His hand against them, showing His commitment to truth and justice. (Ezekiel 14:9) 7. Individual Responsibility The chapter emphasizes individual responsibility, stating that even if righteous men like Noah, Daniel, and Job were in the land, they could only save themselves by their righteousness. This highlights the personal nature of faith and accountability. (Ezekiel 14:14, 20) 8. Fourfold Judgment God outlines four severe judgments—sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague—that He will send upon Jerusalem. These judgments are meant to purify and bring the people back to Him. (Ezekiel 14:21) 9. A Remnant Will Be Spared Despite the severe judgments, God promises that a remnant will be spared. This remnant will serve as a testimony to the justice and mercy of God, providing hope for future restoration. (Ezekiel 14:22-23) Lessons from Ezekiel 14 1. The Danger of Idolatry Ezekiel 14 opens with a stern warning against idolatry, reminding us that placing anything above God in our hearts leads us astray. "These men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces" (Ezekiel 14:3). This serves as a powerful reminder to examine our lives and ensure that nothing takes precedence over our relationship with God. 2. The Call to Repentance God's call to repentance is clear and urgent. "Therefore tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Repent and turn away from your idols; turn your faces away from all your abominations’" (Ezekiel 14:6). Repentance is not just a one-time act but a continual turning back to God, aligning our lives with His will. 3. Personal Responsibility Ezekiel 14 emphasizes personal responsibility in our spiritual journey. Each individual is accountable for their own actions and relationship with God. "For everyone of the house of Israel or of the strangers who dwell in Israel, who separates himself from Me and sets up idols in his heart... I the LORD will answer him Myself" (Ezekiel 14:7). This underscores the importance of personal devotion and integrity. 4. The Role of the Prophet Prophets play a crucial role in guiding and warning God's people. Ezekiel is tasked with delivering God's message, highlighting the importance of listening to those who speak truth from Scripture. "If the prophet is enticed to speak a message, it is I, the LORD, who have enticed that prophet" (Ezekiel 14:9). This reminds us to discern and heed godly counsel. 5. The Consequences of Sin Ezekiel 14 does not shy away from the reality of sin's consequences. God warns of judgment for those who persist in idolatry and rebellion. "I will set My face against that man and make him a sign and a proverb" (Ezekiel 14:8). This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. 6. The Power of Intercession The chapter highlights the power of intercession, as even the presence of righteous individuals like Noah, Daniel, and Job could not save the land from judgment. "Even if these three men were in it, they could save only themselves by their righteousness" (Ezekiel 14:14). This encourages us to pray fervently for others, knowing that our prayers can make a difference. 7. The Sovereignty of God Ezekiel 14 underscores God's sovereignty over all creation. His judgments are just and His plans are perfect. "I will stretch out My hand against it and cut off its supply of bread" (Ezekiel 14:13). Trusting in God's sovereignty brings peace, knowing that He is in control of every situation. 8. The Importance of Holiness God calls His people to holiness, setting them apart from the world. "They will bear their punishment—the punishment of the inquirer will be the same as that of the prophet" (Ezekiel 14:10). This challenges us to live lives that reflect God's holiness, striving to be set apart for His purposes. 9. The Assurance of God's Faithfulness Despite the warnings and judgments, God's faithfulness remains steadfast. He promises restoration and hope for those who turn back to Him. "Yet behold, some survivors will be left in it—sons and daughters who will be brought out" (Ezekiel 14:22). This assurance encourages us to trust in God's promises, knowing He is faithful to His word. 10. The Ultimate Hope in Christ While Ezekiel 14 deals with judgment, it ultimately points us to the hope found in Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus offers salvation and restoration to all who believe. As we reflect on these lessons, let us be reminded of the ultimate hope we have in Christ, who is "the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6). Topics 1. Idolatry in the Heart (Ezekiel 14:1-5) The elders of Israel come to Ezekiel, and God reveals that they have set up idols in their hearts. The Hebrew word for "idols" (גִּלּוּלִים, ^gillulim^) implies detestable things, highlighting the spiritual adultery of the people. God declares that He will answer them according to their idolatry. 2. The Call to Repentance (Ezekiel 14:6-8) God commands the house of Israel to repent and turn away from their idols. The Hebrew term for "repent" (שׁוּב, ^shuv^) means to return or turn back, emphasizing a complete change of direction. God warns that those who refuse will face His judgment. 3. The Consequences of Persistent Idolatry (Ezekiel 14:9-11) God warns that if a prophet is deceived into speaking a false message, it is because God has allowed it as a test. The Hebrew root for "deceived" (תָּעָה, ^ta'ah^) suggests wandering or going astray. This serves as a warning to both the prophet and the people, emphasizing accountability. 4. The Righteousness of Noah, Daniel, and Job (Ezekiel 14:12-20) God declares that even if these three righteous men were in the land, they could only save themselves by their righteousness. This underscores the personal responsibility each individual has before God. The mention of these figures highlights the severity of the judgment due to the people's sin. 5. The Fourfold Judgment (Ezekiel 14:21-23) God speaks of sending four severe judgments: sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague. The Hebrew word for "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, ^mishpat^) indicates a legal decision or decree. These judgments are meant to purify and bring the people back to God, demonstrating His justice and mercy. Themes 1. Idolatry in the Heart Ezekiel 14:3 highlights the theme of idolatry, where God addresses the elders of Israel who have "set up idols in their hearts." The Hebrew word for idols, "גִּלּוּלִים" (gillulim), refers to detestable things or false gods, emphasizing the internal nature of idolatry as a heart issue rather than merely external practices. 2. Divine Judgment In Ezekiel 14:4, God declares that He will answer those who come to Him with idols in their hearts "according to the multitude of their idols." This theme underscores the certainty of divine judgment based on one's inner spiritual state and the consequences of harboring idolatry. 3. Call to Repentance Ezekiel 14:6 calls the people to "repent and turn away from your idols." The Hebrew word for repent, "שׁוּב" (shuv), means to turn back or return, indicating a complete change of direction away from sin and towards God. 4. Individual Responsibility The theme of individual responsibility is evident in Ezekiel 14:14, where even the righteousness of Noah, Daniel, and Job would not save others but only themselves. This highlights personal accountability before God, emphasizing that each person is responsible for their own spiritual state. 5. Inevitability of Judgment Ezekiel 14:21 speaks of God's "four dreadful judgments"—sword, famine, wild beasts, and plague. These judgments are described as inevitable consequences for persistent unfaithfulness, reflecting the seriousness of God's justice. 6. Remnant and Hope Despite the severe judgments, Ezekiel 14:22-23 offers a theme of hope, where a remnant will be brought out. This remnant serves as a sign of God's mercy and faithfulness, ensuring that His covenant promises endure even amidst judgment. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart Check Ask God to reveal any idols in your heart and give you the courage to remove them. Pray for Repentance Seek God's forgiveness for any idolatry and ask for His help in turning away from it. Pray for Devotion Request a renewed passion and commitment to prioritize God above all else in your life. Pray for Discernment Ask for wisdom to recognize and heed God's warnings and guidance in your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the mention of “Noah, Daniel, and Job” in Ezekiel 14:14 be reconciled with their differing historical timelines? 2. If God judges individual hearts, why does Ezekiel 14:13–20 depict whole communities being punished for the sins of a few? 3. Are there any archaeological findings that confirm the severe judgments (famine, wild beasts, sword, plague) predicted in Ezekiel 14:13–21? 4. Does the inclusion of Daniel in Ezekiel 14:14 suggest an anachronism, since the historical Daniel may have been a contemporary of Ezekiel? 5. How does Ezekiel’s teaching in chapter 14 align with or contradict the New Testament emphasis on personal responsibility for sin? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the issue of idolatry in Ezekiel's time relate to today's context? What are the "idols" in your life? 2. What does the presence of idols in the hearts of the Israelite elders say about hidden sins? 3. How does personal accountability play out in your life? Discuss the implications of the principle of individual accountability found in Ezekiel 14. 4. How can you apply God's call for repentance in your personal spiritual journey? 5. What do the examples of Noah, Daniel, and Job teach us about righteousness and God's judgment? 6. How does the concept of a 'remnant' apply in a contemporary setting, particularly in the Church? 7. Why do you think God chose to spare a remnant despite the idolatrous acts of the people? 8. How does God's judgment in this chapter resonate with His attribute of justice? 9. In what ways does God's sovereignty shine through this chapter? 10. How can the message of this chapter influence your interactions with the secular world? 11. How does the call to turn away from idols challenge your understanding of devotion to God? 12. How does the promise of a faithful remnant give hope in the face of impending judgment? 13. What are some practical ways you can ensure you're not straying from God in your daily life? 14. How does God's message to the elders of Israel encourage personal self-examination? 15. How do you perceive God’s simultaneous justice and mercy as expressed in Ezekiel 14? 16. How would you apply the lessons from this chapter in your role as a leader in your community or church? 17. What actions would you take if you discovered idolatrous practices within your faith community? 18. How does the concept of a 'faithful remnant' motivate you to stay committed to your faith? 19. How does the theme of divine judgment in this chapter shape your understanding of the consequences of unrepentant sin? 20. How can the image of a redeemable remnant inspire hope and courage in times of personal or collective crisis? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions