◄ Ezekiel 15 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Jerusalem the Useless Vine 1Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, how does the wood of the vine surpass any other branch among the trees in the forest? 3Can wood be taken from it to make something useful? Or can one make from it a peg on which to hang utensils? 4No, it is cast into the fire for fuel. The fire devours both ends, and the middle is charred. Can it be useful for anything? 5Even when it was whole, it could not be made useful. How much less can it ever be useful when the fire has consumed it and charred it! 6Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Like the wood of the vine among the trees of the forest, which I have given to the fire for fuel, so I will give up the people of Jerusalem. 7And I will set My face against them. Though they may have escaped the fire, yet another fire will consume them. And when I set My face against them, you will know that I am the LORD. 8Thus I will make the land desolate, because they have acted unfaithfully,’ declares the Lord GOD.” 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 15 Summary Jerusalem the Useless Vine Verses 1–3 – The Worthlessness of Vine Wood The word of the LORD asks Ezekiel to compare vine wood with the sturdy trees of the forest. A vine may bear delicious fruit, yet its wood has no real strength. It cannot be carved into a peg to hang a pot, nor shaped into furniture. Stripped of grapes, it has no practical use. Verses 4–5 – Fuel for the Flames If ordinary vine wood is useless, charred vine wood is worse. “Behold, it is thrown into the fire for fuel,” and what survives the first blaze is quickly consumed by a second. Half-burnt, the stick is too brittle for crafting and too scorched for any good purpose except more fire. Verses 6–8 – Jerusalem Sentenced The LORD identifies the vine with the people of Jerusalem. As vine wood is useless, so the city—once chosen and blessed—has become unprofitable through rebellion. God pledges to “make the land desolate” and to set His face against them. Exile and devastation will be the refining fire they cannot escape. Ezekiel Chapter 15 portrays a stark allegory about a useless vine, which symbolizes Jerusalem. It conveys a strong message about the consequences of disobedience and the impending judgment of God. Through the graphic metaphor of a vine consumed by fire, Ezekiel prophesies the doom awaiting Jerusalem due to its wayward actions and lack of repentance. Historical Setting of Ezekiel’s Oracle • Date: Around 592–588 BC, during the eleven years between the first Babylonian deportation and Jerusalem’s final fall in 586 BC. • Audience: Jewish exiles already living by the Kebar River in Babylonia. They still pinned their hopes on Jerusalem’s survival. • Purpose: God uses vivid pictures to shatter false confidence. The vine analogy shows that status as God’s people does not guarantee immunity when faithfulness is absent. Understanding Vine Imagery in the Ancient Near East • Vines were everywhere in Judah’s hills. Terraced slopes, rock-hewn winepresses, and clay storage jars prove wine production was big business. • A healthy vine symbolized prosperity (Genesis 49:11-12; Micah 4:4), but an unfruitful vine pictured failure (Hosea 10:1). • Wood from a grapevine is thin and crooked. Even in ancient carpentry manuals, it is never listed as building material. This makes the LORD’s comparison sting: Israel is treasured for fruit, not for strength. Without fruit, nothing remains. Scriptural Echoes and Parallels • Isaiah 5:1-7 – The “Song of the Vineyard” shows God clearing stones, planting choice vines, yet harvesting only wild grapes. • Psalm 80:8-16 – A vine transplanted from Egypt covers the land but is later ravaged. • Jeremiah 2:21 – “I planted you a choice vine… how then have you turned before Me into the degenerate branches of a foreign vine?” • John 15:6 – Jesus personalizes Ezekiel’s picture: “If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.” Fruitlessness still invites fire. Archaeology: Terraces, Winepresses, and Vine Wood • Excavations at places like Beth-Shemesh and Lachish reveal 7th-century BC vineyard terraces, limestone winepresses, and grape seeds. • Charred wood samples confirm that vine stems burn hot but brief, leaving only ash. Ancient hearths used vine prunings for kindling—exactly the usage depicted in verse 4. • Recovered pegs and beams are cedar, cypress, or oak—never vine—supporting Ezekiel’s rhetorical question: “Can wood be taken from it to make anything?” (15:3). The Fire Motif: From Partial Scorching to Total Destruction 1. First blaze – Babylon’s earlier raids (605 and 597 BC) bruised but did not destroy Jerusalem. 2. Second blaze – The final siege of 586 BC would finish the job. 3. Concentrated heat – Fire in Scripture often shows both judgment and purification (Numbers 31:23; Malachi 3:3). Here it is primarily destructive because no fruit remains to preserve. Implications for Covenant People Then and Now • Privilege demands product: grapes, not merely leaves. • Once God removes protective hedges (Isaiah 5:5), the environment that nurtured blessing can quickly become an instrument of judgment. • Spiritual identity without obedience is like vine wood without grapes—disappointing and disposable. Hope Beyond Judgment Ezekiel 15 offers no explicit hope, yet the wider book does. After chapters of fire, Ezekiel 36–37 promises new hearts and living breath. Even scorched stubs can be grafted again by grace (Romans 11:23-24). Judgment is not God’s last word; fruitful vines can grow from ashes when people return to Him. Connections to Additional Scriptures John 15:1-8 Jesus expands on the metaphor of the vine, emphasizing the importance of abiding in Him to bear fruit. Matthew 7:17-20 Jesus teaches that a tree is recognized by its fruit, highlighting the importance of producing good fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 The fruit of the Spirit is described, providing a picture of what spiritual fruitfulness looks like. Teaching Points The Metaphor of the Vine Ezekiel 15:2-3 asks, Son of man, how is the wood of the vine better than that of a branch from any of the trees in the forest? Can wood be taken from it to make something useful? The vine is unique in that its primary purpose is to bear fruit, not to provide wood for construction or fuel. Judgment on Unfruitfulness In Ezekiel 15:6, the Lord declares, As the wood of the vine among the trees of the forest, which I have given to the fire for fuel, so I have given up the people of Jerusalem. This illustrates the judgment that comes upon those who fail to fulfill their God-given purpose. The Consequence of Unfaithfulness The chapter highlights the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness, serving as a warning to all believers about the dangers of spiritual barrenness. God's Expectation of Fruitfulness The passage underscores God's expectation for His people to be fruitful, reflecting His character and advancing His Kingdom. Practical Applications Evaluate Your Fruitfulness Regularly assess your spiritual life to ensure you are bearing fruit in keeping with repentance and faith (Matthew 3:8). Abide in Christ John 15:4-5 reminds us that apart from Christ, we can do nothing. Cultivate a close relationship with Him to ensure fruitfulness. Seek Spiritual Growth Engage in practices that promote spiritual growth, such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. Be a Light in Your Community Use your unique gifts and opportunities to impact those around you positively, reflecting the love and truth of Christ. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The speaker in the passage, who communicates with Ezekiel. In the Hebrew text, the name used is "YHWH," which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. The LORD is depicted as the one who judges and decides the fate of Jerusalem. 2. Ezekiel The prophet to whom the word of the LORD comes. Ezekiel is tasked with delivering God's messages to the people of Israel. His role is to convey the divine judgment and warnings to the Israelites. 3. The House of Israel Represented metaphorically as the vine in the passage. The vine is described as being useless for anything other than being burned, symbolizing the judgment and destruction that will come upon Jerusalem due to their unfaithfulness. In this chapter, the focus is on the metaphorical representation of the people of Jerusalem and their relationship with God, rather than on specific named individuals. Places Ezekiel 15 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. The chapter is a metaphorical passage where God compares Jerusalem to a useless vine. Since there are no specific places mentioned in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. The focus of Ezekiel 15 is on the symbolic representation of Jerusalem and its impending judgment due to unfaithfulness. If you have any other questions or need further information, feel free to ask! Events 1. The Parable of the Useless Vine The chapter begins with the word of the LORD coming to Ezekiel, presenting a parable about a vine. The LORD asks, "How is the wood of the vine better than any other branch among the trees of the forest?" (Ezekiel 15:2). This rhetorical question sets the stage for the comparison between the vine and other trees, emphasizing the vine's lack of utility. 2. The Vine's Lack of Utility The LORD continues by questioning the usefulness of the vine's wood, stating, "Is its wood taken to make something useful? Do people make pegs from it to hang things on?" (Ezekiel 15:3). This highlights the vine's inadequacy for practical purposes, unlike other types of wood. 3. The Vine as Fuel for Fire The LORD declares that the vine is only suitable for burning: "And after it is thrown on the fire as fuel and the fire burns both ends and chars the middle, is it then useful for anything?" (Ezekiel 15:4). This imagery underscores the vine's ultimate fate as fuel, symbolizing judgment. 4. The LORD's Judgment on Jerusalem The parable transitions to a direct application to Jerusalem: "Therefore, this is what the Lord GOD says: Like the wood of the vine among the trees of the forest, which I have given to the fire as fuel, so will I give up the people of Jerusalem" (Ezekiel 15:6). Here, the vine represents Jerusalem, destined for destruction due to its unfaithfulness. 5. The Consequence of Unfaithfulness The LORD concludes with a warning of impending judgment: "I will set My face against them. Although they have come out of the fire, the fire will still consume them. And you will know that I am the LORD, when I set My face against them" (Ezekiel 15:7). This emphasizes the certainty of divine judgment and the recognition of God's sovereignty. 6. The Desolation of the Land The chapter ends with a declaration of desolation: "I will make the land desolate because they have acted unfaithfully, declares the Lord GOD" (Ezekiel 15:8). This final statement reinforces the theme of judgment due to the people's unfaithfulness, resulting in the land's desolation. In this chapter, the Hebrew word for "vine" (גֶּפֶן, gephen) is used metaphorically to represent Jerusalem, illustrating its lack of fruitfulness and impending judgment. The parable serves as a stark warning to the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of their unfaithfulness to God. Lessons from Ezekiel 15 1. The Vine's Purpose In Ezekiel 15, we see a vivid metaphor where Israel is compared to a vine. The vine's primary purpose is to bear fruit. Without fruit, it is deemed useless, much like a piece of wood that cannot be used for anything constructive. This reminds us of our own purpose: to bear spiritual fruit. As Jesus said in John 15:5, "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit." Our lives should reflect the love, joy, peace, and other fruits of the Spirit, fulfilling our God-given purpose. 2. The Consequences of Unfruitfulness Ezekiel 15:4 states, "And after it is thrown on the fire as fuel and the fire burns both ends and chars the middle, is it then useful for anything?" This stark imagery serves as a warning about the consequences of unfruitfulness. Just as the vine is consumed by fire, so too can our lives face spiritual decay if we do not live in accordance with God's will. It's a call to examine our lives and ensure we are living fruitfully in Christ. 3. The Importance of Abiding in God The vine's strength and ability to bear fruit come from its connection to the source. Similarly, our spiritual vitality depends on our connection to God. Ezekiel 15 reminds us that without abiding in Him, we are like a vine without a purpose. As John 15:4 encourages, "Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me." 4. God's Sovereignty in Judgment Ezekiel 15 illustrates God's sovereignty and His righteous judgment. The chapter serves as a reminder that God is just and His judgments are fair. He knows the hearts of His people and acts accordingly. This should encourage us to live righteously, knowing that our actions are seen by a just and loving God who desires our repentance and growth. 5. The Call to Repentance The imagery of the vine being burned is a call to repentance. It is a reminder that God desires us to turn away from sin and return to Him. Ezekiel's message is clear: God is patient, but He also calls us to account. As 2 Peter 3:9 reassures us, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 6. The Value of Being Set Apart Ezekiel 15 highlights the distinctiveness of God's people. Just as a vine is set apart for a specific purpose, so are we called to be holy and set apart for God's work. This chapter encourages us to embrace our identity in Christ and live in a way that reflects His holiness and love to the world. 7. The Necessity of Spiritual Growth The vine metaphor in Ezekiel 15 underscores the necessity of spiritual growth. Just as a vine must grow and produce fruit, so must we grow in our faith and knowledge of God. This growth is essential for fulfilling our purpose and living a life that honors God. As 2 Peter 3:18 exhorts, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 8. The Reality of Divine Discipline Ezekiel 15 serves as a reminder of the reality of divine discipline. God's discipline is not meant to harm but to correct and guide us back to Him. It is an expression of His love and desire for us to live righteously. Hebrews 12:6 affirms, "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives." 9. The Assurance of God's Faithfulness Despite the warnings and judgments, Ezekiel 15 also assures us of God's faithfulness. He remains committed to His covenant and promises. Even when we fall short, God is faithful to forgive and restore us when we turn back to Him. Lamentations 3:22-23 beautifully reminds us, "Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!" 10. The Hope of Restoration Finally, Ezekiel 15 points us to the hope of restoration. While the chapter speaks of judgment, it also implies the possibility of renewal and restoration for those who repent. This hope is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who offers us new life and redemption. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" Let this hope inspire us to live faithfully and fruitfully in Him. Topics 1. The Worthlessness of the Vine (Ezekiel 15:1-3) The chapter begins with a metaphor comparing the wood of a vine to other types of wood. The Lord asks, "How is the wood of the vine better than any other branch among the trees of the forest?" (Ezekiel 15:2). The vine wood is deemed unsuitable for making anything useful, highlighting its lack of value when not bearing fruit. The Hebrew word for vine, "גֶּפֶן" (gephen), emphasizes the specific type of plant being referenced, which is often associated with Israel in biblical symbolism. 2. The Vine as Fuel for Fire (Ezekiel 15:4-5) The passage continues by stating that the vine wood is only useful as fuel for fire. "If it is thrown into the fire for fuel and the fire consumes both ends and chars the middle, is it then useful for anything?" (Ezekiel 15:4). This imagery underscores the idea that the vine, when not fulfilling its purpose of bearing fruit, is destined for destruction. The Hebrew root "אֵשׁ" (esh) for fire is used here, symbolizing judgment and purification. 3. Jerusalem's Fate Compared to the Vine (Ezekiel 15:6-8) The Lord declares that just as the vine is cast into the fire, so will He treat the inhabitants of Jerusalem. "Therefore, this is what the Lord GOD says: Like the wood of the vine among the trees of the forest, which I have given to the fire as fuel, so will I give up the people of Jerusalem" (Ezekiel 15:6). This serves as a warning of impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness. The Hebrew term "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) for Jerusalem is significant, as it represents the center of worship and covenant relationship with God, now facing consequences for its failure to live up to its calling. In summary, Ezekiel 15 uses the metaphor of a vine to illustrate the worthlessness of Israel when it fails to fulfill its purpose. The chapter serves as a warning of judgment, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and fruitfulness in the covenant relationship with God. Themes 1. The Worthlessness of the Vine The chapter begins with a comparison between the wood of a vine and the wood of other trees. The vine wood is described as being of little value for making anything useful. This theme highlights the idea that Israel, like the vine, has become unproductive and worthless in its failure to fulfill its purpose. ^“Son of man, how is the wood of the vine better than that of a branch which is among the trees of the forest?”^ (Ezekiel 15:2) 2. Judgment and Consequences The chapter emphasizes the inevitability of judgment due to Israel's unfaithfulness. The vine, which is not useful for making anything, is destined to be burned. This symbolizes the coming judgment upon Jerusalem for its sins. ^“Therefore, this is what the Lord GOD says: Like the wood of the vine among the trees of the forest, which I have consigned to the fire for fuel, so I will treat the people of Jerusalem.”^ (Ezekiel 15:6) 3. Divine Sovereignty and Justice The passage underscores God's sovereignty and justice in dealing with His people. The judgment is portrayed as a righteous response to Israel's failure to live up to its covenantal relationship with God. ^“I will set My face against them. Although they have come out of the fire, yet the fire will consume them. And you will know that I am the LORD, when I set My face against them.”^ (Ezekiel 15:7) 4. Recognition of God's Authority The ultimate purpose of the judgment is to lead the people to recognize and acknowledge God's authority and sovereignty. The repeated phrase "you will know that I am the LORD" serves as a reminder of God's desire for His people to understand His power and holiness. ^“And you will know that I am the LORD, when I set My face against them.”^ (Ezekiel 15:7) Prayer Points Pray for Fruitfulness Ask God to help you bear fruit in every area of your life, reflecting His character and advancing His Kingdom. Pray for Abiding Seek God's strength to remain in Christ, drawing nourishment and strength from Him daily. Pray for Repentance Confess any areas of unfruitfulness and ask for God's forgiveness and guidance to grow in those areas. Pray for the Church Lift up the global Church, asking God to empower His people to be fruitful and faithful witnesses in the world. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Ezekiel 15:2–3 reconcile the vine’s supposed worthlessness with other biblical passages celebrating vines as symbols of blessing? 2. Does the lack of historical or archaeological data supporting the vine metaphor undermine Ezekiel 15’s credibility? 3. Why does Ezekiel 15:6–8 imply a total judgment on Jerusalem if other scriptures promise divine restoration? 4. Could Ezekiel 15 conflict with covenant promises in earlier texts, suggesting inconsistencies in God’s character? 5. Is there any evidence that Ezekiel 15 was edited or added later, indicating multiple sources or authors? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the allegory of the vine in Ezekiel 15 resonate with you personally? 2. What makes the vine a fitting symbol for Jerusalem in this context? 3. How does the theme of 'uselessness' apply to your own spiritual life? 4. What do you think the fire symbolizes in this passage? How can this understanding apply to modern day living? 5. How can you prevent yourself from becoming an 'unfruitful vine' in God's eyes? 6. How does Ezekiel 15 challenge our understanding of God's judgment? 7. How can we apply the warnings of Ezekiel 15 in our lives today? 8. What are some practical ways to ensure that we bear fruit in our spiritual lives? 9. Can you identify any patterns or habits in your life that might align you with the vine's uselessness as depicted in this chapter? 10. What do the consequences faced by Jerusalem tell us about God’s perspective on disobedience? 11. How can this allegory teach us to appreciate the mercies and grace of God more deeply? 12. In what ways does this chapter challenge your understanding of repentance? 13. How can we reconcile God's love with His wrath as depicted in this chapter? 14. What lessons can current societies draw from the judgment faced by Jerusalem? 15. In the context of modern society, what are some ways in which people could be considered 'unfruitful vines'? 16. How does this chapter speak to the accountability of a nation or community in the eyes of God? 17. How does the imagery used in Ezekiel 15 help us comprehend the severity of God's judgment? 18. In the face of looming judgment, what actions should believers today take? 19. How does Ezekiel 15 inspire you to cultivate a more obedient relationship with God? 20. How can we use the message of Ezekiel 15 to evangelize to others and bring them into a fruitful relationship with God? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions