Ezekiel 13:21

I will also tear off your veils and deliver My people from your hands, so that they will no longer be prey in your hands. Then you will know that I am the LORD.

Study Bible

I will tear off your veils
The phrase "I will tear off your veils" is a vivid metaphor used by God through the prophet Ezekiel. In the Hebrew context, the word for "veils" (Hebrew: "masak") can refer to coverings or disguises. These veils symbolize deception and falsehood propagated by false prophets. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, veils could also signify mystery or hidden truths. By declaring that He will tear them off, God is asserting His power to expose lies and reveal truth. This act of unveiling is a divine intervention to strip away deceit and bring clarity to His people.

and deliver My people from your hands
The phrase "and deliver My people from your hands" emphasizes God's protective and redemptive nature. The Hebrew word for "deliver" (Hebrew: "natsal") conveys the idea of rescue or snatching away from danger. This reflects God's commitment to safeguarding His people from the harmful influence of false prophets. Historically, Israel often found itself ensnared by misleading leaders, but God's promise to deliver them underscores His sovereignty and faithfulness. It is a reassurance that no matter the deception, God will intervene to save His chosen ones.

and they will no longer be in your grasp
The phrase "and they will no longer be in your grasp" further illustrates God's liberating power. The imagery of being in someone's "grasp" suggests control or captivity. In the context of Ezekiel, false prophets had a hold over the people, leading them astray with false visions and divinations. God's promise to free His people from such a grasp is a declaration of His authority over all spiritual and physical bondage. It is a reminder that God's deliverance is complete and final, breaking the chains of deception and restoring freedom to His people.

Then you will know that I am the LORD
The concluding phrase "Then you will know that I am the LORD" is a recurring theme in Ezekiel, emphasizing the recognition of God's sovereignty. The Hebrew word for "know" (Hebrew: "yada") implies an intimate understanding or acknowledgment. This statement serves as both a warning and a promise. For the false prophets, it is a warning of impending judgment and exposure. For the faithful, it is a promise of God's ultimate revelation and vindication. This acknowledgment of God as the LORD is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people, affirming His identity and authority as the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. False Prophets
Individuals in Israel who claimed to speak for God but led the people astray with lies and deceit.

3. Veils
Symbolic of the deceptive practices used by false prophets to ensnare and manipulate the people.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who reveals His power and authority through judgment and deliverance.

5. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who were often led astray by false teachings but are promised deliverance by God.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Spiritual Leadership
Believers must be vigilant and discerning about who they follow and listen to, ensuring that teachings align with Scripture.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God is sovereign and will ultimately expose deceit and deliver His people from falsehood, affirming His justice and authority.

The Danger of Deception
False teachings can lead believers astray, making it crucial to remain grounded in the truth of God's Word.

The Assurance of Deliverance
God's promise to deliver His people from deception is a source of hope and assurance for believers facing spiritual challenges.

Knowing God Through His Actions
God's interventions in history, such as delivering His people from false prophets, reveal His character and deepen our understanding of Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we identify false prophets or teachers in today's context, and what steps can we take to protect ourselves from their influence?

2. In what ways does God's promise to "tear off your veils" demonstrate His commitment to truth and justice?

3. How does the theme of deliverance in Ezekiel 13:21 relate to the broader account of God's salvation plan throughout the Bible?

4. What practical measures can we implement in our daily lives to ensure we are not led astray by deceptive teachings?

5. How does understanding God's actions in Ezekiel 13:21 enhance our relationship with Him and our trust in His sovereignty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 23
This chapter also addresses false prophets and their misleading messages, emphasizing God's disapproval and the consequences of their deceit.

Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus warns about false prophets, describing them as wolves in sheep's clothing, and emphasizes the importance of discerning their true nature by their fruits.

2 Peter 2:1-3
Peter warns the early church about false teachers who will introduce destructive heresies, similar to the false prophets in Ezekiel's time.