Ezekiel 21:1

And the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

Study Bible

Then
The word "then" serves as a temporal marker, indicating a continuation or sequence in the narrative. It suggests that what follows is a direct consequence or development from previous events. In the context of Ezekiel, this word underscores the ongoing communication between God and the prophet, emphasizing the immediacy and relevance of God's message to the current situation of Israel. Historically, this period was marked by turmoil and impending judgment, making the timing of God's word crucial for the people.

the word
In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which signifies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force. In the biblical context, "dabar" often conveys God's creative and authoritative power. The "word" of the LORD is not merely informative but transformative, carrying the weight of divine authority and purpose. It is through His word that God reveals His will and enacts His plans, reminding us of the power and reliability of Scripture in our lives.

of the LORD
The term "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God. This name is deeply significant, representing God's eternal, self-existent nature and His covenant relationship with His people. The use of "LORD" here emphasizes that the message Ezekiel receives is not from a distant deity but from the covenant-keeping God who is intimately involved with His people. It reassures believers of God's faithfulness and His active role in guiding and correcting His people.

came
The word "came" indicates movement and arrival, suggesting that the word of the LORD is not static but actively seeks out the prophet. This reflects the initiative of God in reaching out to humanity, demonstrating His desire to communicate and engage with His creation. It is a reminder of God's proactive love and His willingness to guide us through His word, even when we may not be seeking Him.

to me
The phrase "to me" personalizes the message, highlighting Ezekiel as the chosen recipient of God's revelation. It underscores the personal nature of God's communication, as He speaks directly to individuals to convey His will. For Ezekiel, this personal address signifies his role as a prophet and intermediary between God and the people. It reminds us that God knows us individually and desires a personal relationship with each of us, calling us to listen and respond to His voice.

saying
The word "saying" introduces the content of God's message, preparing the reader for the divine revelation that follows. It signifies that what is about to be communicated is not merely human opinion but the authoritative declaration of God. This word serves as a transition from the introduction to the substance of the prophecy, inviting us to pay close attention to the words of the LORD. It challenges us to approach Scripture with reverence and readiness to hear and obey God's voice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's message. His role is to convey God's warnings and judgments to the people of Israel.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His will and judgments through His prophets. In this context, He is delivering a message of impending judgment.

3. Babylonian Exile
The historical backdrop of Ezekiel's prophecies, where the Israelites are in captivity in Babylon due to their disobedience to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are chosen by God to deliver His messages, often involving warnings and calls to repentance. Understanding their role helps us appreciate the seriousness of God's communication.

God's Sovereignty
The phrase "the word of the LORD came" underscores God's active involvement in history and His authority over nations and events.

Listening to God's Word
Just as Ezekiel received God's word, we are called to be attentive to God's voice through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

Judgment and Mercy
While Ezekiel's message often involves judgment, it is also a call to repentance, reflecting God's desire for His people to return to Him.

Historical Context
Understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile helps us grasp the gravity of the message and the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Ezekiel as a prophet inform our understanding of how God communicates with His people today?

2. In what ways can we discern the "word of the LORD" in our own lives, and how should we respond when we believe God is speaking to us?

3. How does the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our understanding of the urgency and seriousness of Ezekiel's message?

4. What parallels can we draw between the messages given to Ezekiel and those given to other prophets like Jeremiah and Isaiah?

5. How can we apply the lessons of judgment and mercy found in Ezekiel's prophecies to our personal walk with God and our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:4-10
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah receives the word of the LORD, highlighting the role of prophets as God's messengers.

Isaiah 6:8-10
Isaiah's calling as a prophet parallels Ezekiel's, emphasizing the theme of divine commissioning to deliver God's message.

2 Kings 24:10-16
Provides historical context for the Babylonian exile, which is the setting for Ezekiel's prophecies.