Ezekiel 22:23

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

Study Bible

And the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies divine communication, a hallmark of prophetic literature. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just spoken words but also actions and events. The "word of the LORD" is a powerful, creative force, as seen in Genesis where God speaks creation into existence. This underscores the authority and reliability of the message Ezekiel is about to deliver. It is not merely human opinion but a divine mandate, emphasizing the seriousness with which the audience should receive it.

came to me
The phrase indicates a direct and personal encounter between God and the prophet. In Hebrew, "came" is "hayah," which can mean "to happen" or "to come to pass." This suggests that the word of the LORD is not static but dynamic, actively engaging with the prophet. Ezekiel, as a chosen vessel, receives this word, highlighting the intimate relationship between God and His prophets. This personal reception of God's word is a reminder of the unique role prophets play in conveying God's messages to His people.

saying
The use of "saying" introduces the content of the divine message. In Hebrew, "amar" is used, which is a common verb for speaking. This sets the stage for the forthcoming message, preparing the audience for the authoritative declaration that follows. It implies that what is to be said is not just for information but for transformation, calling the listeners to heed and respond to God's directives. The word "saying" serves as a bridge, connecting the divine source with the human recipient, ensuring that the message is clear and purposeful.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of God's messages, tasked with delivering them to the people of Israel.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His judgments and expectations through His prophets.

3. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel is prophesying, specifically the people in exile who are being called to account for their sins.

4. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a period of judgment and reflection for the people of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
God's word is authoritative and comes with the power to convict and transform. As believers, we must approach Scripture with reverence and a willingness to be changed by it.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets like Ezekiel serve as God's mouthpiece, delivering messages that are often difficult but necessary. We are called to listen to and discern the truth in God's messages, even when they challenge us.

The Call to Repentance
The context of Ezekiel's message is a call to repentance. We must examine our lives for areas of sin and turn back to God, seeking His forgiveness and guidance.

The Consequences of Sin
Israel's exile serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of sin. We must understand that our actions have repercussions and strive to live in obedience to God's commands.

Hope in God's Faithfulness
Despite the judgment, God's messages through Ezekiel also contain hope for restoration. We can trust in God's faithfulness to His promises, even in times of discipline.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of a prophet in the Old Testament, like Ezekiel, inform our understanding of how God communicates with His people today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are receptive to God's word and not hardening our hearts like the people of Israel?

3. How do the themes of judgment and repentance in Ezekiel 22:23 relate to the New Testament teachings on sin and grace?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to identify and turn away from sin in our own lives, drawing from the lessons in Ezekiel?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's faithfulness, even when facing the consequences of our actions, as seen in the broader context of Ezekiel's prophecies?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 23
Similar to Ezekiel, Jeremiah also receives the word of the LORD concerning the sins of the leaders and people of Israel, emphasizing the need for repentance.

Isaiah 1
Isaiah speaks of the rebellion and corruption of Israel, paralleling the themes of judgment and the call to righteousness found in Ezekiel.

Leviticus 26
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences Israel faces in Ezekiel's time.