Ezekiel 24:20

So I answered them, "The word of the LORD came to me, saying:

Study Bible

So I answered them
This phrase indicates a response to an inquiry or a situation that required explanation. In the context of Ezekiel, the prophet often served as a mouthpiece for God, responding to the people of Israel. The Hebrew root for "answered" is עָנָה (anah), which can mean to respond, testify, or speak. This suggests a formal declaration, emphasizing the role of the prophet as a communicator of divine messages. Historically, prophets were often questioned by the people, seeking understanding of God's will, especially during times of crisis or judgment.

The word of the LORD
This phrase is central to the prophetic tradition, signifying a direct communication from God. The Hebrew term for "word" is דָּבָר (dabar), which can mean word, matter, or thing. It underscores the power and authority of God's communication. In the context of Ezekiel, "the word of the LORD" often brought messages of judgment, hope, or instruction. The phrase highlights the divine origin of the message, distinguishing it from human opinion or interpretation. It reflects the belief in the Bible as the inspired word of God, a cornerstone of Conservative Christian theology.

came to me
This indicates the personal reception of God's message by the prophet. The Hebrew verb בּוֹא (bo) means to come, enter, or bring. It suggests an active movement of God's word towards the prophet, emphasizing the initiative of God in revealing His will. In the historical context of Ezekiel, this personal reception was crucial, as it authenticated the prophet's message to the people. It underscores the intimate relationship between God and His chosen messengers, a theme prevalent throughout the prophetic books.

saying
The use of "saying" introduces the content of the divine message. The Hebrew root אָמַר (amar) means to say, speak, or declare. This word sets the stage for the specific instructions or revelations that follow. In the context of Ezekiel, what follows "saying" is often a direct quotation from God, carrying significant weight and authority. It reflects the belief that God's words are not only to be heard but also to be heeded and obeyed. This aligns with the Conservative Christian emphasis on the authority of Scripture and the importance of adhering to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is known for his vivid visions and symbolic acts. He serves as a mouthpiece for God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His will and judgments through His prophets.

3. The Israelites
The audience of Ezekiel's prophecies, who are in exile due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive by Babylon, serving as a backdrop for Ezekiel's prophecies.

5. Jerusalem
The city whose impending destruction is a central theme in Ezekiel's prophecies, symbolizing God's judgment on His people.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
Ezekiel's response underscores the authority and certainty of God's word. As believers, we are called to trust and obey God's revelations, even when they are difficult to understand or accept.

The Role of a Prophet
Ezekiel's role as a prophet is to communicate God's messages faithfully. This reminds us of the importance of being faithful messengers of God's truth in our own lives.

Judgment and Hope
While Ezekiel's message often centers on judgment, it also points to hope and restoration. We should remember that God's discipline is meant to lead us back to Him.

The Importance of Listening to God
The Israelites' failure to heed God's warnings through Ezekiel serves as a cautionary tale. We must be attentive to God's voice in our lives, through Scripture and prayer.

God's Sovereignty in History
The events surrounding Ezekiel's prophecies demonstrate God's control over history. This reassures us that God is sovereign over our personal circumstances as well.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's role as a prophet inform our understanding of the importance of delivering God's message accurately today?

2. In what ways can we see the authority of God's word in our own lives, and how should this influence our daily decisions?

3. How does the context of the Babylonian exile help us understand the gravity of Ezekiel's prophecies?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' response to God's warnings through Ezekiel, and how can we apply these lessons to our spiritual walk?

5. How does the theme of judgment and hope in Ezekiel's message encourage us in times of personal or communal trials?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25
This chapter provides context for the Babylonian exile, explaining the reasons for God's judgment on Jerusalem and the Israelites.

2 Kings 25
Describes the historical event of Jerusalem's fall, which Ezekiel prophesies about, highlighting the fulfillment of God's word.

Ezekiel 3
Details Ezekiel's calling as a prophet, emphasizing his role as a watchman for Israel, which is crucial for understanding his response in Ezekiel 24:20.

Leviticus 26
Outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for the covenantal context of Ezekiel's prophecies.