Ezekiel 24:26

on that day a fugitive will come and tell you the news.

Study Bible

on that day
This phrase signifies a specific, divinely appointed time. In the Hebrew context, "that day" often refers to a moment of significant prophetic fulfillment or judgment. It is a reminder of God's sovereign control over history and His ability to orchestrate events according to His divine plan. The phrase calls believers to trust in God's timing, understanding that He sees the end from the beginning and works all things for His purposes.

a fugitive
The term "fugitive" here is translated from the Hebrew word "paliṭ," which refers to someone who has escaped or survived a calamity. In the context of Ezekiel, this fugitive is a survivor of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. This word underscores the severity of the judgment that has befallen Jerusalem, as only a few would escape to bring news. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the mercy He extends even in judgment by preserving a remnant.

will come
The phrase "will come" indicates the certainty of the event. It is not a matter of if, but when. This assurance reflects the prophetic nature of Ezekiel's message, emphasizing that God's words through His prophets are reliable and will come to pass. For believers, this is a call to faith in the promises and warnings of God, knowing that His word is true and steadfast.

to tell you
The purpose of the fugitive's arrival is "to tell you," highlighting the importance of communication and testimony. In the ancient world, news was often conveyed by word of mouth, and the arrival of a messenger was significant. This phrase suggests the role of the prophet and the importance of bearing witness to God's actions. It encourages believers to be attentive to the messages God sends through His Word and His messengers, and to be faithful in sharing the truth with others.

the news
The "news" refers to the report of Jerusalem's fall. In Hebrew, the word used can also mean "tidings" or "report," indicating a significant announcement. This news is both a fulfillment of prophecy and a catalyst for change. It serves as a moment of realization for the exiles, confirming Ezekiel's prophecies and prompting a response of repentance and renewed faith. For contemporary believers, it is a reminder of the importance of being informed by God's truth and allowing it to transform our lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God, Ezekiel is the central figure in this book, delivering God's messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

2. The Fugitive
This refers to a messenger who escapes the destruction of Jerusalem to bring news to Ezekiel. The term "fugitive" in Hebrew is "pali?," which implies someone who has escaped or survived a calamity.

3. Jerusalem
The city of Jerusalem is central to this prophecy, as its fall is the event being reported. The destruction of Jerusalem is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, symbolizing God's judgment.

4. Babylonian Exile
The context of this passage is the Babylonian exile, a period when the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians, marking a time of judgment and reflection for the nation.

5. The Day of the Lord
This phrase often refers to a time of divine intervention and judgment. In this context, it is the day when the prophecy of Jerusalem's fall is fulfilled.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Word
God's prophecies, as delivered through His prophets, are certain and will come to pass. This should encourage believers to trust in the reliability of Scripture.

The Role of Messengers
God often uses individuals to deliver His messages. We should be attentive to the ways God might use us to communicate His truth to others.

Judgment and Hope
While the fall of Jerusalem was a judgment, it also set the stage for future restoration. Believers can find hope in God's redemptive plans even amidst judgment.

The Importance of Being Prepared
Just as the Israelites were warned of impending judgment, we are called to be spiritually prepared for the return of Christ and the final judgment.

The Impact of Sin
The destruction of Jerusalem serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of sin and the importance of repentance and obedience to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the fugitive in Ezekiel 24:26 illustrate the importance of being a faithful messenger of God's truth?

2. In what ways does the fall of Jerusalem serve as a warning for us today regarding the consequences of disobedience to God?

3. How can we apply the certainty of God's Word, as seen in the fulfillment of Ezekiel's prophecy, to our daily lives and decision-making?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment of Jerusalem and the future judgment described in the New Testament?

5. How can we find hope in God's redemptive plans, even when facing difficult or seemingly hopeless situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25
This chapter provides a historical account of the fall of Jerusalem, which is the event being reported by the fugitive in Ezekiel 24:26.

Ezekiel 33:21-22
These verses describe the fulfillment of the prophecy when the fugitive arrives to report the fall of Jerusalem, confirming Ezekiel's earlier prophecies.

Jeremiah 39
Jeremiah also prophesies about the fall of Jerusalem, providing a parallel account to Ezekiel's prophecy.