Ezekiel 28:20

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

Study Bible

Then the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies a divine communication, a hallmark of prophetic literature. The Hebrew term for "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken word but a matter or thing. It underscores the authority and power inherent in God's communication. In the context of Ezekiel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile, this phrase reassures the exiles of God's ongoing involvement and sovereignty. The "word of the LORD" is not merely informative but transformative, carrying the weight of divine will and purpose.

came to me
The phrase "came to me" indicates a personal and direct revelation to the prophet Ezekiel. The Hebrew verb "hayah" suggests an occurrence or event, emphasizing that this is not a mere internal thought but an external, divine intervention. This personal encounter with God highlights the intimate relationship between the prophet and the Divine, a relationship that empowers Ezekiel to speak with authority to the people of Israel. It also serves as a reminder that God chooses specific individuals to convey His messages, underscoring the importance of obedience and readiness to receive His word.

saying
The word "saying" introduces the content of the divine message. In Hebrew, "amar" is used, which is a common verb for speech but here signifies the solemnity and importance of what follows. This sets the stage for the prophetic message, preparing the audience for a declaration that demands attention and response. The use of "saying" also implies continuity, as God's communication is ongoing and relevant to the current circumstances of the people. It invites the listener to engage with the message, reflecting on its implications for their lives and their relationship with God.

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 Israelites.

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

3. Tyre
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, the context of Ezekiel 28 involves prophecies against Tyre, a significant city-state known for its wealth and pride.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period during which Ezekiel prophesied, marked by the Israelites' captivity in Babylon.

5. Prophecy
The act of conveying God's messages, often involving future events or divine judgments.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
God's word is authoritative and comes directly from Him, as seen in the phrase "the word of the LORD came to me." Believers should approach Scripture with reverence and obedience.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets like Ezekiel serve as God's mouthpieces, delivering His messages faithfully. Christians are called to be faithful witnesses of God's truth in their own contexts.

Judgment and Accountability
The context of Ezekiel 28 involves judgment against Tyre, reminding us that God holds nations and individuals accountable for their actions. We should live with an awareness of God's justice.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecies against Tyre and other nations demonstrate God's sovereignty over all nations. Believers can trust in God's ultimate control over world events.

The Importance of Listening to God
Just as Ezekiel received and delivered God's word, Christians are encouraged to listen to God through prayer and Scripture, seeking His guidance in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Ezekiel's role as a prophet help us appreciate the authority of the messages he delivered?

2. In what ways can we act as faithful witnesses of God's truth in our daily lives, similar to Ezekiel's prophetic ministry?

3. How does the theme of judgment against Tyre challenge us to examine our own lives and the values of our society?

4. What comfort can we find in God's sovereignty over nations, especially in times of global uncertainty?

5. How can we cultivate a habit of listening to God, and what practical steps can we take to ensure we are attentive to His guidance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 3:16-21
This passage describes Ezekiel's role as a watchman, emphasizing his responsibility to deliver God's messages, similar to the context of Ezekiel 28:20.

Isaiah 13-23
These chapters contain oracles against various nations, paralleling the prophecies against Tyre and other nations in Ezekiel.

Jeremiah 1:4-10
Jeremiah's call as a prophet shares similarities with Ezekiel's, highlighting the divine commissioning and authority of God's messengers.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes of judgment against proud and wealthy cities like Tyre in Ezekiel.