In the prophetic book of Ezekiel, God poses a significant question to the prophet that serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative and carries profound theological implications. This question is found in Ezekiel 37:3, within the context of the vision of the Valley of Dry Bones. The passage reads: "Then He asked me, 'Son of man, can these bones live?' And I answered, 'O Lord GOD, You alone know.'" (Ezekiel 37:3).

Context and Background

Ezekiel, a priest and prophet, was among the Jewish exiles in Babylon following the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. His ministry was marked by vivid visions and symbolic acts intended to convey God's messages to the people of Israel. The vision of the Valley of Dry Bones occurs in a period of despair and hopelessness for the exiled Israelites, who felt cut off and lifeless, much like the dry bones depicted in the vision.

The Vision of the Valley of Dry Bones

In Ezekiel 37:1-14, God transports Ezekiel in a vision to a valley filled with dry bones, symbolizing the house of Israel. The bones are described as "very dry," indicating a state of utter desolation and death. God’s question to Ezekiel, "Can these bones live?" challenges the prophet to consider the possibility of restoration and life in a seemingly hopeless situation.

Theological Significance

1. Divine Sovereignty and Omniscience: Ezekiel's response, "O Lord GOD, You alone know," acknowledges God's ultimate authority and knowledge. It reflects a recognition that human understanding is limited, and only God possesses the power to bring life from death. This underscores the theme of divine sovereignty throughout the book of Ezekiel.

2. Hope and Restoration: The question and subsequent vision serve as a powerful metaphor for the restoration of Israel. Despite their current state of exile and spiritual death, God promises to breathe new life into the nation. This is further emphasized in Ezekiel 37:5-6, where God declares, "I will cause breath to enter you, and you will come to life."

3. Resurrection Imagery: The imagery of dry bones coming to life foreshadows the Christian doctrine of resurrection. It points to the transformative power of God, who can bring life from death, both physically and spiritually. This vision is often seen as a precursor to the New Testament teachings on resurrection and eternal life through Jesus Christ.

4. Prophetic Role and Human Agency: Ezekiel's role in the vision highlights the partnership between divine initiative and human agency. God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, illustrating that while God is the source of life, He often chooses to work through human instruments to accomplish His purposes.

Implications for Israel and the Church

For the exiled Israelites, God's question and the vision of the Valley of Dry Bones offered a message of hope and assurance that their covenant relationship with God would be restored. It affirmed that despite their current circumstances, God had not abandoned them and would fulfill His promises.

For the Christian Church, this passage serves as a reminder of God's power to revive and restore. It encourages believers to trust in God's ability to bring new life to seemingly dead situations, whether in personal circumstances or within the broader context of the Church's mission in the world.

In summary, God's question to Ezekiel, "Can these bones live?" is a profound inquiry that invites reflection on divine power, hope, and the promise of restoration. It challenges believers to trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to bring life from death, both in the historical context of Israel and in the ongoing life of the Church.