What is the meaning of Ezekiel 15:1? Then • This single word links what follows to what has already been revealed. The Lord has just finished confronting Judah’s elders over idolatry (Ezekiel 14), and “then” alerts us to a fresh installment in the same unfolding conversation. • Scripture often uses similar transitions to mark God’s continuing dialogue with His people (cf. “After these things” in Genesis 15:1; Revelation 4:1). • “Then” reminds us that God’s dealings with us are orderly and purposeful, not random (Romans 8:28). The word • What Ezekiel is about to hear is not a dream, impression, or opinion; it is “the word,” a concrete, verbal revelation (Isaiah 55:10-11). • Throughout the book this phrase occurs repeatedly (Ezekiel 1:3; 6:1; 12:1), underscoring the consistency of God’s communication. • Because it is God’s word, it carries the same authority and reliability affirmed elsewhere (2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12). of the LORD • The source is “the LORD” (YHWH), Israel’s covenant-keeping God (Exodus 3:14-15). • His covenant name stresses both His self-existence and His faithfulness (Malachi 3:6). • The authority behind the forthcoming parable about the useless vine (Ezekiel 15:2-8) rests not in Ezekiel’s creativity but in the Lord’s own character (Psalm 33:9). came to me • God initiates; Ezekiel only receives. This highlights the prophet’s role as a conduit, not an originator (2 Peter 1:21). • “Came” shows God’s closeness—He draws near to speak specifically to His servant (Ezekiel 1:3; Amos 3:7). • By recording that the word “came,” Ezekiel testifies to a real moment in real time, reinforcing the historicity of the message. saying • The verb points forward: God is about to speak sentences that must be heard and heeded (Jeremiah 7:25; John 12:49-50). • It signals that what follows (Ezekiel 15:2-8) is not mere commentary but divine proclamation demanding response (Revelation 2:7). • The participle “saying” keeps the focus on God’s active voice, reminding us that His word still speaks today (Hebrews 3:7-8). summary Ezekiel 15:1 is more than an introductory line. Each phrase underscores key truths: God speaks in sequence and purpose (“Then”); His message is concrete and authoritative (“the word”); it originates from the covenant Lord Himself (“of the LORD”); it is delivered personally to a chosen servant (“came to me”); and it is meant to be heard and obeyed (“saying”). Before we even reach the parable of the vine, verse 1 teaches that every prophetic warning rests on the sure, living voice of God who still calls His people to listen and respond. |
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