What is the meaning of Ezekiel 21:2? Son of man - The title reminds Ezekiel that he is a human spokesman commissioned by the Sovereign LORD. - It underscores the gap between the infinite God and His finite messenger, keeping the focus on divine authority rather than personal insight (Ezekiel 2:1, “He said to me, ‘Son of man, stand on your feet and I will speak with you.’”). - Like other prophets called “son of man” (Daniel 8:17), Ezekiel bears a weighty assignment: speak exactly what God says, with no dilution or compromise. Set your face against Jerusalem - “Set your face” pictures steadfast resolve—Ezekiel must aim his full attention toward the city God had once chosen for His name (2 Chronicles 6:6). - The Lord’s prophet is not negotiating but declaring certain judgment, echoing Jeremiah 21:10, “For I have set My face against this city for harm and not for good.” - Jerusalem’s privileged status does not shield it when covenant faithfulness is abandoned (Luke 13:34-35 shows the same principle in Christ’s lament centuries later). Preach against the sanctuaries - “Sanctuaries” include the temple precincts and any so-called holy places that had become centers of idolatry (Ezekiel 8 details abominations inside the temple itself). - God’s word through Ezekiel exposes hypocrisy: external religion cannot substitute for heartfelt obedience (Isaiah 1:11-15; Jeremiah 7:4). - By commanding rebuke of the very house that once radiated His glory (1 Kings 8:10-11), the LORD demonstrates that holiness is tied to His presence, not to stone and gold. Prophesy against the land of Israel - Judgment is comprehensive; not only city and sanctuary but the whole land will feel the sword (Ezekiel 7:2, “Son of man, this is what the Lord GOD says to the land of Israel: The end! The end is upon the four corners of the land.”). - The language recalls covenant warnings: if Israel breaks faith, “the land will vomit you out” (Leviticus 18:28) and “you will be uprooted from the land” (Deuteronomy 28:63-64). - God’s purpose is corrective as well as punitive—He will purge rebellion so a remnant can one day return (Ezekiel 11:17-20). summary Ezekiel 21:2 calls a mortal prophet to deliver God’s unwavering verdict: Jerusalem, its corrupted worship centers, and the entire land stand under divine judgment because of persistent sin. The verse reinforces that position, privilege, and ritual cannot shield anyone from the holy standards revealed in Scripture. Yet even in announcing wrath, God is working toward eventual restoration for those who repent and honor His covenant. |
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