What is the meaning of Ezekiel 22:1? Then • This small word links chapter 21’s sword prophecy to a fresh message. God’s revelation is timely, orderly, and never random (Ezekiel 21:1; Isaiah 28:10). • It reminds us that the Lord keeps speaking until His purpose is accomplished, just as He did with Samuel—“Then the LORD called again” (1 Samuel 3:6). • The flow underscores accountability: what follows builds on what has already been declared (Amos 3:7). the word of the LORD • Not human insight, but divine communication—authoritative, infallible, life-shaping (2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12). • The same expression introduced God’s covenant promises to Abram (Genesis 15:1) and warnings to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:4), showing consistency in God’s dealings. • God’s Word carries His character; when He speaks, He reveals holiness, justice, and mercy (Psalm 19:7-9). came to me • Ezekiel is the chosen conduit (Ezekiel 1:3). The verb stresses initiative from God, not the prophet (2 Peter 1:21). • Personal reception highlights responsibility: Ezekiel must hear before he can speak (Ezekiel 3:10-11). • It parallels Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:4) and Isaiah in the temple (Isaiah 6:8), reminding us God meets individuals to reach nations. saying • Signals that precise words, not vague impressions, are about to be delivered (Numbers 12:8). • What God says next (Ezekiel 22:2-31) exposes Jerusalem’s sin and announces impending judgment, yet even judgment carries the aim of purification (Malachi 3:2-3). • “Saying” also calls listeners to attention and response—“He who has ears, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15). summary Ezekiel 22:1 is more than an introductory clause; it anchors the entire chapter in God’s living, authoritative revelation. At a specific moment (“Then”), the Lord initiated communication (“the word of the LORD”), entrusted it to His prophet (“came to me”), and prepared a clear, verbal message (“saying”). The verse reassures us that Scripture records God’s exact words, spoken into real history, calling His people to hear, heed, and be transformed. |
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