Ezekiel 11:3

They are saying, 'Is not the time near to build houses? The city is the cooking pot, and we are the meat.'

Study Bible

They are saying
This phrase introduces the thoughts and intentions of the people being addressed. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here is "אֹמְרִים" (omrim), which is in the present tense, indicating an ongoing action. This suggests a persistent attitude or belief among the people. Historically, this reflects the rebellious nature of the Israelites during Ezekiel's time, who often resisted prophetic warnings and divine instructions. The phrase sets the stage for understanding the mindset of those who are in opposition to God's message.

Is not the time near
The phrase questions the immediacy of a significant event. In Hebrew, "קָרוֹב" (qarov) means "near" or "close." This reflects a common skepticism or disbelief in the prophetic warnings about impending judgment. The people are questioning the urgency of the prophet's message, perhaps out of complacency or disbelief. This skepticism is a recurring theme in the Bible, where people often doubt the immediacy of God's promises or warnings, leading to a lack of repentance and preparedness.

to build houses?
This phrase implies a sense of normalcy and long-term planning, which contrasts with the urgency of the prophetic warning. The Hebrew word "בָּתִּים" (batim) means "houses," symbolizing stability, security, and future planning. In the context of Ezekiel's prophecy, the people are focused on their own plans and security rather than heeding the warning of impending judgment. This reflects a broader biblical theme where human plans are often at odds with divine plans, emphasizing the need for trust and obedience to God's timing and purposes.

This city is the cooking pot
The metaphor of a "cooking pot" (Hebrew: "סִיר" - sir) is significant. It suggests a place of containment and safety, as a pot holds its contents securely. However, in the context of Ezekiel's prophecy, it is an ironic metaphor. The people of Jerusalem believed they were safe within the city's walls, much like ingredients in a pot. Yet, the metaphor also implies impending judgment, as the pot will be subjected to heat. This dual imagery serves as a warning that their perceived security is false, and judgment is imminent.

and we are the meat
The phrase "we are the meat" (Hebrew: "בָּשָׂר" - basar) completes the metaphor. Meat within a pot is subject to cooking, symbolizing the people's vulnerability to the coming judgment. While they see themselves as the choice pieces, secure and protected, the reality is that they are about to face the heat of God's judgment. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the false security in human strength and the need for reliance on God. It underscores the prophetic message that true safety is found not in physical walls or human plans, but in obedience to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the one receiving and conveying God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The Elders of Israel
Leaders among the exiles who are being addressed in this passage. They are part of the group that Ezekiel is prophesying against.

3. Jerusalem
The city referred to as "the pot," symbolizing a place of supposed safety and security for its inhabitants.

4. The Exile
The context of this prophecy is during the Babylonian exile, a period of great turmoil and judgment for the Israelites.

5. The False Prophets
Those who are misleading the people with false assurances of peace and security.

Teaching Points

False Security
The Israelites believed they were safe within Jerusalem, much like meat in a pot. This false sense of security can lead to complacency and ignoring God's warnings.

Discernment Against False Prophets
Believers must be vigilant against teachings that promise peace and prosperity without repentance and obedience to God.

Understanding God's Timing
The phrase "Is not the time near to build houses?" reflects a misunderstanding of God's timing. Trusting in God's plan requires patience and faith, even when circumstances are difficult.

Judgment and Hope
While this passage speaks of judgment, it also serves as a reminder of the hope and restoration that God promises to those who remain faithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the pot and meat in Ezekiel 11:3 challenge the Israelites' perception of safety and security?

2. In what ways can we discern between true and false teachings in our own lives, similar to the false prophets in Ezekiel's time?

3. How does understanding God's timing, as seen in this passage, affect our approach to life's challenges and decisions?

4. What parallels can you draw between the situation in Ezekiel 11:3 and the messages in Jeremiah 29 regarding the exile?

5. How can we apply the lessons of judgment and hope from Ezekiel 11:3 to our personal spiritual journey today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29
Jeremiah's letter to the exiles, which includes God's instructions to build houses and settle in Babylon, contrasts with the false hope of immediate return to Jerusalem.

Ezekiel 24
The imagery of the pot is revisited, where God uses it to symbolize judgment rather than safety.

Isaiah 30
The theme of false security and reliance on human wisdom rather than God's guidance is echoed.