Ezekiel 21
BSB1 And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2 “Son of man, set your face against Jerusalem and preach against the sanctuaries. Prophesy against the land of Israel 3 and tell her that this is what the LORD says: ‘I am against you, and I will draw My sword from its sheath and cut off from you both the righteous and the wicked. 4 Because I will cut off both the righteous and the wicked, My sword will be unsheathed against everyone from south to north. 5 Then all flesh will know that I, the LORD, have taken My sword from its sheath, not to return it again.’ 6 But you, son of man, groan! Groan before their eyes with a broken heart and bitter grief. 7 And when they ask, ‘Why are you groaning?’ you are to say, ‘Because of the news that is coming. Every heart will melt, and every hand will go limp. Every spirit will faint, and every knee will turn to water.’ Yes, it is coming and it will surely happen, declares the Lord GOD." 8 Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 9 “Son of man, prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord says: ‘A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished— 10 it is sharpened for the slaughter, polished to flash like lightning! Should we rejoice in the scepter of My son? The sword despises every such stick. 11 The sword is appointed to be polished, to be grasped in the hand. It is sharpened and polished, to be placed in the hand of the slayer. 12 Cry out and wail, O son of man, for the sword is wielded against My people; it is against all the princes of Israel! They are tossed to the sword with My people; therefore strike your thigh. 13 Surely testing will come! And what if even the scepter, which the sword despises, does not continue?’ declares the Lord GOD. 14 ‘So then, son of man, prophesy and strike your hands together. Let the sword strike two times, even three. It is a sword that slays, a sword of great slaughter closing in on every side! 15 So that their hearts may melt and many may stumble, I have appointed at all their gates a sword for slaughter. Yes, it is ready to flash like lightning; it is drawn for slaughter. 16 Slash to the right; set your blade to the left— wherever your blade is directed. 17 I too will strike My hands together, and I will satisfy My wrath.’ I, the LORD, have spoken." 18 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 19 “Now you, son of man, mark out two roads for the sword of the king of Babylon to take, both starting from the same land. And make a signpost where the road branches off to each city. 20 Mark out one road for the sword to come against Rabbah of the Ammonites, and another against Judah into fortified Jerusalem. 21 For the king of Babylon stands at the fork in the road, at the junction of the two roads, to seek an omen: He shakes the arrows, he consults the idols, he examines the liver. 22 In his right hand appears the portent for Jerusalem, where he is to set up battering rams, to call for the slaughter, to lift a battle cry, to direct the battering rams against the gates, to build a ramp, and to erect a siege wall. 23 It will seem like a false omen to the eyes of those who have sworn allegiance to him, but it will draw attention to their guilt and take them captive. 24 Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Because you have drawn attention to your guilt, exposing your transgressions, so that your sins are revealed in all your deeds—because you have come to remembrance—you shall be taken in hand. 25 And you, O profane and wicked prince of Israel, the day has come for your final punishment.’ 26 This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Remove the turban, and take off the crown. Things will not remain as they are: Exalt the lowly and bring low the exalted. 27 A ruin, a ruin, I will make it a ruin! And it will not be restored until the arrival of Him to whom it belongs, to whom I have assigned the right of judgment. ‘ 28 Now prophesy, son of man, and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says concerning the Ammonites and their contempt: ‘A sword! A sword is drawn for slaughter, polished to consume, to flash like lightning— 29 while they offer false visions for you and lying divinations about you— to be placed on the necks of the wicked who are slain, whose day has come, the time of their final punishment. 30 Return the sword to its sheath! In the place where you were created, in the land of your origin, I will judge you. 31 I will pour out My anger upon you; I will breathe the fire of My fury against you; I will hand you over to brutal men, skilled in destruction. 32 You will be fuel for the fire. Your blood will stain your own land. You will not be remembered, for I, the LORD, have spoken.’"
Study Notes — Ezekiel 21
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Ezekiel 21
- Themes from Ezekiel 21
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Ezekiel 21
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with God's instruction to Ezekiel to prophesy against the land of Israel, warning them of the sword of the Lord that will bring judgment and destruction upon them (Ezekiel 21:1-7). The prophet then speaks of the sharpened sword that will bring slaughter and destruction, and the people's idolatrous practices that have led to their downfall (Ezekiel 21:8-17). The chapter also speaks of the king of Babylon, who will come and destroy the land, and the people's leaders who will be punished for their wickedness (Ezekiel 21:18-27). The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, as God promises to restore His people and bring them back to their land (Ezekiel 21:28-32). Throughout the chapter, Ezekiel emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith, warning the people of the consequences of their sins and calling them to turn to God.
Context for the Chapter
Ezekiel chapter 21 is part of the larger prophetic message of the book of Ezekiel, which was written to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon. The chapter is closely tied to the historical context of the time, as the people of Israel were facing judgment and destruction at the hands of the Babylonians. The chapter is also closely tied to the theological themes of the book of Ezekiel, which emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as well as His mercy and faithfulness to His people.
Heart Application
As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of repentance and faith in our own lives. We are called to turn away from our sins and turn to God in obedience, trusting in His mercy and faithfulness to us. We are also reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and justice, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Ezekiel chapter 21 is a message of judgment and restoration, where God warns the people of Israel of the impending doom and destruction that will come upon them due to their sins. The chapter emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith, and promises restoration and redemption to those who turn to God. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and justice, and turning to Him in obedience and faith (Ezekiel 21:27-32).
Voices from the Church
“The sword of the Lord is a symbol of His justice and sovereignty, and is a reminder to us of the importance of repentance and faith.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The chapter's emphasis on God's sovereignty and justice is a reminder to us of the importance of trusting in His goodness and mercy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Prophecy (Ezekiel 21:1-7) — The chapter begins with God's instruction to Ezekiel to prophesy against the land of Israel, warning them of the sword of the Lord that will bring judgment and destruction upon them.
- The Sword of the Lord (Ezekiel 21:8-17) — The prophet then speaks of the sharpened sword that will bring slaughter and destruction, and the people's idolatrous practices that have led to their downfall.
- The King of Babylon (Ezekiel 21:18-27) — The chapter speaks of the king of Babylon, who will come and destroy the land, and the people's leaders who will be punished for their wickedness.
- The Message of Restoration (Ezekiel 21:28-32) — The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, promising that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land.
- Conclusion (Ezekiel 21:33-37) — The chapter concludes with a final warning to the people of Israel, calling them to repentance and faith, and promising judgment and destruction to those who refuse to turn to God.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as He warns the people of Israel of the impending doom and destruction that will come upon them due to their sins.
- The Importance of Repentance
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith, warning the people of the consequences of their sins and calling them to turn to God in obedience.
- The Mercy and Faithfulness of God
- The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, promising that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land, demonstrating His mercy and faithfulness to them.
- The Judgment of God
- The chapter speaks of the judgment of God, which will come upon the people of Israel due to their sins, and serves as a reminder to us of the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy.
Lessons from Ezekiel 21
- The Importance of Repentance — The chapter emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith, warning the people of the consequences of their sins and calling them to turn to God in obedience.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as He warns the people of Israel of the impending doom and destruction that will come upon them due to their sins.
- The Mercy and Faithfulness of God — The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, promising that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land, demonstrating His mercy and faithfulness to them.
- The Judgment of God — The chapter speaks of the judgment of God, which will come upon the people of Israel due to their sins, and serves as a reminder to us of the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy.
- The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and justice, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Themes from Ezekiel 21
- Judgment and Restoration — The chapter is a prophetic message of judgment and restoration, warning the people of Israel of the impending doom and destruction that will come upon them due to their sins, and promising restoration and redemption to those who turn to God.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as He warns the people of Israel of the impending doom and destruction that will come upon them due to their sins.
- The Importance of Repentance — The chapter emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith, warning the people of the consequences of their sins and calling them to turn to God in obedience.
- The Mercy and Faithfulness of God — The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, promising that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land, demonstrating His mercy and faithfulness to them.
- The Judgment of God — The chapter speaks of the judgment of God, which will come upon the people of Israel due to their sins, and serves as a reminder to us of the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the main theme of Ezekiel chapter 21, and how does it relate to the larger prophetic message of the book of Ezekiel?
- How does the chapter's emphasis on God's sovereignty and justice relate to the gospel message of salvation through faith in Christ?
- What is the significance of the sword of the Lord in the chapter, and how does it relate to the people's idolatrous practices?
- How does the chapter's message of restoration and redemption relate to the larger theological themes of the book of Ezekiel?
- What are some practical applications of the chapter's message of repentance and faith in our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Prophecy (Ezekiel 21:1-7)
| Ezekiel 21:1 | The chapter begins with God's instruction to Ezekiel to prophesy against the land of Israel, warning them of the sword of the Lord that will bring judgment and destruction upon them. |
| Ezekiel 21:2 | The prophet is instructed to set his face against the people and to prophesy against them, warning them of the impending doom and destruction that will come upon them. |
2. The Sword of the Lord (Ezekiel 21:8-17)
| Ezekiel 21:8 | The prophet then speaks of the sharpened sword that will bring slaughter and destruction, and the people's idolatrous practices that have led to their downfall. |
| Ezekiel 21:9 | The sword is a symbol of God's justice and sovereignty, and is a reminder to the people of the consequences of their sins. |
3. The King of Babylon (Ezekiel 21:18-27)
| Ezekiel 21:18 | The chapter speaks of the king of Babylon, who will come and destroy the land, and the people's leaders who will be punished for their wickedness. |
| Ezekiel 21:19 | The king of Babylon is a symbol of God's judgment and sovereignty, and is a reminder to the people of the consequences of their sins. |
4. The Message of Restoration (Ezekiel 21:28-32)
| Ezekiel 21:28 | The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, promising that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land. |
| Ezekiel 21:29 | The message of restoration is a reminder to the people of God's mercy and faithfulness to them, and is a call to them to turn to Him in obedience and faith. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical context of Ezekiel chapter 21?
The chapter was written during the Babylonian exile, and is a prophetic message of judgment and restoration to the people of Israel. The historical context is closely tied to the theological themes of the book of Ezekiel, which emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as well as His mercy and faithfulness to His people (Ezekiel 21:1-7).
What is the significance of the sword of the Lord in the chapter?
The sword is a symbol of God's justice and sovereignty, and is a reminder to the people of the consequences of their sins. It is also a symbol of God's judgment, which will come upon the people of Israel due to their sins (Ezekiel 21:8-17).
What is the message of restoration in the chapter?
The message of restoration is a promise that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land, demonstrating His mercy and faithfulness to them. It is a call to the people to turn to God in obedience and faith, and is a reminder to them of the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy (Ezekiel 21:28-32).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ezekiel 21:1 → Isaiah 13:1 | The prophecy against the land of Israel in Ezekiel 21:1 is similar to the prophecy against Babylon in Isaiah 13:1, emphasizing God's sovereignty and justice. |
| 2 | Ezekiel 21:8 → Deuteronomy 32:41-42 | The sharpened sword in Ezekiel 21:8 is similar to the sword of the Lord in Deuteronomy 32:41-42, which is a symbol of God's justice and sovereignty. |
| 3 | Ezekiel 21:18 → Jeremiah 25:9 | The king of Babylon in Ezekiel 21:18 is similar to the king of Babylon in Jeremiah 25:9, who is a symbol of God's judgment and sovereignty. |
| 4 | Ezekiel 21:28 → Isaiah 11:1-5 | The message of restoration in Ezekiel 21:28 is similar to the message of restoration in Isaiah 11:1-5, which promises that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land. |
| 5 | Ezekiel 21:1 → Matthew 24:1-31 | The prophecy against the land of Israel in Ezekiel 21:1 is similar to the prophecy against Jerusalem in Matthew 24:1-31, emphasizing God's sovereignty and justice. |
| 6 | Ezekiel 21:8 → Revelation 19:11-16 | The sharpened sword in Ezekiel 21:8 is similar to the sword of the Lord in Revelation 19:11-16, which is a symbol of God's justice and sovereignty. |
| 7 | Ezekiel 21:18 → Daniel 4:1-37 | The king of Babylon in Ezekiel 21:18 is similar to the king of Babylon in Daniel 4:1-37, who is a symbol of God's judgment and sovereignty. |
| 8 | Ezekiel 21:28 → Luke 21:20-24 | The message of restoration in Ezekiel 21:28 is similar to the message of restoration in Luke 21:20-24, which promises that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land. |
Sermons on Ezekiel 21
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 8 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear understanding of God's purpose in our lives. He warns that if we lose sight of this purpose, our Christian l |
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(Through the Bible) Ezekiel 21-25 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the significance of a sealed scroll with seven seals. The scroll represents the title deed to the earth, which was originally God's but was g |
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"Five Loaves and Two Fishes" Ch. 6:1-21 by Charles Alexander | In this sermon, the preacher delves into the significance of the miracles of the feeding of the five thousand and the walking on water in the Gospel of John, emphasizing the teachi |
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Born of God by T. Austin-Sparks | T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound nature of being 'Born of God,' drawing parallels between the unique birth of Jesus and the new birth of believers. He highlights that the n |
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The Signs of the Redeemer's Return by A.W. Pink | A.W. Pink emphasizes the signs indicating the imminent return of the Redeemer, urging believers to be vigilant and discerning of the times. He reflects on the historical expectatio |
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More Pearls From Philpot by J.C. Philpot | J.C. Philpot preaches about the deep-rooted sin of idolatry in the human heart, emphasizing the need to keep ourselves from idols as warned in 1 John 5:21. He describes how idolatr |
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Ezekiel 21:26 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith delivers a powerful sermon on Ezekiel 21:26, emphasizing the end of the kingdom of Israel and the conditional promise made to David regarding his descendants. He explai |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ezekiel 21
In this chapter, we see the Lord's judgment upon the land of Israel, which is a solemn warning to all people to repent and turn to God. The sword of the Lord is a symbol of His justice and sovereignty, and is a reminder to us of the consequences of our sins. The king of Babylon is a symbol of God's judgment and sovereignty, and is a reminder to us of the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy. The message of restoration is a promise that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land, demonstrating His mercy and faithfulness to them. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of repentance and faith, and are called to turn to God in obedience and faith, trusting in His sovereignty and justice. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Use of Symbolism
The chapter uses symbolism, such as the sword, to convey the message of judgment and destruction. The sword is a powerful symbol of God's justice and sovereignty.
The Emphasis on Repentance
The chapter emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith, warning the people of the consequences of their sins and calling them to turn to God in obedience.
The Message of Restoration
The chapter concludes with a message of hope and restoration, promising that God will restore His people and bring them back to their land.