And the Spirit of the LORD fell upon me, and said unto me, Speak; Thus saith the LORD; Thus have ye said, O house of Israel: for I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them.
God declares: "I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them." The Hebrew yada (יָדַע, "know") indicates intimate, comprehensive knowledge. Nothing escapes divine omniscience—thoughts, motives, and secret counsels all lie open before God (Hebrews 4:13). This knowledge isn't merely informational but judicial; God judges not just actions but heart attitudes. The phrase warns against hypocrisy that maintains external conformity while harboring inward rebellion. Jesus similarly condemned Pharisees whose hearts contradicted their religious performances (Matthew 23:25-28). The Reformed emphasis on God's exhaustive knowledge undergirds both the comfort of providence and the terror of judgment.
Historical Context
Ezekiel prophesied against Jerusalem's leaders (592 BC) who plotted political alliances with Egypt rather than trusting God. These princes thought their secret counsels were hidden, but God revealed their inner thoughts to Ezekiel. The leaders' false confidence despite impending judgment exemplifies the self-deception of hardened hearts. Archaeological discoveries including the Lachish letters reveal the political intrigues of this period as Judah's leaders sought survival through alliances rather than repentance. God's declaration of omniscience exposed their folly and warned that no conspiracy could succeed against divine purposes.
Questions for Reflection
How does God's perfect knowledge of our thoughts challenge our tendency toward secret sins and hidden compromises?
What comfort does divine omniscience provide for believers trusting in God's providential care?
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Analysis & Commentary
God declares: "I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them." The Hebrew yada (יָדַע, "know") indicates intimate, comprehensive knowledge. Nothing escapes divine omniscience—thoughts, motives, and secret counsels all lie open before God (Hebrews 4:13). This knowledge isn't merely informational but judicial; God judges not just actions but heart attitudes. The phrase warns against hypocrisy that maintains external conformity while harboring inward rebellion. Jesus similarly condemned Pharisees whose hearts contradicted their religious performances (Matthew 23:25-28). The Reformed emphasis on God's exhaustive knowledge undergirds both the comfort of providence and the terror of judgment.