Ezekiel 12:26

Analysis & Commentary

Another prophetic word comes: 'Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying.' This formula introduces yet another oracle addressing skepticism. The repetition emphasizes God's patience and thoroughness in warning. Multiple oracles on similar themes (delayed judgment, false prophets, certainty of fulfillment) ensure comprehensive testimony removing all excuse.

The phrase 'again' (vayehi, וַיְהִי) indicates continued revelation—God persistently speaks to address ongoing issues. The skepticism addressed in following verses required repeated confrontation. God doesn't give one warning and cease; He multiplies witnesses, demonstrating both patience and ensuring thorough condemnation of impenitence.

From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates God's common grace extending to those under judgment. Even covenant-breakers receive repeated warnings, opportunities for repentance. This demonstrates that when judgment comes, it's thoroughly deserved—no one can claim insufficient warning. God's justice is vindicated by exhaustive testimony before executing sentence.

Historical Context

The historical context shows widespread skepticism among exiles about prophetic warnings. They'd heard predictions of Jerusalem's fall for years, yet the city stood. This created mocking dismissal of prophecy as false or irrelevant to their generation. Similar patterns appear throughout history—prolonged warnings create complacency rather than urgency. Jesus warned of similar attitudes before final judgment (Matthew 24:48-51, 2 Peter 3:3-4).

Questions for Reflection

• How does God's pattern of repeated warnings demonstrate both His patience and His justice?
• What responsibility do people bear when they receive multiple warnings but persist in unbelief?
• In what ways does human skepticism about divine warnings reveal hard-heartedness rather than wisdom?