Ezekiel 20:2
Then came the word of the LORD unto me, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְהִ֥י
H1961
וַיְהִ֥י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 5
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
דְבַר
Then came the word
H1697
דְבַר
Then came the word
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
2 of 5
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
Historical Context
Prophets often delivered unwelcome messages. The elders sought comfort; God provided conviction. This pattern appears throughout Scripture—God addresses real needs, not felt needs; root issues, not surface symptoms. True prophecy confronts rather than flatters.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we respond when God's word addresses different issues than we brought to Him?
- What does it mean to truly seek God rather than seek confirmation of our preferences?
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Analysis & Commentary
'Then came the word of the LORD unto me, saying.' This formula introduces God's response. Rather than answering the elders' question, God will deliver a comprehensive indictment of Israel's historical rebellion. The response isn't what they expected or wanted—not reassurance but confrontation with persistent pattern of unfaithfulness.