Ezekiel 20:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezekiel 20:3
3 Son of man, speak unto the elders of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Are ye come to enquire of me? As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will not be enquired of by you.
Chapter Context
Ezekiel 20 is a prophetic vision chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, discipleship, covenant. Written during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-570 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ministered to exiles in Babylon with visions of God's glory and future restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezekiel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezekiel 20:3
3 Son of man, speak unto the elders of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Are ye come to enquire of me? As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will not be enquired of by you.
Analysis
'Son of man, speak unto the elders of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Are ye come to enquire of me? As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will not be enquired of by you.' God's shocking refusal to answer. The oath formula 'As I live' emphasizes certainty. 'I will not be enquired of by you' rejects their consultation. The reason becomes clear in subsequent verses: persistent idolatry makes their inquiry hypocritical. God won't play along with religious pretense while they harbor rebellion.
Historical Context
This echoes other instances where God refused to answer due to sin: Saul consulting Samuel's spirit (1 Samuel 28), God's silence to Saul (1 Samuel 28:6), and refusal to hear Israel's prayers (Isaiah 1:15, Jeremiah 11:11). Unconfessed sin blocks communion with God.
Reflection
- What attitudes or sins block our prayers and seeking God?
- How do we move from religious formality to genuine repentance that opens communication with God?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References God: Micah 3:7
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 28:9