Definition: And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from the Book of Ezekiel! “And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying…” This is a very short and powerful opening to a passage about God's judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “The Word of the Lord” : This refers to God speaking directly to someone – usually a prophet or leader. It's not just random talking; it’s a direct message from Him. “…came unto me” : This is a bit tricky. "Came" can mean to appear , to arrive , or even to be sent . In this context, it means God was speaking to Ezekiel, the prophet of God at the time. So, what’s the main point? God is sending a message – a warning or instruction – to Ezekiel. The verse sets up the beginning of a story about God's plan to deal with something wrong in Israel. What was happening before this verse? Ezekiel was experiencing a vision, and he was receiving a message from God that involved a special event – a demonic being named Bildad who was leading people to worship Baal. God needed to stop this and show the people the truth. In short: This verse is like the beginning of a story where God is confronting a problem and setting in motion a plan to correct it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another specific verse from Ezekiel? Give you some context about what was happening in Israel at this time?

Definition: Though Noah, Daniel, and Job, [were] in it, [as] I live, saith the Lord GOD, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall [but] deliver their own souls by their righteousness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 14:20. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising one! Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God's plan for those who are truly righteous – people who live in a way that pleases Him. It speaks of a specific group of people being spared from harm, while others face significant consequences. Let’s unpack it part by part: “Though Noah, Daniel, and Job, [were] in it…” - This sets the scene. It's talking about a specific group of individuals – Noah, Daniel, and Job – who were all deeply troubled and facing difficult situations. They’re involved in something that will be challenging for them. “…as I live, saith the Lord GOD…” - This is where it gets significant. God is saying He , the Lord God, is overseeing this situation. “they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness.” – This is the core of the verse. It’s a very strong statement about what happens to these people. "neither son nor daughter" : This means all of them, regardless of their gender or social status. “but deliver their own souls” : This is the key part. God isn't just protecting them from physical harm – he’s safeguarding their very lives and spiritual well-being. "by their righteousness" : This is crucial. It means they will be saved not by merely doing good deeds, but by living a life that aligns with God’s standards of right and wrong. It's about being honest, just, and faithful to Him. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is often interpreted as a warning against complacency or moral laxity. It suggests that true righteousness isn't just about following rules; it’s about consistently living a life of integrity and obedience to God’s will. It emphasizes that God values those who truly live in accordance with His character above all else. Why is this verse important? This passage highlights the importance of: Living a righteous life: It's not enough to just say you're good; you must do good, and do it consistently. God’s judgment: It warns that those who don’t live righteously will face consequences, but God is ultimately in control and will reward those who follow His path. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss the context of the story of Noah, Daniel, and Job? Connect it to other Bible stories or teachings?

Definition: For thus saith the Lord GOD; How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon Jerusalem, the sword, and the famine, and the noisome beast, and the pestilence, to cut off from it man and beast?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 14:21. It's a really powerful and dramatic prediction about God’s judgment on Jerusalem. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Big Picture: This verse is part of a larger prophecy (a vision or prediction) that God has given to Ezekiel, who was a priest in Babylon. It speaks about a time when God will unleash a series of terrible events – a devastating war, widespread suffering, and death – specifically targeting Jerusalem. Let’s unpack each part: “For thus saith the Lord GOD…” : This is just a formal way for God to introduce himself and what he’s going to say. It's a serious declaration. “…How much more when I send my four sore judgments upon Jerusalem, the sword, and the famine, and the noisome beast, and the pestilence, to cut off from it man and beast?” : This is the core of the verse. Let’s break down what “sorrow” means: Four Sore Judgments: God is going to inflict four very serious punishments on Jerusalem. These aren't just minor inconveniences; they are intended to be devastating. Jerusalem: This refers to the city of Jerusalem, which was a major center for Jewish worship and held immense importance in ancient times. Sword: This suggests a large-scale military conflict. Famine: A severe lack of food and water, leading to widespread death. Noisy Beast: This is a symbolic representation of the spread of disease and plague. Pestilence: A deadly sickness or epidemic – like a devastating flu. Cut off from it man and beast: This means that God intends to kill everyone – both people and animals – in Jerusalem. Overall Meaning - A Warning & a Call to Action: The verse is essentially warning about a terrible future for Jerusalem. It’s a message of impending doom, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience or wrongdoing. It’s a call to repentance – God isn't just punishing Jerusalem; He’s demanding that people repent and change their ways before it’s too late. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy about the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which occurred in 586 BCE. However, the precise details are debated among scholars. It’s more about God’s judgment on a city and its people – a reminder that even the most powerful nations can be punished by divine wrath. Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss what this passage might mean for modern-day issues?

Definition: Yet, behold, therein shall be left a remnant that shall be brought forth, [both] sons and daughters: behold, they shall come forth unto you, and ye shall see their way and their doings: and ye shall be comforted concerning the evil that I have brought upon Jerusalem, [even] concerning all that I have brought upon it.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 14:22. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about God’s judgment on Jerusalem and the devastating consequences that will follow. It’s saying that even though He has brought terrible things upon Jerusalem, there will still be a group of people who will come to see the truth and experience God's mercy. Let’s break it down word by word: “Yet, behold…” : This is an introduction – a pause before a significant event. “…thereupon shall be left a remnant…” : This means there will be a group of people who survive or are spared from the worst of the consequences. It’s not about being saved completely, but rather surviving to see what happens next. “[both] sons and daughters: behold, they shall come forth unto you, and ye shall see their way and their doings:” : This is a poetic image – think of it like bringing forth a new generation. “Sons and daughters” refers to people – specifically, young men and women . “They shall come forth unto you” means they will arrive or appear to us. "Ye shall see their way and their doings" – this is the key part. It means we’ll witness what these individuals do as a result of God's actions. “and ye shall be comforted concerning the evil that I have brought upon Jerusalem, [even] concerning all that I have brought upon it.” : This is where the weight of the situation hits home. “Evil” here refers to the oppression, suffering, and destruction that God has inflicted on Jerusalem through his judgment. It’s not just a single event; it's a long period of hardship and devastation. The phrase "[even] concerning all that I have brought upon it" emphasizes that this isn’t just about one incident, but the totality of God’s wrath and punishment. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is a glimpse into God's plan for Israel's future. It speaks to: God's Justice: He is exacting his justice on those who have disobeyed Him. A Cycle of Suffering: The verse suggests that this isn’t a one-time event, but part of an ongoing pattern of judgment and consequence. It points towards a cycle of suffering for Israel. Important Note: It's important to remember that Ezekiel 14:22 is written in a very dramatic and symbolic way. The meaning is intended to be understood in the context of God’s plan for Israel, emphasizing his judgment but also hinting at hope for restoration and redemption. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme? Offer a different perspective on the meaning?

Definition: And they shall comfort you, when ye see their ways and their doings: and ye shall know that I have not done without cause all that I have done in it, saith the Lord GOD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 14:23. It's a really important and somewhat surprising part of the book. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s care for His people – particularly those who are experiencing something difficult or troubling. It’s saying, “I’m watching over you, and I've been involved in this situation, even when it seems awful.” Let’s unpack it word by word: “And they shall comfort you…” - This means that God is offering support and help to those who are suffering. It suggests a sense of relief and hope. “…when ye see their ways and their doings…” – This is the key part. It’s about observing and understanding what people are doing . “Their ways” refers to their actions, habits, and behavior. “Their doings” means everything they do – how they live their lives. “And ye shall know that I have not done without cause all that I have done in it…” - This is the most important part! It’s saying God knows why He's involved and has been working through this situation, even when it seems random or inexplicable. “In it” refers to the specific situation – perhaps a particular event, people, or circumstance. “Saith the Lord GOD.” - This is a formal way of saying "God says..." It’s emphasizing that God's actions are significant and purposeful. Putting it all together: This verse essentially means God is actively involved in helping those who are struggling, even when they don't understand why or how He's helping them. He’s not just passively watching; he’s working behind the scenes to provide support and guidance. It’s a powerful expression of God’s love and concern for his people. Why is this important? It speaks to several themes in the Bible: God's Sovereignty: He controls everything, even difficult situations. Divine Providence: He works behind the scenes to bring about good outcomes. Compassion & Support: He cares deeply for His people and wants to alleviate their suffering. In short, it’s a reassurance that God is watching over you and working for your well-being. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories or themes in the Bible? Give you a quick summary of the overall message of Ezekiel 14:23?