1 Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,

2 Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:

3 If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;

4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.

5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul.

6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.

7 So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me.

8 When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

9 Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

10 Therefore, O thou son of man, speak unto the house of Israel; Thus ye speak, saying, If our transgressions and our sins be upon us, and we pine away in them, how should we then live?

11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?

12 Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth.

13 When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it.

14 Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right;

15 If the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die.

16 None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live.

17 Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal: but as for them, their way is not equal.

18 When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby.

19 But if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall live thereby.

20 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. O ye house of Israel, I will judge you every one after his ways.

21 And it came to pass in the twelfth year of our captivity, in the tenth month, in the fifth day of the month, that one that had escaped out of Jerusalem came unto me, saying, The city is smitten.

22 Now the hand of the Lord was upon me in the evening, afore he that was escaped came; and had opened my mouth, until he came to me in the morning; and my mouth was opened, and I was no more dumb.

23 Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,

24 Son of man, they that inhabit those wastes of the land of Israel speak, saying, Abraham was one, and he inherited the land: but we are many; the land is given us for inheritance.

25 Wherefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Ye eat with the blood, and lift up your eyes toward your idols, and shed blood: and shall ye possess the land?

26 Ye stand upon your sword, ye work abomination, and ye defile every one his neighbour's wife: and shall ye possess the land?

27 Say thou thus unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; As I live, surely they that are in the wastes shall fall by the sword, and him that is in the open field will I give to the beasts to be devoured, and they that be in the forts and in the caves shall die of the pestilence.

28 For I will lay the land most desolate, and the pomp of her strength shall cease; and the mountains of Israel shall be desolate, that none shall pass through.

29 Then shall they know that I am the Lord, when I have laid the land most desolate because of all their abominations which they have committed.

30 Also, thou son of man, the children of thy people still are talking against thee by the walls and in the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his brother, saying, Come, I pray you, and hear what is the word that cometh forth from the Lord.

31 And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.

32 And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not.

33 And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
McArther Bible Commentary
Again the word … came. This chapter is a transition between God's judgments against Jerusalem and the nations (chs. 1-32) and Israel's bright future when she is restored to her land (chs. 34-48). It provided God's instructions for national repentance, and is, thus, the preface to the prophecies of comfort and salvation which follow (chs. 34-39).
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 32:32 Ezekiel 33:2

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
McArther Bible Commentary
speak to … your people. This was given to prepare the exiles' minds to look on the awful calamity in Jerusalem as a just act by God (cf. Eze 14:21-23). He had faithfully warned, but they did not pay heed. Ezekiel had been forbidden to speak to his people from the time of Eze 24:26-27 until Jerusalem was captured. Meanwhile, he had spoken to the foreign nations (chs. 25-32).
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 3:11 Ezekiel 33:1 Ezekiel 33:12 Ezekiel 33:17 Ezekiel 37:18

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 14:8 Nehemiah 4:18 Isaiah 58:1 Ezekiel 3:19 Ezekiel 33:9 Hosea 8:1 Joel 2:1

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
McArther Bible Commentary
his blood … on his own head. Once the watchman did his duty, the responsibility passed to each person. See notes on chapter 18, where each person is accountable for his own response to God's warnings, whether to die in judgment or to live as one who heeded and repented. Ezekiel had been a very faithful and obedient watchman.
Bible Cross References
Acts 18:6 2 Chronicles 25:16 Jeremiah 6:17 Ezekiel 18:13 Ezekiel 33:5 Ezekiel 33:9 Zechariah 1:4

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 11:7 Exodus 9:19 Ezekiel 18:13 Ezekiel 33:4

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Is taken away - Punished by the Lord for his sin.
Bible Cross References
Acts 18:6 Ezekiel 3:18 Ezekiel 3:20 Ezekiel 18:20 Ezekiel 18:24 Ezekiel 33:8 Ezekiel 33:9

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
Bible Cross References
Acts 5:20 Isaiah 62:6 Jeremiah 1:17 Jeremiah 26:2 Ezekiel 2:7 Ezekiel 2:8 Ezekiel 3:17

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
McArther Bible Commentary
his blood I will require. A prophet who sounded the warning of repentance for sin was not to be judged (Eze 33:9), but the one who failed to deliver the message was held accountable (Eze 33:8). This referred to unfaithfulness on the part of the prophet for which he bore responsibility and was chastened by God. See notes on chapter 18; cf. Act 20:26.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 3:11 Ezekiel 3:18 Ezekiel 18:4 Ezekiel 18:13 Ezekiel 33:6 Ezekiel 33:14

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Ezekiel's duty as a watchman.
The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies' approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather perish, listening to smooth things.
Bible Cross References
Acts 13:40 Acts 13:41 Acts 20:26 Ezekiel 3:19 Ezekiel 3:21 Ezekiel 33:3 Ezekiel 33:4 Ezekiel 33:6

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Our sins - The unpardoned guilt, and the unsupportable punishment of our sins, in the wasting of our country, burning our city, abolishing the publick worship of God; we shall pine away, 'tis too late to hope. How - How can it be better with us?
McArther Bible Commentary
how can we then live? The Israelites reasoned that if they were liable to death in judgment that was inevitable, they were in a hopeless condition and had no future. God replied that He had no pleasure in seeing the wicked die for their sin, but desired them to repent and live (cf. 2Pe 3:9). The divine answer to the human question is, "Repent and be saved!" (cf. Eze 18:23, Eze 18:30-32). Here was a blending of divine compassion with the demands of God's holiness. Repentance and forgiveness were offered to all.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 26:16 Leviticus 26:39 Isaiah 49:14 Ezekiel 4:17 Ezekiel 24:23 Ezekiel 37:11

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Acts 3:19 1 Timothy 2:4 2 Peter 3:9 Job 37:23 Isaiah 49:18 Isaiah 55:6 Isaiah 55:7 Jeremiah 3:12 Jeremiah 3:22 Jeremiah 31:20 Jeremiah 44:7 Lamentations 3:33 Ezekiel 5:11 Ezekiel 18:23 Ezekiel 18:30 Ezekiel 18:31 Ezekiel 18:32 Hosea 11:8 Hosea 14:1 Joel 2:12

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Eze 18:19-29. One of the basic principles of God's dealing with His people is presented here: judgment is according to personal faith and conduct. The discussion is not about eternal salvation and eternal death, but physical death as judgment for sin which, for believers, could not result in eternal death. The righteous behavior in verse Eze 33:15 could only characterize a true believer, who was faithful from the heart. There is no distinction made in the matter of who is a true believer in God. There is only a discussion of the issue of behavior as a factor in physical death. For those who were apostate idolaters, physical death would lead to eternal death. For believers who were lovers of the true God, their sin would lead only to physical punishment (cf. 1Co 11:28-31; 1Jn 5:16-17). Righteous and wicked are terms describing behavior, not a person's position before God. It is not the "righteousness of God" imputed as illustrated in the case of Abraham (Gen 15:6; Rom 4:3-5), but rather one's deeds that are in view (Eze 33:15-19).
Bible Cross References
2 Chronicles 7:14 Ezekiel 3:18 Ezekiel 18:21 Ezekiel 18:24 Ezekiel 33:2 Ezekiel 33:18 Ezekiel 33:19 Ezekiel 33:20

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 10:38 2 Peter 2:20 2 Peter 2:21 Ezekiel 18:26 Ezekiel 33:18

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 55:7 Jeremiah 18:7 Jeremiah 18:8 Ezekiel 13:22 Ezekiel 18:27 Ezekiel 33:8 Ezekiel 33:19 Hosea 14:1 Hosea 14:4 Micah 6:8

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Luke 19:8 Exodus 22:1 Leviticus 6:4 Leviticus 6:5 Psalm 119:59 Psalm 143:8 Ezekiel 18:7 Ezekiel 20:11

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 1:18 Isaiah 43:25 Ezekiel 18:22 Ezekiel 33:17

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
McArther Bible Commentary
not fair. They blamed God for their calamities, when actually they were being judged for their sins.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 18:25 Ezekiel 33:2 Ezekiel 33:16 Ezekiel 33:18

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Jeremiah 18:10 Ezekiel 3:20 Ezekiel 18:24 Ezekiel 33:12 Ezekiel 33:13 Ezekiel 33:17 Ezekiel 33:19

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 18:21 Ezekiel 33:12 Ezekiel 33:14 Ezekiel 33:18 Ezekiel 33:20

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is to vindicate the Divine government.
Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves. Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a separation between him and God.
Bible Cross References
Job 34:11 Ezekiel 7:8 Ezekiel 18:25 Ezekiel 33:12 Ezekiel 33:19

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Smitten - Taken and plundered.
McArther Bible Commentary
The city has been captured! A fugitive or fugitives (the Hebrew could be a collective noun) who escaped from Jerusalem reached Ezekiel with the report on January 8, 585 B.C., almost six months after the fall on July 18, 586 (Jer 39:1-2; Jer 52:5-7). Eze 24:1-2 and Eze 33:21 show a thirty-six month span from the outset of the siege on January 15, 588, to the report in Eze 33:21.
Bible Cross References
2 Kings 25:4 2 Kings 25:10 Jeremiah 39:1 Jeremiah 39:2 Jeremiah 39:8 Jeremiah 40:1 Jeremiah 52:4 Jeremiah 52:7 Ezekiel 24:1 Ezekiel 24:2 Ezekiel 31:1 Ezekiel 32:1 Ezekiel 32:17 Ezekiel 40:1

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Opened my mouth - Not that the prophet was utterly dumb before, for he had prophesied against many nations, only he was forbidden to say anything of the Jews, But now the spirit moved him to speak, and continued his motion, 'till the messenger came, and ever after.
McArther Bible Commentary
opened my mouth. God exercised control over the mouth of Ezekiel (see note on Eze 3:26-27).
Bible Cross References
Luke 1:64 2 Corinthians 6:11 Ezekiel 1:3 Ezekiel 3:26 Ezekiel 3:27 Ezekiel 8:1 Ezekiel 24:27 Ezekiel 29:21 Ezekiel 33:23 Ezekiel 37:1

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
McArther Bible Commentary
There is no date attached to the prophecies from Eze. 33:23-39:29, but the first message after the fall of Jerusalem was a rebuke of Israel's carnal confidence. This prophecy was against the remnant of Judah who remained in the land of promise after the fall of Jerusalem. Ezekiel warns the survivors that more judgment will come on them if they do not obey God. By some strange reasoning, they thought that if God had given the land to Abraham when he was alone, it would be more securely theirs because they were many in number-a claim based on quantity rather than quality (Eze 33:24). But judgment will come, if they turn and reject God again (Eze 33:25-29).
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 33:22 Ezekiel 33:24

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
They - Who were left behind, now come out of their holes, or returned from neighbouring countries, or permitted by the conqueror to stay and plant vineyards. Wastes - Places once fruitful and abounding with people, but now, made a desolate wilderness. He inherited - Our father had a right to all this land, when but one; we his children though diminished, are many, and the divine goodness will surely continue to us both right and possession. Is given - It was given by promise to us, the seed, as well as to our progenitor; nay more, 'tis given us in possession, whereas Abraham had not one foot of it.
Bible Cross References
Luke 3:8 Acts 7:5 Romans 4:12 Isaiah 51:2 Jeremiah 39:10 Jeremiah 40:7 Jeremiah 41:7 Ezekiel 11:15 Ezekiel 33:23 Ezekiel 33:27

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 17:10 Leviticus 17:12 Deuteronomy 12:16 Deuteronomy 12:23 Deuteronomy 15:23 Jeremiah 7:9 Jeremiah 7:10 Jeremiah 7:21 Ezekiel 18:6

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye stand - You trust to your sword; you do all with violence. Abominations - Idolatry.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:29 Jeremiah 41:7 Ezekiel 22:11 Micah 2:1 Micah 2:2 Zephaniah 3:3

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 13:6 Isaiah 2:19 Jeremiah 15:2 Jeremiah 15:3 Jeremiah 42:22 Ezekiel 5:12 Ezekiel 14:21 Ezekiel 33:24 Ezekiel 39:4 Zephaniah 1:2

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 41:15 Jeremiah 9:10 Jeremiah 18:16 Jeremiah 52:27 Ezekiel 5:14 Ezekiel 6:14 Ezekiel 7:24 Ezekiel 24:21 Ezekiel 30:6 Ezekiel 33:29 Micah 7:13 Zephaniah 1:2

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The desolation of Judea.
Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.
Bible Cross References
Jeremiah 18:16 Ezekiel 33:28 Ezekiel 33:30 Ezekiel 33:33

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Judgments on the mockers of the prophets.
Unworthy and corrupt motives often lead men to the places where the word of God is faithfully preached. Many come to find somewhat to oppose: far more come of curiosity or mere habit. Men may have their hearts changed. But whether men hear or forbear, they will know by the event that a servant of God has been among them. All who will not know the worth of mercies by the improvement of them, will justly be made to know their worth by the want of them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The children - Captives in Babylon.
McArther Bible Commentary
Here was a message to exiles, who had no intention of obeying the prophet's messages. They liked to listen, but not apply the prophet's words. They finally knew by bitter experience that he had spoken the truth of God. The people appreciated the eloquence of Ezekiel, but not the realty of his message. IV.Prophecies of Israel's Restoration (Eze. 34:1-48:35)
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 29:13 Isaiah 58:2 Ezekiel 14:3 Ezekiel 20:3 Ezekiel 20:31 Ezekiel 33:29

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Judgments on the mockers of the prophets.
Unworthy and corrupt motives often lead men to the places where the word of God is faithfully preached. Many come to find somewhat to oppose: far more come of curiosity or mere habit. Men may have their hearts changed. But whether men hear or forbear, they will know by the event that a servant of God has been among them. All who will not know the worth of mercies by the improvement of them, will justly be made to know their worth by the want of them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
They come - As if they were really the people of God. They sit - So we find the elders of Judah, (Ezekiel 8:1) , so the disciples of the rabbis sat at their feet.
Bible Cross References
Luke 12:15 1 John 3:18 Psalm 78:36 Psalm 78:37 Psalm 119:36 Isaiah 29:13 Jeremiah 12:2 Ezekiel 14:1 Ezekiel 22:13 Ezekiel 22:27

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Judgments on the mockers of the prophets.
Unworthy and corrupt motives often lead men to the places where the word of God is faithfully preached. Many come to find somewhat to oppose: far more come of curiosity or mere habit. Men may have their hearts changed. But whether men hear or forbear, they will know by the event that a servant of God has been among them. All who will not know the worth of mercies by the improvement of them, will justly be made to know their worth by the want of them.
Bible Cross References
Mark 6:20 Ezekiel 14:1

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Judgments on the mockers of the prophets.
Unworthy and corrupt motives often lead men to the places where the word of God is faithfully preached. Many come to find somewhat to oppose: far more come of curiosity or mere habit. Men may have their hearts changed. But whether men hear or forbear, they will know by the event that a servant of God has been among them. All who will not know the worth of mercies by the improvement of them, will justly be made to know their worth by the want of them.
Bible Cross References
Jeremiah 28:9 Ezekiel 2:5 Ezekiel 33:29 Ezekiel 34:1