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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from the Book of Ezekiel! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: “Then came the word of the LORD unto me, saying…” This is a very short and powerful opening. It means that God is speaking to you directly. It’s like a message from a divine source. Here’s what it’s essentially saying: God is communicating with you: This isn't just any old conversation; it’s a direct, personal message from God. The word is significant: The word “Lord” in this context refers to God – the ultimate creator and ruler of everything. It’s about a specific situation: God is telling you something important, and he's revealing it to you personally. What does this verse suggest? This is often seen as a foundational moment in Ezekiel’s prophetic journey. It sets the stage for the rest of the book – that God is going to address someone specifically with a message about a problem or challenge that needs to be addressed. It suggests a shift from a more general, perhaps distant relationship with God to a personal and focused one. In short, it’s like the beginning of a very important conversation between God and a person. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about Ezekiel's life and times?

Definition: And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I [am] the LORD your God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:20. It’s a really interesting and somewhat mysterious part of scripture! Here's what it means in plain language: “And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I [am] the LORD your God.” Let's unpack this step-by-step: "And hallow my sabbaths..." - This is a bit tricky. "Sabbath" in Jewish tradition means a day of rest, a time for spiritual renewal and connection with God. Ezekiel was writing this verse while he was experiencing a significant period of intense vision and divine guidance. So, he's talking about his own personal Sabbath – a day of rest and reflection. "...and they shall be a sign between me and you..." - This is the key part. He’s saying that this act of “hallowing” his sabbath will be a visible demonstration of God’s presence and power. It's like a public announcement! "...that ye may know that I [am] the LORD your God." – This is the core message: “I am the LORD.” This isn’t just saying “I am God”; it’s specifically declaring that he is the Lord. It's a declaration of divine authority and ownership over everything. So, putting it all together: Ezekiel 20:20 is essentially telling us that God is setting aside time for rest and reflection – his own Sabbath – to show us that he is in control and that he is the ultimate authority. It’s a way of saying, "I am the one who deserves respect and worship." What's the bigger picture? This verse has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. It’s often seen as: A sign of divine sovereignty: It emphasizes that God is in charge and doesn’t rely on humans to be aware of his will. A call for humility: It reminds us that we are not the center of everything, but rather part of a larger, divine plan. Important Note: This verse is complex and has been debated by theologians for centuries. It's a beautiful example of how ancient texts can carry layers of meaning beyond their literal words. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail with examples? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Explore different interpretations of this verse?

Definition: Notwithstanding the children rebelled against me: they walked not in my statutes, neither kept my judgments to do them, which [if] a man do, he shall even live in them; they polluted my sabbaths: then I said, I would pour out my fury upon them, to accomplish my anger against them in the wilderness.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Ezekiel 20:21. It’s a really intense and dramatic verse that speaks about a rebellion against God. Here’s a simplified explanation: What’s Happening? Ezekiel 20:21 is describing a severe rebellion by the people of Israel – specifically, those who were with Moses – after he led them out of Egypt. It’s essentially saying they stopped following God's rules and laws. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 20:21” : This is a specific passage from the Book of Ezekiel, written during a very difficult time for the Jewish people under the rule of King Jehoiakim. It’s a moment of intense judgment and punishment. “Notwithstanding the children rebelled against me…” : This means that before this verse, the Israelites had been following God's laws and commandments. But, they started to disobey. The word “rebelled” suggests a strong act of defiance. “…they walked not in my statutes, neither kept my judgments to do them…” : This is the core of the problem. They stopped following God’s rules. “Statutes” refers to the laws and commandments given by God. "Judgments" means God's punishments or consequences for wrongdoing. Basically, they weren't adhering to what God expected of them. “…which a man do, he shall even live in them; they polluted my sabbaths…” : This is where it gets really powerful. It’s saying that if a person follows God's laws and rules, they are granted life . But this rebellion caused the laws to be ruined. “Polluted my sabbaths” means they broke or ignored God’s holy times – like Sabbath days, which were important for rest and worship. “Then I said, I would pour out my fury upon them, to accomplish my anger against them in the wilderness.” : This is the climax of the verse. God, feeling deeply hurt by their defiance, declared that He would unleash a terrible punishment on them. He would make it very difficult for them to survive – he would send them into the wilderness with no food or water and let them struggle to find their way back. It's a message of utter destruction and hardship. What’s the Big Message? This verse is about the importance of obeying God’s laws. It highlights that when we don't follow God's instructions, we are subject to His judgment. It’s a warning against disobedience and a reminder that God holds us accountable for our actions. In short, it describes a time where the people of Israel broke off from their relationship with God and suffered serious consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect this passage to a specific story or event in biblical history? Discuss what this verse might be interpreted as about in terms of human behavior?

Definition: Nevertheless I withdrew mine hand, and wrought for my name’s sake, that it should not be polluted in the sight of the heathen, in whose sight I brought them forth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:22. It's a really interesting one with a lot of layers! Here’s what it basically means, explained simply: The Core Idea: God is worried about how the people of Israel (and later, all of humanity) will perceive Him. He’s actively trying to protect His name – His character and identity – from being tarnished or misrepresented. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Nevertheless I withdrew mine hand…” : This is a bit dramatic! It means God took a step back, stopped his actions, or made a decision to prevent something bad from happening. It’s not that he stopped doing something entirely, but he intentionally altered his plan. “…and wrought for my name’s sake…” : This is the key part! “Wrought” means to create or make something. God was actively working to improve His name – to make it look good and be respected. “that it should not be polluted in the sight of the heathen…” : This is where it gets really important. "Heathen" means people who are unfamiliar with the traditions and beliefs of Judaism, which at that time was a very significant part of the Jewish community. He’s trying to protect His reputation from being misunderstood or criticized by those outside of his faith. “…in whose sight I brought them forth.” : This is a bit tricky. "Brought them forth" means he showed them, revealed them, or introduced them to something. The “in whose sight” part emphasizes that he was the one who made this happen – and that's why he’s so concerned about how they will view Him. So, putting it all together: God is consciously working to ensure His name is always presented positively, even when people don't understand him or his actions. It's a proactive effort to safeguard His reputation and honor. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea that God is involved in everything – even in how we perceive Him. He’s not just passively allowing things to happen; he’s actively trying to influence the world around him to reflect a good image of Himself. --- Important Note: This is a complex passage, and there's a lot of interpretation about its meaning. It's often interpreted as a reminder that God is actively involved in the world and that we should strive to live our lives with integrity and honor Him. Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Discuss its connection to other biblical stories? Provide a simpler, more straightforward explanation?

Definition: I lifted up mine hand unto them also in the wilderness, that I would scatter them among the heathen, and disperse them through the countries;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:23. It’s a pretty powerful and somewhat dramatic statement about God’s plan. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is deliberately scattering people – specifically, the Israelites – across the whole world. He’s setting them up for a long, difficult journey. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I lifted up mine hand unto them” : This is a strong image of God's power and intention. He’s deliberately choosing to take action. Think of it like He’s using his hand – forceful and purposeful. “also in the wilderness” : The “wilderness” isn’t just any place; it represents a difficult, challenging situation – a time of hardship and isolation. It's a place where people are vulnerable. “that I would scatter them among the heathen” : This is the key part. "Heathen" means people who aren't Jewish – meaning people from other cultures and nations. God is deliberately dispersing these Israelites across the world, far away from their homeland. “and disperse them through the countries” : He’s not just scattering them randomly. He’s saying they will be spread out all over the globe – across continents and different regions. What's the purpose of this? This verse is often interpreted as a preview of God's ultimate plan for Israel, which includes their eventual dispersion and becoming part of the wider world. It speaks to: A Test: God is testing them with hardship to see if they’re ready to be free from their old ways and become a new people. A Preparation for a Greater Purpose: The scattering is meant to prepare them for a time when God will bring about a new era of peace, justice, and a unified kingdom. Important Note: This verse is often viewed as symbolic and doesn't necessarily mean literal dispersal in the way we might imagine. It’s a powerful image of God's sovereignty and the strategic placement of His people across the globe. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Ezekiel 20:23? Discuss the different interpretations of this verse? Provide a historical context for its meaning?

Definition: Because they had not executed my judgments, but had despised my statutes, and had polluted my sabbaths, and their eyes were after their fathers’ idols.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:24. It's a really important passage about sin and God’s justice. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying that people were choosing to ignore or disrespect God's laws and commands, and they were actively trying to push aside his plans for them. Let’s unpack each part: “Because they had not executed my judgments…” – This means they didn’t follow through with the punishments God set for wrongdoings. Think of it like ignoring a warning sign on the road - you don't stop and obey! God gave specific rules, and people weren’t respecting them. “…but had despised my statutes…” – This is a bit more complicated. "Statutes" in this context refers to God’s laws, commandments, or guidelines. People were deliberately rejecting or ignoring these laws, treating them as unimportant or even harmful. It's like choosing to ignore a moral code. “…and had polluted my sabbaths…” – “Sabbaths” are days of rest and worship. This means they were taking time off from their lives and activities to focus on God, but they weren’t honoring that time with proper reverence or practice. It's like neglecting a sacred ritual. “And their eyes were after their fathers’ idols.” – This is the most striking part. “Idols” in this context refers to false gods or idols - things we create ourselves, often based on our own desires and whims instead of God. People were so focused on their own wants and ideas that they weren’t listening to God's guidance. They were chasing after something outside of God's plan. So, putting it all together: Ezekiel 20:24 describes a situation where people were rejecting God's laws and honoring his commands, prioritizing their own desires over what’s right, and ignoring the guidance he provides. It highlights the importance of obedience and respecting God’s will. The bigger picture – What does this mean for us? This verse is often seen as a warning to us about: Our tendency to prioritize our own wants over God's. The dangers of ignoring or disrespecting His laws. The importance of listening to and following God’s guidance in all areas of life. It’s a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment come from aligning ourselves with God’s plan, not from pursuing our own desires without regard for his will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse applies to modern life?

Definition: Wherefore I gave them also statutes [that were] not good, and judgments whereby they should not live;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very important verse from Ezekiel 20:25. It’s a really significant passage about God’s judgment and the consequences of sin. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse says that God is deliberately setting up rules and punishments for people, but those rules are not designed to help them live happily or prosperiously. It’s like a really harsh set of guidelines that ultimately lead to suffering and death. Let's unpack it word by word: “Wherefore I gave them also statutes [that were] not good…” - “Wherefore” means "because" or "for the reason." So, this part is saying God specifically gave people laws and rules – like a set of commandments – that weren’t meant to be beneficial. “…and judgments whereby they should not live.” - “Judgments” means punishments or verdicts. “Whereby they should not live” is a bit metaphorical, but it means the laws were designed to prevent them from living a good and fulfilling life. What does this mean in practical terms? This verse speaks about the consequences of disobedience and wickedness. It’s a warning that when people turn away from God's will and choose to live in sin, God will impose serious penalties. It suggests that sin leads to a separation from God, and that separation results in suffering – both physical and spiritual. The Context - Ezekiel 20: This verse comes from a vision given to Ezekiel, a prophet who was experiencing a very difficult time. Ezekiel was being told by God that the people of Israel were going to be severely punished for their sins. This verse is a key part of the story explaining why this punishment would occur. It's essentially saying that because they disobeyed God’s commands, He had to create a system of rules and consequences to show how serious their wrongdoing was. In short: God isn't just punishing people; he is deliberately setting up laws that are designed to prevent them from living in the way He wants them to. It’s a powerful message about the importance of obeying God's will and avoiding sin. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss what it might mean in a specific context (like the story of Ezekiel)?

Definition: And I polluted them in their own gifts, in that they caused to pass through [the fire] all that openeth the womb, that I might make them desolate, to the end that they might know that I [am] the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:26. It's a really important and complex passage in the Bible, and it’s often misunderstood. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s judgment on Israel after they disobeyed him. It’s about a specific act of wickedness that angered God and resulted in devastating consequences for them. Let's unpack the parts: “And I polluted them…” : This means God felt deeply hurt and angry because of something they did wrong. He wasn’t just annoyed; he felt like his presence was being violated. “…in their own gifts…” : "Own gifts" refers to their abilities, talents, skills, or even their way of life. It's not about a specific individual but the overall behavior and way they were living. Think of it as their whole identity – what they were built to do. “…in that they caused to pass through [the fire] all that openeth the womb…” : This is the core of the verse. “Openeth the womb” means to allow a baby to be born. The phrase “all that openeth the womb” refers to something specific – it’s a symbolic representation of a woman's womb, and it signifies a way of life that was causing problems. It’s like a pregnancy that was going wrong or being forced into an unwanted situation. The "passing through [the fire]" suggests a painful, destructive process. “That I might make them desolate…” : God is deliberately causing suffering and hardship for these people. He's setting things in motion to show how serious their wrongdoing is. “…to the end that they might know that I [am] the LORD.” : This is a crucial part – it’s about God revealing His identity. “The LORD” is a direct reference to God, the creator and ruler of the universe. By making them desolate, God is demonstrating that He is in control and that He will ultimately bring about justice. It's a way for them to understand the true nature of their situation – they are under His authority and facing consequences. What’s it really saying? The verse isn’t just about a single act of disobedience. It’s a warning about the dangers of pride, rebellion against God, and a refusal to obey His laws. It's a powerful statement about God's justice, punishment, and ultimately, His ultimate triumph over evil. Important Context: This verse is part of a larger story in the Old Testament. It’s often interpreted as a warning to Israel to repent (turn back to God) before it was too late. It highlights God’s sovereignty – that He has the power to punish and ultimately judge those who reject Him. In short, Ezekiel 20:26 is a dramatic illustration of God's righteous anger at a nation that disobeyed His commands and is demonstrating His ultimate judgment on them. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Compare it to another Bible passage about God’s justice?

Definition: Therefore, son of man, speak unto the house of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Yet in this your fathers have blasphemed me, in that they have committed a trespass against me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:27. It's a really important and somewhat shocking passage of scripture. Here’s an explanation designed to be clear and understandable: What it says: “Therefore, son of man, speak unto the house of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Yet in this your fathers have blasphemed me, in that they have committed a trespass against me.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Therefore, son of man…” – This refers to Jesus Christ, the Messiah. It's a way of saying "I am speaking to you, Jesus." “…speak unto the house of Israel…” – This means Jesus is addressing the Jewish people – specifically the Israelites who followed Moses and were under God’s law. “and say unto them…” - Jesus is telling them something important. “Thus saith the Lord GOD…” – This is a very formal and powerful way for Jesus to speak. It's like saying “This is what I have to say.” “…Yet in this your fathers have blasphemed me…” – This is the core of the verse. Jesus is pointing out that the Israelites, throughout their history, had repeatedly offended God. They’ve broken His laws and disobeyed Him. Think of it like a pattern of disrespect. “in that they have committed a trespass against me.” - This means they've done something seriously wrong – a major breach of trust or obedience to God's will. It wasn’t just a small mistake; it was a significant act that damaged the relationship between God and them. What does this mean in simpler terms? Jesus is saying: “The Israelites have been disrespectful to me throughout history, repeatedly defying my commands and breaking my laws. They've shown a lack of respect for who I am – God’s Son.” Why is this important? This verse highlights several key points: God's Justice: It shows that God is just and will hold people accountable for their actions, even those who appear to be righteous. The Importance of Obedience: It emphasizes the need for obedience to God’s laws – a fundamental part of a relationship with Him. The Cost of Disobedience: Jesus's words are a warning that disobedience will have consequences. In essence, Ezekiel 20:27 is a powerful reminder that humans are prone to sin and that maintaining a good relationship with God requires obedience and respect. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event from the Bible? Discuss its significance in light of other biblical passages?

Definition: [For] when I had brought them into the land, [for] the which I lifted up mine hand to give it to them, then they saw every high hill, and all the thick trees, and they offered there their sacrifices, and there they presented the provocation of their offering: there also they made their sweet savour, and poured out there their drink offerings.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:28. It’s a really interesting passage about God’s plans for Israel and how they react to his presence. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: God is setting up a new city in the land of Israel, and he’s giving it to the Israelites. He’s starting with a massive, sweeping gesture – lifting up his hand to give them the land. As he does this, the Israelites begin to build and cultivate the land. They start making sacrifices – offerings to God – and they also start producing food and drink. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “When I had brought them into the land…” : This tells us that God is already in the land, actively shaping it. He’s not just talking about the future; he’s already started the process. “…for [the which I lifted up my hand to give it to them]” : This is a key phrase. God is saying, “I'm actively choosing to give this land to the Israelites.” He’s making a deliberate choice. “Then they saw every high hill, and all the thick trees…” : The Israelites are starting to build and expand, and they’re noticing the landscape around them – the hills, the forests, and everything else. It's like they're overwhelmed by the beauty and size of the land. “and offered there their sacrifices, and there they presented the provocation of their offering…” : They’re starting to build temples and structures, and they’re performing rituals – sacrifices – as a way to show their devotion and acknowledge God’s presence. "Provocation" is a bit tricky - it means something that's not quite right or perfect, like an offering that isn’t fully dedicated. “there also they made their sweet savour, and poured out there their drink offerings.” : They are producing food and drink – a vital part of life in the new land. "Sweet savour" is a metaphorical phrase suggesting something delicious and abundant. Overall Meaning: The verse describes a period where God is actively establishing his presence in the land, beginning with a grand gesture of giving it to the Israelites. As they begin to build and cultivate the land, their actions – building temples, offering sacrifices, and producing food – are creating a situation where the land becomes prosperous and abundant. Important Context: It’s important to note that this is part of a larger story about God's plan for Israel. The verse sets the stage for further events and challenges as the Israelites grow in their relationship with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories or scriptures in the Bible? Give a different perspective on the meaning of the verse?