Ezekiel 21:23 - Interpretation and Meaning

Ezekiel 21:23 reads: "And it shall be unto them as a false divination in their sight, to them that have sworn oaths: but he will call to remembrance the iniquity, that they may be taken."

Summary of Ezekiel 21:23

This verse speaks about the fate of the Israelites who sought false assurances through divination, revealing the futility of their actions in the face of divine judgment. God reminds them that their oaths will not protect them from the consequences of their iniquities.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

• Henry notes that the people of Israel were relying on deceptive practices like divination to seek guidance and security.
• He emphasizes that such false assurances will be viewed as nonsensical by the people, as they fail to bear any foreshadowing of their true fate.
• Furthermore, Henry points out that the remembrance of iniquity signifies accountability, showing that God will not overlook their sins.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

• Barnes interprets the verse as a warning against relying on human wisdom or supernatural manipulations instead of trusting in God.
• He highlights that the oaths sworn by these individuals won't shield them from the repercussions of their wrongdoings.
• Barnes also connects this to the broader context, illustrating God's unwavering judgment contrasted with the people's misguided reliance on divination.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

• Clarke analyzes the term "false divination," suggesting it emphasizes the absurdity of expecting favorable outcomes from one's own sinful practices.
• He underscores the importance of recognizing one's sinfulness and the inevitability of God's judgment, despite any claims of divine protection.
• Clarke also elaborates on the concept of accountability, noting that God's remembrance of iniquity serves as a reminder that people cannot evade divine retribution.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 21:23 can be connected to several other Bible verses, which provide additional insights into its meaning:

• Jeremiah 14:14 - "Then the Lord said to me, 'The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries, and the delusions of their own minds.'
• Isaiah 47:13 - "You are wearied with all your consultations; let now the astrologers, those who prophesy by the stars, those who predict by the new moons, stand up and save you from what will come upon you."
• Hosea 4:12 - "My people consult a wooden idol, and a diviner's rod speaks to them. A spirit of prostitution leads them astray; they are unfaithful to their God."
• Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death."
• James 4:17 - "If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them."
• 2 Corinthians 5:10 - "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due for us, for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad."
• Galatians 6:7 - "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows."

Thematic Connections

This passage encompasses themes of deception, accountability, and divine judgment, creating a strong link to several other scripture passages that deal with similar topics.

• The Deception of False Prophecies: Ezekiel 21:23 serves as a warning about the perils of relying on false prophets and delusions.
• Divine Accountability: The emphasis on God remembering iniquities underscores the importance of accountability before God, usitating the moral consequences of actions.
• God’s Sovereignty: The passage highlights that despite human actions, God's sovereignty and ultimate judgment will prevail.

Study Tools for Cross-Referencing

To delve deeper into the connections and themes present in Ezekiel 21:23, the following study tools may be helpful:

• Bible Concordance: A comprehensive index of words that allows you to find specific verses and related topics.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Useful for linking verses that provide comparative insights.
• Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing: Various resources for studying how different scriptures relate to each other.
• Bible Reference Resources: Booklets and online tools to aid in understanding scriptural relationships and connections.
• Cross-reference Bible Study Methods: Techniques for identifying interconnections that reveal the broader narrative of the Bible.
• Comparative Bible Verse Analysis: An approach that allows for detailed examination of similar themes across verses.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 21:23 serves as a poignant reminder of the futility of relying on false assurances in the face of divine judgment. By cross-referencing with other scriptures, one can gain a deeper understanding of the themes of accountability, deception, and the sovereignty of God. Employing tools for Bible cross-referencing enhances the ability to uncover connections between different parts of the scripture, enriching one's study and comprehension of biblical truth.