Ezekiel 20:1

And it came to pass in the seventh year, in the fifth month, the tenth day of the month, that certain of the elders of Israel came to enquire of the Lord, and sat before me.

Ezekiel 20:1 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ezekiel is set during the Babylonian exile, when the people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon. Ezekiel, a prophet and priest, received his visions and messages from God while living among the exiles. The events of Ezekiel 20 occur in the seventh year of the exile, specifically on the fifth month and tenth day, a date that places this encounter around 591 BC, during the seventh year of King Jehoiachin’s captivity.

Meaning

The precise dating of this event is significant because it emphasizes the historical accuracy and specificity of the recorded events. It shows that Ezekiel’s prophecies were not mere allegories but had real-world applications and consequences. The mention that certain elders of Israel came to inquire of the Lord and sat before Ezekiel indicates a formal audience, awaiting a divine message. These elders were likely leaders or representatives of the exiled community, seeking guidance and wanting to know God’s will for their situation. They approached Ezekiel as a prophet who could provide insight and communicate with God.

Biblical connections

Ezekiel was called by God to be a prophet to the exiled Israelites, tasked with delivering messages of judgment, warning, and hope. The fact that the elders sought Ezekiel’s counsel demonstrates their recognition of him as a spiritual authority and a channel through which they could access God’s guidance. However, the chapter that follows reveals that their inquiry was not marked by humble repentance. God’s response includes a review of Israel’s rebellious history and persistent idolatry, showing that approaching God with an unrepentant heart does not yield a favorable answer. This serves as a warning that God desires genuine repentance, not merely ritual inquiry.

Application

The elders’ act of seeking God’s counsel before making decisions is commendable, reflecting their understanding of the importance of divine wisdom rather than relying solely on their own understanding. In our own lives, we can learn from their example. When facing important decisions or seeking direction, it is crucial to approach God in prayer, seek His counsel through studying His Word, and seek wise counsel from spiritual leaders or mature believers. By doing so, we position ourselves to receive guidance and make choices that align with God’s will. Yet we must also examine our hearts, ensuring that we come to God with genuine repentance and a desire to obey, not merely to inquire.

Reflection

As you continue reading the book of Ezekiel, consider the broader context and read further to understand the specific message and prophecies that Ezekiel delivered to the people of Israel during the Babylonian exile. The precise date and the elders’ inquiry remind us that God is sovereign over history and responds to His people even in their rebellion, calling them back to Himself.