Ezekiel 20:31

For when yee offer your gifts, when yee make your sonnes to passe through the fire, ye pollute your selues with all your idoles euen vnto this day: and shall I be inquired of by you, O house of Israel? As I liue, saith the Lord God, I will not be inquired of by you. Ezekiel 20:31 (KJV)

This verse is part of a larger passage in Ezekiel where the prophet condemns the idolatrous practices of the people of Israel. In this particular verse, God addresses the Israelites and rebukes them for their sinful actions.

Historical Context: During the time of Ezekiel, the Israelites had been taken into exile in Babylon because of their persistent disobedience and idolatry. The people of Israel had a long history of turning away from God and worshiping false gods, even sacrificing their own children to these idols, which was a detestable practice.

The Sin of Child Sacrifice: The phrase “when they made their sons pass through the fire” refers to the practice of offering children as sacrifices to pagan gods, particularly the Canaanite god Molech. This was a common practice among the neighboring nations, but it was strictly forbidden by God in the Law of Moses (Leviticus 18:21; Deuteronomy 12:31).

Idolatry and Defilement: By participating in these idolatrous practices, the Israelites not only broke God’s commandments but also polluted themselves with their idols. Idolatry is described in Scripture as spiritual adultery, where the people of Israel turned away from their covenant relationship with God and worshipped false gods instead.

God’s Disapproval: The passage underscores God’s disapproval of the Israelites’ continued idolatry and child sacrifice. Their actions provoked divine judgment and highlighted the seriousness of violating the covenant.

God’s Holiness and Judgment: The verse emphasizes God’s holiness and His commitment to justice. By condemning their practices, God demonstrates His disapproval of their actions and makes it clear that their idolatry and sin have consequences.

Overall, Ezekiel 20:31 serves as a stern warning against idolatry and the serious consequences that come from defiling oneself with false gods. It underscores the importance of faithfulness to God’s commandments and the need to turn away from sinful practices.