Ezekiel 22:28

“Ezekiel 22:28 (KJV): And her prophets have daubed them with untempered mortar, seeing vanity, and divining lies unto them, saying, Thus saith the Lord GOD, when the LORD hath not spoken.”

Context and Background:Ezekiel was a prophet called by God to deliver messages to the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. This verse comes from a chapter where God is pronouncing judgment upon Jerusalem for its many sins, including social injustice, idolatry, and moral corruption. In this particular verse, God condemns the false prophets who have misled the people with lies and deceit.

Understanding the verse:

• “Her prophets have daubed them with untempered mortar”:In biblical times, untempered mortar referred to a weak and unreliable material used for construction. In this context, it symbolizes the false teachings and messages propagated by the prophets. Instead of speaking the truth and strengthening the people’s faith, these prophets deceived them with weak and false messages.
• “Seeing vanity, and divining lies unto them”:The false prophets were not only aware of the emptiness and futility of their own messages but also deliberately spoke lies and falsely claimed to be speaking on behalf of God. They deceived the people, leading them astray and fostering a false sense of security.
• “Saying, Thus saith the Lord GOD when the LORD hath not spoken”:The false prophets claimed to speak on behalf of God, but their words did not align with God’s true message. They spoke presumptuously, attributing their own words and ideas to God, while the Lord had not actually spoken to them. This highlights the seriousness of their deception and the danger it posed to the people.
• Spiritual lessons and application:
• Beware of false teachings:The presence of false prophets in Ezekiel’s time serves as a reminder for us today to be discerning regarding the teachings we encounter. It is essential to compare any teachings or prophecies with the truth of God’s Word, ensuring they align with His character and revealed truths.
• Seek truth and discernment:The false prophets were driven by vanity and personal gain. As believers, we should pursue truth and seek discernment through prayer, studying the Scriptures, and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This will help us discern between genuine messages from God and deceptive falsehoods.
• Trust in God’s true Word:The false prophets’ lies led the people astray, contributing to the spiritual downfall of Jerusalem. Today, we must anchor ourselves in the truth of God’s Word, relying on its unchanging principles and teachings. The Bible is our ultimate source of guidance and wisdom, offering a solid foundation for our faith.
• Reject presumptuous claims:The false prophets arrogantly claimed to speak on behalf of God without genuinely hearing from Him. Let us be cautious not to presume that we know God’s will or speak in His name without seeking His guidance and aligning ourselves with His revealed Word. Humility and reverence are crucial in handling God’s message.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 22:28 exposes the deceitful actions of false prophets who misled the people of Jerusalem with lies and empty promises. This verse serves as a warning for us today to discern truth from falsehood, seek God’s Word, and rely on His guidance to avoid being led astray by deceptive teachings.