Translations
Original
Notes
God also controlled Ezekiel’s speech. It was as if his tongue were bound to the roof of his mouth. He could speak only when God allowed him to speak words of judgment.
Ezekiel was not physically unable to talk. However, God limited what he could say. He could announce only the message of disaster that God gave him. He was not allowed to speak anything else.
This made Ezekiel’s role different from that of most prophets. Many prophets could pray for the people and speak to God on their behalf. Ezekiel could not do this because the time for dialogue between God and his people had ended. No further appeal could stop the coming judgment.
His speech would remain restricted until news arrived that Jerusalem had fallen (Ezekiel 24:27). After God’s judgment was complete, Ezekiel’s tongue would be freed. Then he would again be able to speak for the people.
Old Testament prophetic books often begin with a “call narrative.” A call narrative describes how God chose and sent a prophet to serve in this role (for example, Jeremiah 1:4–19).
This account showed that the prophet’s message was legitimate. It made clear that the prophet spoke as the Lord’s ambassador (a representative sent with authority). The call narrative also introduced important themes that the book would explain more fully later.
In Ezekiel, the call narrative focuses on the Lord’s coming judgment on his people.
Events
- Prophecies of Ezekielc. 593 BC
Glossary
Topics
Ezekiel: Teaches by Pantomime: Feigns Dumbness Impenitence: General Scriptures Concerning Symbols and Similitudes: Being Mute The Inspiration of the Holy Spirit: Design of To Direct Ministers