Chapter Summary

Vision of the elders of Israel. Jerusalem on no account to be spared.

Discussion Questions for Ezekiel, Chapter 14

1. In chapter 14 a third group of leaders are condemned? Who are these leaders and what were their role in Israel? Who might these leaders correspond to in our time? What is the proper way to approach misconduct with leaders?
2. What was the sin of the elders? What does that look like in our lives?
3. Why does the Lord decide to answer the elders who have idols in their hearts? How does this fit with Ezekiel's theme that Israel would know that the Lord was God?
4. In 14:8, God elaborates on his answer. How is this different from the answer you might expect from God? Why does God respond in this way?
5. How can it be good that God "deceived (ESV)" the prophet in 14:9? Do any other passages shed light on this response? How might Romans 1:18-32 help us understand this passage?
6. What does the statement about Noah, Daniel, and Job say about the situation in Israel? How would you describe the relationship between God, his leaders, and the church? What are some policies and practices that could help ensure the health and integrity of leaders?
7. God says that these three men could not even deliver their own family. What do you think is the most important task for parents in relation to the discipleship of their kids? What could be the danger of thinking that you can save your kids by your own actions?
8. The four "disastrous acts of judgment (ESV)" remind the reader of the promise of covenant curses in the Law. Why do you think God keeps reminding the people of these curses? Do you think the reminder would be heeded? Why do you think this?
9. How do we explain the existence of survivors in light of the great sin of the people? How might we relate this to our own experience of sin?
10. The survivors have a consoling role in 14:21-23. How can we have a similar role of consoling others? How do our painful past experiences provide a benefit to others?

Key Words/Phrase

Heart idols, v. 3. (Sore judgments, v. 21.)

Characters

God, Ezekiel, Noah, Job, Daniel.

Strong Verse(s)

3