Chapter Summary

Jehovah vindicated in the chastising of Israel. Israel's future judgment. Parable of the forest of the south field.

Discussion Questions for Ezekiel, Chapter 20

1. What role does the prior history of Israel have in chapter 20? What can be the benefit of this kind of remembrance in the church?
2. What are the detestable things Israel did in the wilderness? By not forsaking the idols of Egypt, who were they essentially forsaking? How does the statement "I am the Lord (ESV)" fit into this discussion on detestable things and idolatry?
3. Why did God not destroy the rebellious Israelites in the wilderness? What does it mean when God says that he acted "for the sake of my name (ESV)?"
4. What does God's motivation to act for the sake of his name tell us about God's nature? How is this an encouragement?
5. Notice the progression: God gives them something good (20:6; 10-12), but Israel rejects the good thing. What does Israel reject in 20:10-12? What is being revealed about human nature? What is revealed about the power of religious things to change hearts?
6. What is the crime listed in 20:18-21? What was the unfortunate spiritual heritage passed on in Israel? How do you think bad spiritual traits are broken between generations?
7. What do you think is the ultimate reason that God will not "be inquired of (ESV)?" How does God view the person who tries to serve God and other things? What are some ways that we try to serve two gods?
8. Verse 32 appears disconnected from 1-31 and 33-49. What do you think the purpose of this verse is? What does it mean?
9. What is God's response to the idolatry of Israel beginning in 20:33-39? What is God trying to show his people here? How should a realization of God's grace affect us in our sin?
10. What would happen to Israel when God brought them back into the land of Israel in 20:40-44? What good could come from their shame and loathing?

Key Words/Phrase

Jehovah's long-suffering, vv. 9, 14, 17, 22.

Characters

God, Ezekiel.

Strong Verse(s)

19, 20.