Ezekiel 21:11 - A Bible Commentary

Bible Verse: "And he hath given it to be furbished, that it may be handled: this sword is sharpened, and it is furbished, to give it into the hand of the slayer."

Introduction

The verse Ezekiel 21:11 speaks of a sword that is both sharpened and furbished, a powerful image that conveys divine judgment. The context of this scripture is crucial, as Ezekiel prophesies the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the consequences of the people's rebellion against God. This commentary combines insights from various public domain sources, including Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the message contained within this verse.

Contextual Background

The Book of Ezekiel is a prophetic text, written during the Babylonian exile. Ezekiel, as a prophet, conveys messages of warning, judgment, and eventual restoration to the people of Israel. The chapter addresses the fate of Jerusalem and the folly of relying on their own strength rather than trusting in God. Ezekiel uses vivid imagery to illustrate the severity of God's impending judgment.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the nature of the sword, describing it as not just a physical weapon, but a symbol of God’s judgment. He interprets the phrase "furbished" as indicating meticulous preparation and readiness for action. Henry explains that the sword represents the Lord’s vengeance against the wicked, implying that the judgment is not arbitrary but a consequence of persistent rebellion.

• Divine Preparation: Henry notes that the furbishing of the sword signifies that God has equipped the means by which He will act against Jerusalem for their transgressions.
• Call to Repentance: The sharpened sword serves as a clarion call to the people to examine their lives and return to God before the judgment falls.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes approaches this passage by underscoring the inevitability and certainty of God’s judgment. Barnes articulates that the sword is representative of the swift and sure manner in which God executes His plans. He affirms that the sharpening of the sword implies its effectiveness and readiness, indicating that God will bring consequences for disobedience without delay.

• Symbolism of the Sword: Barnes highlights that the sword, often associated with military might, signifies both destruction and the authority of God as the ultimate judge.
• Impending Doom: He stresses that this image of a drawn, sharpened sword foreshadows immediate calamity for Jerusalem, a reality that their stubbornness had ignored.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke expands further on the prophetic meaning of this verse, linking it to the broader narrative of judgment within the scriptures. Clarke notes that the act of furbishing is deliberate, indicating that God’s judgment is thoughtful and measured. He remarks on the phrase "to give it into the hand of the slayer," linking it to the Babylonian forces that will execute God’s judgment on Jerusalem.

• Preparation for Judgment: Clarke’s commentary points out that this passage emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to employ nations as instruments of His purpose.
• Exhortation to Faithfulness: Clarke warns readers that ignoring the reality of such impending judgment leads to greater consequences, encouraging faithfulness to avoid the fate of destruction.

Theological Implications

The implications of Ezekiel 21:11 stretch beyond its immediate context, offering valuable lessons for contemporary readers.

• Understanding Divine Judgment: The verse highlights the nature of God's justice - it is neither arbitrary nor without purpose. God’s readiness to unleash judgment reflects His holiness.
• Call for Repentance: Just as the people of Israel were warned, modern believers are equally encouraged to remain vigilant, recognizing that unrepentant sin leads to spiritual peril.
• God’s Sovereignty: The imagery of the sword illustrates God’s control over history and nations, serving as a reminder that He uses even adverse situations to fulfill His divine plans.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 21:11 serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of God's judgment and the preparedness required of His people. Insights from renowned commentaries draw our attention to the implications of divine justice and the expectations God has for repentance and faithfulness. As we reflect on this scripture, may it lead us to deeper understanding and application in our own lives, calling us to live in a manner worthy of His calling.