Book of Ezekiel: Chapter 15
Coming in at only 8 verses, chapter 15 of Ezekiel is one of the shortest chapters in the book. In this chapter, God tells Ezekiel what is known as the Parable of the Vine. His comparisons show us that Jerusalem is utterly lost and will soon be destroyed by the Lord.
In the Parable of the Vine, God begins by asking Ezekiel how a vine compares to a tree. In doing so, God points out how useful a tree is, and how useless a vine is. God’s metaphor leads to him explaining that the people of Jerusalem are likened to a vine. They are not strong, and are in no way as good as a tree.
God actually points out one good thing that vines are useful for: kindling. This point brings about God’s plan for the Israelites. Since they are no longer strong and useful, due to their idol worship and lack of faith in the Lord, God has a new plan for them. As God sees it, vines are only good for kindling, thus he will destroy those He sees as vines: the people of Jerusalem.
This brief parable shows us how truly upset God is with the people of Jerusalem. They have continually sinned against Him and haven’t repented their evil ways. God is so utterly hurt by this betrayal that He feels the only solution is the destruction of Jerusalem.
Key Verse:
“And this is what the Sovereign Lord says: The people of Jerusalem are like grapevines growing among the trees of the forest. Since they are useless, I have thrown them on the fire to be burned.” ~ Ezekiel 15:6 NLT
Questions to ponder:
- How does one become apathetic and unfruitful to God?
- How can one fulfill the plan God has for them?
