Ezekiel 14:5

"Therefore speak to them and tell them, ‘The Lord GOD says: “Every man of the house of Israel who takes his idols into his heart and puts the stumbling block of his iniquity before his face then comes to the prophet, I the LORD will answer him there according to the multitude of his idols,"

Key Reflection

Ezekiel 14:5 addresses a significant issue within ancient Israelite society where idol worship was prevalent, even among those who claimed to follow God. The Lord emphasizes that individuals who bring their idols into the temple and seek divine guidance through prophets are essentially acknowledging multiple gods, thus receiving prophetic responses based on the number of their idols—a stark reminder of their polytheistic inclinations within a monotheistic framework. This verse highlights the tension between outward religious practices and internal spiritual devotion, challenging the Israelites to truly turn from idolatry and return fully to the worship of the one true God.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

That I may take ... -i. e., that I may take them, as in a snare, deceived by their own heart.

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