Old Testament
Ezekiel 12:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God is addressing the people of Israel, telling them that a common saying they have been using will no longer be relevant.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
"So tell them, 'This is what the Lord GOD says: I'm putting an end to that saying. No one in Israel will use it anymore.' Instead, tell them, 'The time has come. Every vision is about to be fulfilled."
Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is addressing the people of Israel, telling them that a common saying they have been using will no longer be relevant. This saying likely reflects their doubts about God's promises and the timing of His actions. God emphasizes that the time for fulfilling His visions and promises is now. He is making it clear that the wait is over, and what He has foretold will soon come to pass. This message serves as a wake-up call for the people to recognize the seriousness of the situation. They can no longer rely on old sayings that undermine God's authority and timing. Instead, they should prepare for the reality of His plans unfolding in their lives. This is a pivotal moment, urging them to pay attention and respond to God's message with urgency and faith. The shift from doubt to expectation is crucial for their spiritual journey and understanding of God's work in their lives. It invites them to embrace the new reality God is bringing forth, filled with hope and fulfillment. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 12:23 to your life
Reflect on the sayings and beliefs you hold that may undermine your faith in God's promises. Consider how you can shift your perspective to embrace the truth of God's timing and plans. Be open to the changes He is bringing into your life and respond with faith and readiness to act on His word. Trust that His promises are coming to fruition in your life now, not later. Stay alert and expectant for what God
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 12:23 mean?
Ezekiel 12:23 conveys God's message to the people of Israel that a common saying reflecting their doubts will no longer be used. God emphasizes that the time for fulfilling His promises is now, urging them to recognize the seriousness of the situation and prepare for His plans to unfold.
What is the significance of the proverb mentioned in Ezekiel 12:23?
The proverb mentioned in Ezekiel 12:23 represents the people's skepticism about God's timing and promises. By declaring it will cease, God is highlighting that their doubts are no longer valid as He is about to fulfill His visions.
How does Ezekiel 12:23 relate to God's promises?
Ezekiel 12:23 directly relates to God's promises by indicating that the time for their fulfillment has arrived. It encourages the people to move from doubt to expectation, reinforcing that God's plans are about to come to pass.
What should I take away from Ezekiel 12:23?
From Ezekiel 12:23, you should take away the importance of recognizing and embracing God's timing in your life. It encourages you to let go of doubts and be ready for the fulfillment of His promises, responding with faith and readiness.

The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
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