Old Testament
Ezekiel 22:28
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the prophets are criticized for misleading the people.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Her prophets have smeared them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, 'This is what the Lord GOD says,' when the LORD has not spoken.
And her prophets have daubed them with untempered morter, seeing vanity, and divining lies unto them, saying, Thus saith the Lord GOD, when the LORD hath not spoken.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophets are criticized for misleading the people. They use weak and unreliable messages, like untempered mortar that cannot hold up under pressure. Instead of delivering genuine messages from God, they share false visions and lies. They claim to speak for God, but in reality, He has not communicated with them. This creates confusion and leads people away from the truth. The prophets' actions are dangerous because they distort God's intentions and misguide the community. The people are left vulnerable, relying on messages that lack substance and truth. This highlights the importance of discernment in spiritual matters, urging individuals to seek authentic guidance rather than accepting everything at face value. It serves as a reminder to be cautious about who we listen to and what we believe, ensuring that our sources align with true wisdom and integrity. Ultimately, it calls for a deeper connection with God to understand His true voice and intentions. Explore related deception.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 22:28 to your life
To apply this lesson, take time to evaluate the messages you receive from spiritual leaders. Ensure they align with your understanding of truth and integrity. Seek personal connection with God through prayer and study, allowing His voice to guide you. Be cautious of those who claim to speak for Him without genuine insight. Trust your instincts and seek clarity in your faith journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 22:28 mean?
Ezekiel 22:28 criticizes prophets who mislead the people with false messages, claiming to speak for God when they have not received His word. It highlights the danger of relying on unreliable spiritual guidance.
What is the meaning of 'untempered mortar' in Ezekiel 22:28?
'Untempered mortar' symbolizes weak and ineffective messages that cannot withstand scrutiny or pressure. It illustrates how the prophets' teachings lack substance and truth.
How does Ezekiel 22:28 relate to discernment?
Ezekiel 22:28 underscores the importance of discernment by warning against accepting messages from those who falsely claim to speak for God. It encourages individuals to seek genuine guidance.
What warning does Ezekiel 22:28 give about spiritual leaders?
Ezekiel 22:28 warns that not all spiritual leaders speak truthfully or represent God's intentions. It advises caution in following those who do not provide authentic insight.

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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