Ezekiel 22:28
“Her prophets have plastered for them with whitewash, seeing false visions, and divining lies to them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord Yahweh,’ when Yahweh has not spoken.”
What does Ezekiel 22:28 mean?
Ezekiel is condemning prophets who are lying to the people of Jerusalem, claiming God has spoken when he hasn't. The image of "plastering with whitewash" suggests they're covering up serious damage (the nation's sin and corruption) with a thin, attractive coating that hides the real problem underneath. These false prophets tell people comforting lies instead of delivering God's actual message, which is a call to repentance. It's a stark warning about how leaders and spiritual voices can do tremendous harm when they prioritize telling people what they want to hear over speaking truthfully, especially when they claim God's authority to back up their deception.