(14) Again the word.--This does not mark the beginning of a separate prophecy, but only the Divine answer to the prophet's intercession. This answer differs entirely from the denunciations that have gone before, because it no longer relates to the people of Jerusalem (for whom intercession was in vain: Ezekiel 9:9-10), but turns to the exiles, and foretells God's mercy and blessing upon them.

Verse 14. - The answer to that question comes as by a new inspiration from the word of the Lord.

11:14-21 The pious captives in Babylon were insulted by the Jews who continued in Jerusalem; but God made gracious promises to them. It is promised, that God will give them one heart; a heart firmly fixed for God, and not wavering. All who are made holy have a new spirit, a new temper and dispositions; they act from new principles, walk by new rules, and aim at new ends. A new name, or a new face, will not serve without a new spirit. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. The carnal heart, like a stone, cannot be made to feel. Men live among the dead and dying, and are neither concerned nor humbled. He will make their hearts tender and fit to receive impressions: this is God's work, it is his gift by promise; and a wonderful and happy change is wrought by it, from death to life. Their practices shall be agreeable to those principles. These two must and will go together. When the sinner feels his need of these blessings, let him present the promises as prayers in the name of Christ, they will be performed.Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,.... In answer to his prayer. The Targum calls it,

"the word of prophecy from the Lord;''

this was by way of comfort to the captives in Babylon, as the former was by way of threatening to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.