12:12-14
The “prince” maybe Zedekiah, who would try to escape furtively but would be captured. He would then be brought to Babylon. “But he will not see it”. This will be a reference to his eyes being gouged out (2 Kings 25:7). Jeremiah also spoke about the things that Ezekiel is prophesying (eg Jer 21:7). The judgement would also fall on his staff and his troops. When evil men assume power it can seem wise to be on the right side of them, even to be part of their entourage. But all men fall eventually, and if the man was evil then those around him will also pay a great price. It is far better to be on the side of truth and righteousness.
12:15,16
“They will know that I am the Lord when ...” This is the purpose of the Lord, that we may know Him and who He is. Men deny that He is the Lord. Either by being atheists, or by worshipping other gods. Some would be spared “so that they can acknowledge their detestable practices”. Repentance is a key aspect of knowing God.
12:17-20
There is now a further demonstration. Ezekiel is to tremble as he eats his food, and shudder as he drinks water. This is to symbolise the fear and anxiety that will grab hold of the people in Jerusalem. The siege of the city and the associated devastation will be terrible.
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