What is the meaning of Ezekiel chapter 15 verses 1-8?

Answer 1

Ezekiel chapter 15 is a message from God to His people via His prophet. God juxtaposes His people to a tree. The wood is useful and has purposes for it being used in different situations. However, it needs to bear forth that use otherwise it is only useful to be burned, and when it is unembered coal it is useless. The people of God (the Sons of Israel and Abraham) are to be cultivated in God's covenant. They have a puropose and blessing when they are living according to His path.

This passage comes in a time when Israel was rebelling against Yahweh by worshipping false idols and doing as they saw fit in their own eyes. Just as the burnt wood has no use or purpose so too would His people be useless and unblessed. He warns them against his wrath and says He will make their land desolate.

Jerusalem has frequently been referred to (or imaged as) a grape vine. The grapes are pictures of the fruits God's people should be bringing forth. The covenant God swore with Abraham was that "... through you I will bless all nations." When Israel does not heed God's call anymore He can no longer bless them, just as you would not give your own child a candy for being bad. When they are not bearing the fruits of this blessing they are useless.