Note, the elders of Judah are distinguished from the elders of Israel; see chapter 8: 1. But then Israel is looked at as the nation as a whole; compare chapter 37: 16, and the general use of the word "Israel," as chapters 19:1; 17: 2, and many others.
36. This passage used to be a difficulty in connection with the clear evil that was amongst the Jews in the Land in the latter day, but it seems to make both the distinction and circumstances of Israel, and also the bearing of Ezekiel plainer than before—so, ever. In chapter 8 we have the elders of Judah, but not after. Israel is the subject which afterward is before the prophet; compare also chapters 9, 10 and 11. Particularly too, see chapter 2:15, 16 and 17, as to our Lord's ministry, and consider the distinction between the power and tribes as other than the Jews, or how far then as a scattered nation; See Zechariah, and Ezek. 37 Here the " house of Israel " seems to include them nationally, but the house of Israel in Jerusalem, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem are constantly spoken of distinctly while Zedekiah was there. Except the refusal to be inquired of, and consequent judgment in this chapter, none of the statements in Ezekiel are addressed to those concerning whom they are spoken. It still recognizes Israel in Jerusalem, and speaks about it till taken, though giving warning concerning the captives; compare chapters 3, 15, 16, 23: 26, 27, 24 and 25: 7. The testimony would be a witness to them in the dispersion, but, when spoken to Israel, was about those in Jerusalem and in the Land.