EZEKIEL
- Ezekiel served as prophet to those exiled in Babylon from 593 - 571 BC.
- Both Ezekiel & his people are taken to Babylon as captives.
- The Jews became strangers in a strange land ruled by an authoritarian government.
- Due to the people’s sins, God allowed Judah to be destroyed.
- God promised to restore the land to those who remained faithful to Him.
- God NEVER forgets those who faithfully seek to obey Him.
The Mega-Themes
1) God’s Holiness - Ezekiel saw a vision that revealed God’s absolute moral perfection. God is spiritually & morally superior to anyone in creation ... in this case the corrupt & compromising society of Israel. Because of His moral perfection, he can help those who ask to live above their tendency to compromise with this world. When we focus on HIS greatness, He gives us the power to overcome sin & become a reflection of His holiness.
2) Sin - God’s people sinned, God’s punishment came. His punishment was used to correct the people & draw them back to righteous living. Ezekiel warned them specifically that not only was their nation responsible for sinning, each individual was also accountable to God. Christians must realize what sin is ... rebellion against God. He wants us, using our own free will, to choose to follow Him instead.
3) Restoration - Ezekiel provides consolation to the exiled peoples of Israel by telling them a day is coming when God will restore those who turn from their sin. He will be their king and shepherd. They will receive a new heart to worship Him. A new temple and government shall be established.
When you place all your faith and trust in Almighty God you always have hope. Patience is required to see God’s restoration materialize within you as well as all around you. Turning from God is selfish and self-centered. Never think you are in any way greater than your creator. It simply isn’t possible.
Up next is the book of Daniel. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible
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