Ezekiel: For His Gloryഉദാഹരണം

The oracles against the nations are now complete (chapters 25–32) and attention turns back to the house of Israel. This is the second half of the turning point of the book (cf. chapter 24). Jerusalem finally falls in this chapter, but before it does Ezekiel reminds his hearers of two responsibilities. 

The first responsibility belongs to the prophet himself (vv. 1–9). He must continue to act as a watchman, warning the people of God’s judgment (cf. 3:16–21). Ezekiel must continue with this task, even after the destruction of Jerusalem. The second responsibility belongs to the people (vv. 10–20). In response to their cry of despair, Ezekiel reiterates the mercy of God: He wants all people to turn to Him and live. The message of the importance of individual responsibility for sin is repeated (cf. chapter 18). 

Then it is announced: ‘The city has fallen!’ (v. 21). Ezekiel is vindicated because what he’s been prophesying happens. His tongue is loosened (v. 22), just as predicted (24:27; cf. 3:26). Now that he’s proven to be a genuine prophet, surely people will pay attention to him. Or will they? 

Ezekiel then proclaims a message about the survivors in Jerusalem (vv. 23–29). They will continue the Abrahamic promise, but the prophet proclaims that the future lies with the exiles. Indeed, since the survivors act wickedly, they too will suffer God’s judgment (vv. 25–29). Finally, God reports to Ezekiel the people’s response to his messages (vv. 30–33). The people come to be entertained by his words, but sadly they don’t take them to heart. As God warned the prophet, the people have stubborn hearts so they won’t take His word seriously (e.g. 3:7). 

Reflection

External identity does not save the people of Israel. Being a member of God’s people is not inherited. What is required is a response of faith, an internal commitment to God, and heartfelt obedience. This is the same message as in the New Testament: through faith in Christ, we are all children of God, irrespective of ethnicity (e.g. Gal. 3:23–29).