Ezekiel: For His GlorySample

The first test of Ezekiel’s obedience comes in this passage (2:9 – 3:3). The prophet is shown a scroll, filled on both sides with words of judgment (2:9–10). Ezekiel is then asked to eat the scroll, which he does, and, paradoxically, it tastes sweet (3:1–3). Even words of woe and gloom are like honey because they are God’s words. 

God next repeats His call to Ezekiel: to present God’s words to His hardened people, words that the prophet has just swallowed (3:4–11). This is a vivid illustration of the prophet’s role as God’s mouthpiece. The words do not come from the prophet’s imagination but come directly from God (cf. Deut. 18:18). 

The Spirit then brings Ezekiel back to the rest of the exiles (3:12–15). After all that the prophet has seen, it is not surprising that he is overwhelmed for a whole week (3:15). But, surprisingly, he feels bitterness and anger (3:14). Why does he feel like this? It may be because he is infuriated with God’s call for his life, or he shares some of the hardness of the people, or he feels God’s indignation at the rebellion of the people. Or it may be a combination of all these. 

At the end of seven days, God again speaks to Ezekiel to further describe his role (3:16–21). The prophet is to be a watchman, warning of impending danger. Unlike a typical watchman, however, Ezekiel is not stationed in the tower of the city. Instead, he is to give warning of the impending judgment of God because of the peoples’ continued sin. Those who choose a life of righteousness will find life; those who choose wickedness will experience death. A watchman may be the prophet’s task but then he finds himself restricted, both physically and verbally (3:22–27). 

As Christians we too are watchpersons. We must warn of the coming and certain judgment of God against sin and wickedness. We need to urge people to repent. We need to get out there and spread the gospel because people cannot be saved apart from hearing it (Rom. 10:14).

Reflection

How can you sound the alarm as a watchperson among your family and friends?