A New Heart: A Study in EzekielSample

What does it say?

God promised to judge the house of Israel’s evil conduct and restore them to the land of Israel so that they would know He is the Lord.

What does it mean?

God’s people had so completely embraced the other nations' culture, immorality, and idolatry that they felt no shame in disobeying God’s law and rejecting His covenant. Throughout the book of Ezekiel, God tells His people, “Then you will know that I am the Lord.” This phrase pinpoints the root problem – every sin they committed was a symptom of not recognizing the God of Israel as Lord. They demanded mastery over their own lives. At the beginning of the millennial age, the people of Israel will hate their past conduct and rejection of their God. At that time, all Israel will stand before Christ, the Good Shepherd, to be individually judged. Just as a shepherd inspects his sheep before they enter into the pen at night, Christ will allow only the redeemed to enter the land of Israel and the New Covenant. Their relationship with God will finally be as He always intended; His people will wholeheartedly recognize His rightful position as Lord and Master of all.

How should I respond?

Followers of Jesus already enjoy the spiritual benefits of the New Covenant – namely, an intimate relationship with God through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. It’s still possible, however, for a Christian to sin, but not without the conviction of the Holy Spirit. As a follower of Jesus, you cannot willfully disobey Scripture and maintain God-given joy. The Apostle Paul urged professing believers to examine their spiritual condition (2 Cor. 13:5). Take an honest look at your heart. Ask, “Can I practice sin without feeling miserable?” Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior but failed to recognize His right as Lord and Master of your life? Determine not to move on with your day until your relationship with Him is as He intends it to be.