Ezekiel is like the anti-Jeremiah. Jeremiah was tender-hearted and prone to fits of depression. Ezekiel was stubborn with a much harder edge. God even said, "Like an adamant stone, harder than flint, I have made your forehead." (3:9) This prophet had a tough assignment though. His job was to tell the Jews taken into Babylonian captivity that their sin and rebellion was the cause for all their misery. You can imagine how well that message was received.I admit, Ezekiel is one of the more challenging books, but it contains some of the most evocative object lessons in Scripture. Sometimes Ezekiel was called on to act out the lessons. Sometimes he built models. Sometimes he just told stories. No matter what the method each was designed to demonstrate God's care and provision for a rebellious nation even in the midst of judgment.
Here are some things to consider as you study Ezekiel:
In chapters 1-3 like Isaiah, Ezekiel gets a vision of God and a divine commission. What responsibilities does Ezekiel have? Do we as believers have those same responsibilities? God is very frank about how hard Ezekiel's job will be. Is this encouraging or discouraging?
Keep track of the object lessons. List what the object or event is and what it represents, along with the message God has. (For example, how does Ezekiel portray the siege of Jerusalem? Note: The siege is actually taking place as Ezekiel performs this. Chapter 16 is an allegory about God's care for Israel and her response. Another important one in the vision of dry bones in chapter 37.)
What do you learn about the character of God and His judgment?
One recurring theme is the gradual departure of the glory of God. Watch for its movement. What prompts each step of its departure?
In the midst of all the prophecies of judgment and destruction is a clear message of restoration. When and how will Israel be restored? What does this tell you about God?
Have you studied Ezekiel before? What insights have you gained?
Next week: Daniel
