Archives for September 2017

OVERVIEW: Nebuchadnezzar’s tree dream and Daniel’s interpretation; Belshazzar (grandson of Nebuchadnezzar) and the handwriting of God on the wall; Daniel in the lion’s den.

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

In chapter 4, Nebuchadnezzar has another dream. This time the dream was about a huge tree overshadowing the entire earth that was ordered to be cut down by an angelic voice. Once again, the king summoned his wise men to interpret the dream, but to no avail, and so once again, he called upon Daniel, the man of God, to provide the interpretation. After hearing the description of the dream, Daniel was rather reluctant to declare the troubling interpretation, sitting in complete silence for a solid hour. The dream dealt with some pretty disconcerting things the king would be encountering in his near future.

The interpretation/explanation of the dream was not difficult. The tree represented Nebuchadnezzar and his mighty kingdom. It would be cut down because Nebuchadnezzar did not give God the glory, even after beholding all of the things God had done. (see Dan. 1–3) The interpretation specified that not only would Nebuchadnezzar lose his position, but he would be forced to live like a beast of the field for seven years. The intent of those seven horrific years was obviously to teach Nebuchadnezzar humility, and yet, even after hearing and believing the interpretation, he refused to repent, and continued with his prideful boasting. (4:30) While his boastful words were still in his mouth, the interpretation of the dream began its fulfillment.

For seven years he lived like a beast, just as the dream had delineated. After those seven long years, he finally “lifted up his eyes unto heaven…and blessed the most high.” (4:34) Though it took these drastic measures to finally flush out Nebuchadnezzar’s pride, this chapter is essentially the story of Nebuchadnezzar’s conversion! Our God is, indeed, merciful! Hallelujah! May Nebuchadnezzar’s powerful statement in 4:37 be a very practical warning to all of us: “those that walk in pride [God] is able to abase.”

Yet, recognize that this chapter is actually a prophetic preview of what will befall the nations of the world in the latter days. Just about the time the nations will be boasting of their greatness and glory, God will send seven years of awful judgment upon them, bringing them extremely low. Then, at the end of the tribulation period, Christ will return to the earth to establish His millennial kingdom. The nations that have trusted Him will enter into the glorious kingdom while the others will be abased.

In chapter 5, Daniel is now about 80 years old, and Belshazzar, Nebuchadnezzar’s grandson, is now king. Apparently, Belshazzar had not been impressed with his grandfather’s decision to worship the one true God of heaven, as we find him in this chapter throwing a party in honor of one of the Babylonian gods. However, he was not content to simply drink wine in honor of his gods. His rebellious spirit made him feel the need to also blaspheme the God of the Jews (and the whole earth), bringing in the sacred temple vessels to be used in his idolatrous and blasphemous feast. (5:3–4) It was then, that a mysterious hand appeared, writing a secret message on the wall, causing Belshazzar to shake uncontrollably in fear. (5:6) As usual, the king’s experts could not interpret the message in the handwriting on the wall causing the king to become even more freaked out. (5:9) Evidently, the queen hears about how God had crashed her wicked husband’s party, and enters into the room to tell him about a man by the name of Daniel who could most certainly provide the interpretation of the writing.

Obviously, Belshazzar was completely oblivious of Daniel, and Daniel’s God! Daniel is summoned, as we have grown to expect, and quickly proceeds to exercise his God-given spiritual wisdom in providing the interpretation. Three key words summarize God’s message to Belshazzar in the infamous “handwriting on the wall” (a phrase used to this day because of this account, to refer to circumstances that clearly indicate imminent disaster): “numbered, weighed, and divided”. Belshazzar’s days were “numbered” and his time was up! He had been “weighed” on God’s scales and found wanting! Now, his kingdom would be taken from him and “divided” by the Medes and Persians. The question is, did Belshazzar actually believe Daniel? There is certainly no evidence of repentance, or the least bit of concern, for that matter! He did, however, keep his promise to Daniel, putting him third in command, as if his kingdom would continue forever. Yet, that same night, Belshazzar was slain and the Medes and Persians took the kingdom, just as God had said! (5:30–31)

Chapter 6 deals with a day in the life of Daniel, the Prime Minister of the Medo-Persian empire. God had honored Daniel’s faithfulness through many different kings and kingdoms. Don’t forget, though, that ever since Cain and Abel, the wicked have hated the righteous, a fact proven again by the events in this chapter. The other leaders of the land conspire against Daniel and manipulate the king to pass a law prohibiting any man from petitioning any God or man, except for the king, for a period of 30 days. This, of course, was a trap specifically designed to ensnare Daniel, because they knew he purposely and consistently cleared off time in his busy schedule three times during the day to pray to his God. They also knew he would continue regardless of the law, choosing to obey God rather than men. (6:10; Acts 5:29)

After hearing of this new law, just as His conspirators suspected, Daniel fearlessly continued his pattern of praying three times a day just as before! Though the king loved and respected Daniel, because of the law, he was forced to cast Daniel into the lion’s den even against his own inner desires. (6:14) The law simply could not be reversed, even by the king himself. (6:15) Daniel, of course, was placed into the lion’s den, sending King Darius into a night of fasting…and sleeplessness! (6:16–18) When morning finally arrived, much to the king’s delight, he discovered that Daniel’s God had miraculously spared him from the mouths of the lions. (6:19–23) The men who had accused Daniel were then cast into the lion’s den and killed. (6:24) The king then made a decree stating that Daniel’s God was the one true God, and that He was to be feared and followed. (6:25–27) Daniel went on to prosper in the kingdom throughout the reigns of Darius and Cyrus. (6:28)

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As GOD’S ANGEL sent to shut the lion’s mouths — Daniel 6:22 (Rev. 20:3; 1 Pet. 1:8; Heb. 11:33)

OVERVIEW: Daniel and his friends are taken captive in Babylon away from their families (Chapter 1); Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and Daniel’s interpretation (Chapter 2); The image of gold erected by Nebuchadnezzar and the refusal of Daniel’s three friends to bow down and worship it (Chapter 3).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Since the Jews had refused to repent and follow the Lord in obedience through the passionate preaching of the prophet Jeremiah, the Babylonian army came in and conquered their land just as Jeremiah had warned. In those days, when a nation would overtake another nation, it was customary that the very best and most promising of their youth would be taken to be trained in the king’s court. Since Daniel and his three teenage friends were all princes of the royal family (1:3), they were the ones who were snatched from their homes in Jerusalem, and taken to the king of Babylon’s palace. The king’s goal, of course, was to conform them to the ways of Babylon, that they might serve his purposes in his kingdom for the rest of their lives. As is detailed in 1:4b–7, this conforming process involved a new home, new knowledge, new diets, and new names. Obviously, Satan’s strategy today is no different than it was then! He is bent on conforming God’s people (and maybe we could say, especially young people!) to the kingdom of this present evil world’s system (Rom. 12:1–2) that they might serve his purposes for the rest of their lives! (2 Tim. 2:26)

Showing unbelievable courage and maturity, however, Daniel and his friends purposed in their heart that they would not defile themselves with the king’s meat. (1:8) They dared to stand for what they believed to be true and right, even though it meant doing so at the risk of their own lives. Risking their own lives was one thing, but their decision also meant risking the life of Melzar, the one the king had appointed to control the diets of the Hebrew children.

Melzar understood that if it would become evident, by their physical appearance, that they were not following the king’s directions it would mean his neck, as well as theirs! (1:10) Daniel believed God would honor their refusal to eat the king’s meat, and asked Melzar, in whom he had found favor, for a 10-day trial of simply eating pulse (vegetables) and water to prove that God would step up on their behalf. God did, indeed, step up, as their countenance was much healthier looking after the 10-day trial period than the others who were eating according to the king’s prescribed diet. So often we talk about the law of sowing and reaping (Gal. 6:7–8) from a negative standpoint but this happens to be a positive example of the principle! Because of the great faith and trust these young men sowed at this point in their life, they reaped God’s promotion and protection in the worldly kingdom of Babylon throughout the remainder of their lives!

In chapter 2, Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, has a dream and demands that the wise men in his court not only interpret it, but actually tell him what the dream was! None were up to the task, so Nebuchadnezzar ordered all of the so-called “wise men” to be slain. At the last minute, however, God reveals the dream and its interpretation to Daniel. He proceeds to tell the king the dream, sparing the lives of the wise men from certain death. Nebuchadnezzar is quite impressed and pleased with Daniel, and to show his appreciation, promotes Daniel, and his three friends, to key positions of authority in his kingdom. It should be noted that the dream that Daniel interpreted was actually a prophetic outline of world history. It describes the kingdoms and governments that would rule the world beginning with Babylon at that time all the way up to this present day! (2:28) In fact, without the revelation of the prophecies in the Book of Daniel, it would be impossible to interpret the Book of Revelation. The two books go hand in hand. (1 Cor. 2:13)

Chapter 3 takes place approximately 20 years after Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. While Nebuchadnezzar had acknowledged that Jehovah God is the “God of gods, and a Lord of kings” (2:47), he evidently suffered a major lapse in memory in that 20-year period. In this chapter, he sets up a golden image of himself, requiring every person in the entire kingdom to bow before it and worship it. Obviously, this poses a major problem for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Babylonian names of Daniel’s three Hebrew friends). If they were so surrendered to God’s Word that they refused to eat the king’s meat, they certainly would have no part in bowing down before the king’s image! (Note: Daniel must have been away from the kingdom at the time the image was set up, because his uncompromising and godly character most certainly proves that he would have been among those who refused to bow down to the image!) Their refusal to bow to his golden image caused Nebuchadnezzar to have them cast into the fiery furnace. In the midst of the furnace, there is an incredible pre-incarnate appearance of the Lord Jesus Christ, the fourth man in the fire, who protected them, not only from the flames, but even from the very smell of smoke! Nebuchadnezzar was reminded, once again, of the power of Jehovah God, and made a decree stating that it was illegal for anyone to speak against Him! He also promoted these three men in his kingdom.

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As THE STONE — Daniel 2:35, 45 (Jesus is the chief corner stone — Eph. 2:20; 1 Pet. 2:6–7; Rom. 9:31–33)

As the FOURTH MAN IN THE FIRE — Daniel 3:25

OVERVIEW: The allotment of land for the priests and the millennial temple (chapter 45); offerings and sacrifices during the millennium (chapter 46); the waters of the land healed and the land divided (chapters 47–48).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapter 45 begins with an allotment of land to be offered unto the Lord during the millennium. (45:1–8) This portion of land will cover a territory of about eight square miles. A rectangle of 25,000 X 10,000 cubits in the middle will be for the temple, and will be set aside as the dwelling for the priests. A similar rectangle to the north of it will be for the Levites. On the south, there will be a rectangle of 25,000 X 5,000 cubits that will be reserved for the city itself. (Note: A “cubit” is an ancient linear unit based on the length of the forearm, from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. It is usually considered to be a unit of measurement that is from 17 to 21 inches, or 43 to 53 cm.) Ezekiel’s description allows us to see that the temple will be the focal point of the land, and that it will be surrounded by an area for the priests on the east and west, an area for the Levites on the north, with the city located to the south. An area for the prince (discussed in yesterday’s reading) will exist outside the domain of the priests.

After detailing the layout of the land, Ezekiel admonishes the priests of his day to execute judgment and justice by ceasing to take advantage of the people. (45:9–12) The conduct to which the priests had grown accustomed will certainly have no place in the millennial kingdom. Ezekiel 45:13–17 records the offerings Israel will give to the prince. The prince in turn will make provision for the sacrifices for public worship. The remainder of the chapter (45:18–20) records the institution of a new festival to start the “new year” with an emphasis on holiness, as well as the reinstitution of the Passover and the feast of tabernacles. (45:21–25) Note also that the offerings in the millennial temple will be much richer and more abundant than those under the law.

Chapter 46 deals with the offerings and the sacrifices that will be offered during the millennium. We are also informed about the reinstitution of the Sabbath. (46:1) Also note that the sabbath is an entirely Jewish observance and was never intended to be kept by anyone other than a Jew! (Rev. 2:9b) God clearly reveals that it was a “sign” that He instituted specifically and exclusively between He and the nation of Israel. (Eze. 20:12; Deu. 5:14–15) As the people who comprise the Lord’s church, for us to try to incorporate the sabbath into our worship makes us “false worshippers” who are offering to God “false worship!” (John 4:23) Ezekiel lets us know in 46:12 that it will be on the sabbath when the prince will enter through the eastern gate of the inner court to lead the children of Israel in worship.

Ezekiel 46:16–17 teaches that if the prince gives an inheritance to his sons, it is permanent while a gift given to a servant, lasts only to the year of Jubilee. What an incredible picture that paints for us! Because, praise God, His “Prince” (our Lord Jesus Christ, Acts 3:15; 5:31) deals with us as “sons” and not as “servants!” (Gal. 4:7; Rom. 8:14)

Chapter 47 begins with Ezekiel being escorted again to the door of the temple. (47:1) The waters issue forth from the entrance, symbolizing that all blessings flow from the presence of the Lord. (Jam. 1:17) God then heals and transforms the waters of the Dead Sea, a body of water that had formerly been incapable of supporting life, into a living sea of fresh water! (47:6–12) It is an incredible picture of the fact that we, too, we’re a body that was incapable of supporting life, but has now been spiritually healed and transformed by the power of God, and is now capable of providing “life” to those who are dead in trespasses and sins! (Eph. 2:1) The remainder of this chapter (47:13–23) and chapter 48 deal with the dividing of the land. It should be noted that the stranger (the “non-Jews”) living during the millennium will not be excluded. (47:21–23) The Mosaic Law did not permit the stranger to acquire land. It will, however, be permissible during the millennium. The right is extended to those who will settle permanently in the land of promise, having children there. This further reminds us of the fact that there will be children born during the millennium.

The final chapter (48) deals with the distribution of the Promised Land for the millennial age. All the tribal portions extend across the breadth of the land. All the tribes are west of the Jordan, with a central tract of land separated for the temple, for the city, and for the prince’s land (discussed in chapter 45). Notice that Dan is the first tribe mentioned as Ezekiel begins talking about the distribution of the land. What makes that so interesting is that when the tribes were listed in Revelation 7, concerning the 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel that will comprise the 144,000 witnesses of Jehovah during the tribulation period, the tribe of Dan had been written out of the list of tribes because of their idolatry. (Rev. 7:5–8) But glory to God, in the millennium, God, in His grace and mercy, will restore the tribe of Dan! Don’t ever forget, our God is all about restoration! He restores what has been lost! He repairs what has been broken! He sees past our failures! He seeks our restoration!

The Book of Ezekiel began with much of Israel in exile. Nebuchadnezzar was the king of the world. Over the course of Ezekiel’s life, the glory of the Lord departed from the temple, and the temple and Jerusalem were burned and destroyed. In these last nine chapters, however, God has given Ezekiel a glimpse of Israel’s future. The Book of Ezekiel ends with a new city, and the name of that city is, “The Lord is there!” (48:35) Hallelujah!

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As waters of life coming forth form the presence of God — Ezekiel 47:1 (John 4:14)

OVERVIEW: Measurements of millennial temple (chapter 41); measurements of the temple chambers (chapter 42); God’s glory returns to the temple (chapter 43); the priests. (chapter 44)

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapters 41 and 42 describe the specific measurements of the temple. Note that it is Christ alone, not Ezekiel, who enters the “most holy place” of the temple! (41:3–4) This serves as a great reminder that it was Christ alone who entered the most holy place to make atonement for our sin! (Heb. 9:8, 12; 10:19) The side chambers will be the priest’s quarters in the millennial temple. (41:5–11) This serves as a reminder to us of the priesthood of all believers.

The priesthood of all believers is a very key New Testament doctrine. In the Old Testament, there was only a select group of men who were chosen to offer sacrifices as Levitical priests in accordance with the law. These priests were all prophetic shadows pointing, of course, to our great High Priest, the Lord Jesus Christ, who would by His one sacrifice for sin, bring the need for a Levitical priesthood to an end. But what the New Testament teaches, is that because of Christ’s sacrifice, He has now made all of us who have called upon His name for salvation, part of a new priesthood, commonly referred to as ”the priesthood of all believers.” Peter said of us in 1 Peter 2:9: “But ye are a chosen generation, a ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” In Revelation 1:5–6, John said: “… Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and PRIESTS unto God and his Father…” Peter said that we are Christ’s “HOLY PRIESTHOOD, to offer up SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Pet. 2:5) It should be noted that there are at least seven “SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES” referred to in scripture:

1. The sacrifice of PRAISE. (Heb. 13:15; Psa. 54:6; Jer. 33:11)
2. The sacrifice of THANKSGIVING. (Psa. 107:22; 116:17; Heb. 13:15)
3. The sacrifice of DOING GOOD and COMMUNICATING to OTHER’S NEEDS. (Heb. 13:16)
4. The sacrifice of our BODY. (Rom. 12:1)
5. The sacrifice of a BROKEN SPIRIT. (Psa. 51:17)
6. The sacrifice of RIGHTEOUSNESS. (Psa. 4:5; 51:19; Deu. 33:19)
7. The sacrifice of FAITH. (Phi. 2:17)

In light of these sacrifices, we would all do well to ask ourselves, “Am I fulfilling my role in bringing glory to God as a New Testament priest?”

The galleries mentioned in Ezekiel 41:15–20 were buildings having decorations described as palm trees and cherubim. Between the palm trees was a cherub with two faces: the face of a man, and the face of a lion. These faces obviously represent both the HUMANITY and KINGSHIP of our Lord Jesus Christ — who was 100% MAN, and at the same time, 100% GOD! The altar of incense is described in Ezekiel 41:21–26. (c.f. Exo. 30:1–3) The incense represents the prayers of God’s people. (Psa. 141:2)

Note that there is no reference to the Ark of the Covenant in the furnishings of the millennial temple. This is a direct fulfillment of Jeremiah 3:16–17: “And it shall come to pass, when ye be multiplied and increased in the land, in those days, saith the Lord, they shall say no more, The ark of the covenant of the Lord: neither shall it come to mind: neither shall they remember it; neither shall they visit it; neither shall that be done any more. At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the Lord; and all the nations shall be gathered unto it, to the name of the Lord, to Jerusalem: neither shall they walk any more after the imagination of their evil heart.” Obviously, there will no longer be a need for the Ark as a type of Christ in the temple, for Christ Himself will physically be sitting on the throne of His glory in the temple during the millennium!

Chapter 42 contains specific measurements of the court temple chambers (42:1–12), details concerning the use of the chambers by the priests (42:13–14), and the measurement of the outer wall and entire complex. (42:15–20) The walls in the millennial temple will be approximately one mile on each side, which means that the millennial temple will not fit on the current Mount Moriah (where Solomon’s temple stood). This will require a “modification” of the land. The prophet Zechariah spoke about this change in the topography of the land in Zechariah 14:9–10: “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and his name one. All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmon south of Jerusalem…”

Chapter 43 must be understood in the context of Ezekiel’s previous prophecy. Earlier in the book, we saw that God’s glory had departed from the temple. (10:19; 11:23) This chapter speaks of God’s glory returning to a future physical temple. (43:1–5) Praise God for His mercy and grace, and for His passion for the glory of His own name! (Eze. 20:9, 14, 22, 44; 36:23; 39:7, 25) May we also learn from the Book of Ezekiel, that God’s name was always intended to dwell in all of its glory in the temple, and, therefore, God’s/our enemy has always hated it. The record of history is clear about that! There has always been a war for the glory of our God’s name as it has dwelt in the temple. The enemy hated Solomon’s temple — it was ultimately burned by Babylon. The enemy hated Zerubbabel’s/Herod’s temple — it was ultimately burned by Rome. The enemy hated Christ, who was the personification of the temple (Mat. 12:6; Joh. 2:19) — and He was crucified by Rome. God has now made us His temple where He has set His name (1 Cor. 6:19–20) — and so now, the enemy hates us! We are now the target of the enemy on planet earth. Satan seeks to devour us (1 Pet. 5:8) — because he wants to devour the glory that God is worthy of receiving from the temple of our lives. There may even be times when he is successful! However, just as God’s glory will return to the physical temple, God can take lives that the enemy has destroyed and restore them for His glory! Do recognize, however, that unlike the physical temples of the Old Testament, God will never leave us! (Heb. 13:5; Eph. 4:30)

Chapter 44 deals with regulations for the priests who will serve in the millennial temple. Once again, as the priesthood of believers, we find numerous pictures of how we should minister in our priesthood. It should be noted that “the prince” described in Ezekiel 44:3 is permitted to enter through the vestibule, or the porch of the eastern gate — the same gate through which the Messiah has entered! This prince cannot be the Messiah, however, for the simple fact that he offers a sacrifice for his own sin. (45:22; Heb. 4:15) This prince is referred to at least 14 times in chapters 44–47. We cannot be sure as to the identity of this prince. He is most likely a descendant of David. Some students of the scripture believe he may even be David himself! We can only speculate.

Will there be sin in the millennium? This is often a confusing concept for believers. We must remember that at the end of the millennium, there will be yet another sinful rebellion against God. (Rev. 20:7–9) But just who will these rebels be? Be it known, they will certainly not be us! As believers in Christ from the church age, we will carry out our existence in the millennial kingdom having received a glorified body that will be exactly like Christ’s glorified body, which, of course, is a body incapable of committing sin. (Phi. 3:21; 1 Cor. 15:53–54; Col 3:4; Rom. 8:23) Hallelujah! But also know that there will be tribulation saints who will “endure to the end” of the tribulation period (Mat. 24:13); who will also enter into the millennial kingdom in mortal bodies; who will continue to have children and further populate the millennial kingdom. These will be born with a sin nature, and must willingly choose to receive Christ. When Satan is loosed for that little season at the end of the millennium, they will make their choice. Sadly, and might I add, unbelievably (!!!), there will be those who will ultimately choose to reject Christ. Why? For the same reason people reject Christ today. They simply refuse to submit to Christ’s Lordship. (Luke 19:14)

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As the One who enters the “most Holy place” — Ezekiel 41:3–4 (Heb. 9:8,12)

OVERVIEW: The resurrection of Israel (Chapter 37); God’s judgment against Gog (chapters 38–39); Ezekiel’s vision of the millennial temple (chapter 40).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapter 37 continues a series of prophecies given to Ezekiel the night before the messenger of Ezekiel 33:21–22 arrived. God knew that Israel would faint in their hearts once they knew that Jerusalem had been destroyed and the temple had burned. The word “hopeless” would be a completely fair description!

God takes Ezekiel to a valley full of dry bones. He asks him if the bones can live again. It is important to realize that if the children of Israel didn’t believe in an individual resurrection (as some liberal scholars would suggest) this vision would have no meaning. Ezekiel is commanded to prophesy to the bones (37:4) and to the wind. (37:9) After Ezekiel follows God’s instructions, the bones are resurrected before his very eyes. God explains the meaning of the vision in Ezekiel 37:11–14. These bones represent the whole house of Israel being resurrected as a nation.

The Jews were cut off from their homeland; defeated and without hope. God gives Israel hope. He gives them His Word. He promises that Israel, as a nation, will be resurrected! (Isa. 66:8) God tells Ezekiel to join together the sticks upon which He has written a name that represents a part of Israel, illustrating the fact that Israel will be one nation. (37:15–19) The remainder of the chapter looks forward to the millennium.

Chapters 38 and 39 tell of a northern confederacy of nations (38:6, 15) who will invade the Promised Land and wage war against Israel. (38:16) The phrase “after many days” and “latter year” in Ezekiel 38:8 indicates that this prophecy is tied to the coming of Christ at His Second Advent. (39:11) This confederacy will then be led by the antichrist (Rev. 12:1-3) and will be the recipient of God’s fury and wrath. (38:18–23) It will take Israel seven months to bury the dead! (39:12) God also instructs Ezekiel to speak to the carrion birds and carnivorous animals to consume the fallen flesh. (Rev. 19:21) Chapter 39 ends with God’s promise to never hide His face from Israel again. This prophetic promise refers to the beginning of the millennial kingdom.

INTRODUCTION TO EZEKIEL 40-48

The last nine chapters of Ezekiel, beginning with chapter 40, form an inseparable unit. Explicit details about Christ’s millennial reign follow the great battle described in chapters 38 and 39. This portion of scripture provides more detail about the 1000-year kingdom than all other Old Testament prophecies combined. In these chapters, we will find a vivid description of the millennial temple and reinstated Jewish rituals and sacrifices. This portion of Ezekiel must be approached the same way we have approached the previous 39 chapters, literally! Ezekiel, who is a priest, is speaking of a literal temple, and literal sacrifices, that will exist in a literal future kingdom! We must be careful to understand that the reinstatement of the temple and sacrifices in no way nullifies or diminishes the finished work of Christ on the cross. Just as the sacrifices in the Old Testament pointed to the finished work of Christ on the cross, the sacrifices in the millennium will point back to the finished work of Christ on the cross. These last nine chapters break down as follows:

• The New Temple. (40:1–43:12)
• The New Worship. (43:13–47:12)
• The New Appointment of Land. (47:13–48:35)

Note that the Book of Ezekiel began with a vision of Christ at the Second Advent and ends with a vision of Christ in the millennial kingdom.

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As “THE MAN” in Ezekiel 40:3

OVERVIEW: The responsibility of the watchman and the fall of Jerusalem (chapter 33); Wicked shepherds and God’s Shepherd (chapter 34); Judgment against Edom (chapter 35); The restoration of Israel (chapter 36).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapter 33 begins with God’s admonition to Ezekiel concerning his responsibility as a watchman for Israel. Once again, God emphasizes that it is not Ezekiel’s responsibility to change the heart of the people. It is, however, his responsibility to proclaim His truth. Because of Ezekiel’s warning, the children of Israel considered their situation hopeless. (33:10) However, within God’s admonition, we also find His mercy.

As we have been reading the prophecies of Jeremiah and Ezekiel against Israel for the last several weeks, it may begin to seem that God takes pleasure in inflicting judgment on His people. Recognize, however, that nothing could be further from the truth! God reminds Ezekiel (and us!) that He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires that the wicked would repent and live. (33:11) May we also recognize, that our responsibility to our lost friends and neighbors is no different than Ezekiel’s responsibility to his kinsman. We, too, are watchmen, entrusted with the responsibility to warn those who are presently on a collision course with God’s wrath to turn from their sin and turn to Christ (1 Thes. 1:11), and begin walking in the statutes of life and live. (33:11–16) Like Ezekiel, we are seated on the wall of a city, as it were, knowing full well God’s judgment is imminent. Those asleep in the city are our own family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. God forbid that we would be silent. We would do well to ask ourselves, who have we warned of God’s impending judgment this week? With whom have we shared the incredible message of God’s mercy and grace through the gospel of Christ?

Note also, that chapter 33 reveals the unfathomable depths of man’s pride. Rather than responding to Ezekiel’s message in repentance, the children of Israel actually had the audacity to question God’s fairness in how He exercises judgment! (33:17–20) This is the typical response of man to the reproof of God’s message. To this day, we still hear people questioning God with questions like, “How could a loving God send people to hell?” We must recognize that questions such as this are nothing more than man’s attempt to refuse take responsibility for his own sin. God makes very clear, regardless of their criticism of Him, that every man will be judged after his own ways! (33:20)

For years, Ezekiel had warned that Jerusalem would eventually fall to Babylon. In 33:21, one who had escaped Jerusalem notified Ezekiel that it had finally happened. Jerusalem was destroyed in 586 B.C. (2 Chron. 36:19) Before the messenger even arrived, however, Ezekiel knew that Jerusalem had fallen. Verses 23–29 record God’s word to Ezekiel informing him of His judgment the night before the messenger came. Ezekiel further warns those who were spared in the destruction of Jerusalem and scattered in the land that they were still in the path of God’s impending judgment! (33:27–28)

The end of chapter 33 contains a short commentary on how many of God’s people in every generation speak against their leaders. Even those in exile with Ezekiel were talking against him. (33:30) Historically, it has been one of the enemy’s greatest tactics against any congregation of God’s people. God makes Ezekiel aware of what is actually taking place behind the apparent success in his “meetings!” God tells Ezekiel, “Sure, multitudes all flock together to be in your presence, and sure, they all look like they’re hanging on every word, and sure, it looks like something wonderful is taking place. The only problem is, they’re not going to do a single thing you tell them!” God goes on to explain to him, “Oh, they talk a big game about how much they love but their hearts have no interest whatsoever in following Me or My ways. Their hearts are only desirous of following after their own covetousness. The only thing they really love is themselves!” God tells Ezekiel that he was really nothing more than the people’s entertainment and that nothing he said would change the way the people lived. I hate to sound so negative, but what God is describing to Ezekiel sounds a whole lot like what He could say to many pastor’s in these last days! God help us! God tells Ezekiel, however, that once His judgment had been poured out, His people would certainly know that a prophet had been among them! (33:31–33)

Chapter 34 contains Ezekiel’s condemnation of Israel’s leaders. Instead of protecting and providing for God’s people, they had only served themselves. They had failed to care for God’s people and had failed to meet their needs. (34:2–6) Because of the failure of Israel’s leadership, the children of Israel had been scattered. (34:5–6) God says, however, that He would personally seek out His lost sheep and save them. (34:11–16 c.f. Matt. 9:36) There is still a future restoration for the children of Israel.

God then promises that He will set up “one shepherd” even His servant David. (34:23–24) This is a reference to the Shepherd who would come from David’s lineage, our blessed Lord Jesus Christ! (John 10:11) Note that the passage is pointing specifically to Christ’s ministry during His millennial reign.

Chapter 35 contains a prophecy against Edom, which is called Seir. (Gen. 32:3) Mount Seir covers the mountainous area settled by the Edomites. This prophecy has already been fulfilled. Edom was first defeated by Babylon, then by Medo-Persia, and then in 126 B.C. by John Hyrcanus, the Hasmonean, who compelled the Edomites to become Jewish proselytes. Since that time, there has been no trace of the Edomites.

Chapter 36 speaks to the restoration of Israel. Even in the midst of their exile and judgment, God asks creation to remember His promise to Israel. (36:1) Because of their disobedience, Israel would be scattered but God also promises that they would be restored! God specifically says, in Ezekiel 36:24, that after they had been scattered, He would gather the children of Israel out of all of the countries of the world, and bring them again into their own land. This was fulfilled in 1948 when the Jews returned to their homeland after World War II. It should be noted, that never in the history of civilization has any people ever been able to maintain their identity without a homeland. The Jews were miraculously able to do it, however, so that this specific prophecy could be fulfilled! The restoration of Israel is one of the greatest proofs that the Bible is, in fact, God’s Word. Prior to 1948, many scholars scoffed at those who believed that Israel would be physically gathered together again as stated in Ezekiel 36:24. After 1948, however, it isn’t hard to see at all. Blessed are those who don’t have to see to believe! (John 20:29)

Ezekiel 36:25–38 speaks to the restoration of Israel in the millennium. Recognize that we are presently living in that tiny “space” between Ezekiel 36:24 and 36:25! “But this I say, brethren, the time is short!” (1 Cor. 7:29)

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As the ONE SHEPHERD — Ezekiel 34:23–24 (1 Pet. 5:4)

OVERVIEW: God’s judgment upon the prince/king of Tyrus (chapter 28); God’s judgment upon Pharaoh (chapter 29); God’s judgment upon Egypt (chapter 30); the fall of Assyria (chapter 31); a lamentation for Pharoah/Egypt (chapter 32).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapter 28 concludes God’s judgment against Tyre. This passage has been dated shortly before the siege of Tyre by Nebuchadnezzar (585–573 B.C.). The prince in view in 28:2 was Ithobal II, who reigned in Tyre during this seige. His bombastic arrogance is demonstrated by the fact that he actually considered himself to be God! (28:2) If the pride that this historical ruler of Tyre was exhibiting sounds familiar, it should because it was actually being fueled by the same being that at one time said, “I will be like the most high!” (Isa. 14:12–14; Eze. 28:16–17) The precision of the imagery and the verbiage in this passage reveals that this judgment not only refers to the historical ruler of Tyre, but also to the judgment of Lucifer himself!

Ezekiel mentions that this “prince” was wiser than Daniel (28:3), which indicates that there was obviously some supernatural power enabling him, but it also indicates that Daniel was well-known throughout the world by this time. When Ezekiel made this statement, Daniel would have already served in Nebuchadnezzar’s court for an estimated 25 years.

While Ezekiel states that this “prince” has been successful in accumulating wealth, he also lets us know that it was his pride that brought about God’s judgment. (28:6) The demise of the prince is prophesied in 28:10: “Thou shalt die the deaths of the uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord God.” Note that the invasion of Tyre by Babylon was also prophesied in Jeremiah 27:1–7. The word “moreover” in 28:11 marks a transition in this account, revealing to us that Ezekiel is about to go further in his condemnation of the ruler.

The careful reader will observe that this particular ruler is referred to as “the king” (28:12) rather than “the prince” (28:2). While it is true that the terms “king” and “prince” are often used interchangeably in Scripture, it is also true that secular history does not record a “king” of Tyre, only a “prince”. Why the distinction? Why did Ezekiel change terms? The answer lies in the identity of this “king”.

This king is said to be “full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.” (28:11) While the case may be made that this description could refer to a mortal man in some sense, the next phrase cannot. This physical, earthly king had certainly not been, and could not have been, “in Eden the garden of God”! Some scholars suggest that Ezekiel was simply referring to a garden that was so beautiful it could be compared to Eden. The only problem with that interpretation, is that it is very simply not what the text says! This “king” to whom the Lord was speaking, had literally been in Eden!

It is apparent that the Lord, by the mouth of Ezekiel, is no longer speaking to the ruler of Tyre, but speaking through the physical ruler to the spiritual ruler that, at that time, was working through him! Ezekiel is actually speaking to a being who had been in Eden over 3,000 years prior to this prophecy; none other than “King Lucifer” (Satan) himself! Lest that interpretation sound far-fetched, recognize that this is not the only time in scripture when the word of the Lord spoke “to Satan” as he was speaking to a literal, physical man! Do you recall that in our Lord’s earthly ministry, when looking directly at Peter, and responding to what Peter had just spoken, Jesus said, “Get thee behind me, SATAN!” (See Matt. 16:22–23) Obviously, Peter had not at that moment turned into Satan incarnate, but rather, Jesus was speaking to the spiritual power that was operating in him and through him at that moment. This is what is happening in Ezekiel 28:11–19.

So, what Ezekiel 28:11–17 actually provides for us, is a very enlightening description of Lucifer (meaning “lightbearer”) before his fall. Verse 13 lets us know that God had specifically created him with precious stones and musical instruments woven into the very composition of his being. The precious stones were obviously part of his composition so that he might fulfill his role as the “light-bearer” reflecting and refracting the light of God into every color of the rainbow throughout the entire universe as it passed through his jewels. The musical instruments, that also comprised his makeup, were apparently given so that he might fulfill his role as the “worship leader” of the “sons of God” as he would provide the music to which the “sons of God” would sing in praise to the Lord. (Job 38:4, 7)

Notice that 28:17 also refers to Lucifer as the “anointed cherub” who was the epitome of perfection until iniquity was found in him. In Isaiah 14:13–14, Isaiah details that his “iniquity” was expressed through the declaration in his heart of his infamous five “I WILL’s”:

• “I WILL ascend into heaven”
• “I WILL exalt my throne above the stars of God”
• “I WILL sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north”
• “I WILL ascend above the heights of the clouds”
• “I WILL be like the most High.”

Note also that the ruler of Tyre not only pictures Lucifer, but the coming antichrist. Within this chapter we find this ruler described as:

1. A man. (28:2)
2. A prophet. (28:3)
3. A king. (28:2,11)
4. A priest. (28:13 — as symbolized by the precious stones which were also worn by priests in the O.T.)

This ruler represents the presence of Satan (who was once in Eden), personified through a man, who will seek to counterfeit the offices of a prophet, priest, and king.

In 28:17–19, the judgment upon this man is also revealed. God will one day bring “fire” from within this adversary (the antichrist) to devour him. God tells him that he will be reduced to ashes and scattered for the world to see, and “never shalt thou be anymore.” (28:19) The “man” who is the rightful Prophet, Priest, and King, who is the very “God-Man” Himself, will defeat him! This chapter ends with a promise to Israel concerning the millennial reign of this “Man”, our glorious Lord Jesus Christ! (28:25–26)

Chapters 29 through 32 record God’s judgment against the nation of Egypt. Keep in mind, Israel had turned to Egypt for help against Babylon contrary to God’s instruction. (Jer. 42:14–22; 43:7–11) Egypt had been successful in causing the Babylonians to lift the siege against Jerusalem (Jer. 37:5–7), however, in time, Egypt returned to their homeland and Jerusalem was eventually invaded and burned. (Jer. 37:8–10) In 29:17–20, once again, Egypt is falling under the condemnation of God, and once again, God is using Nebuchadnezzar to accomplish His will. From a historical perspective, Nebuchadnezzar was running out of resources as he continued to wage war against Tyre. (29:18) God empowered him to conquer the land of Egypt, and Nebuchadnezzar used the spoils to pay his army to continue to fight.

Chapter 29 ends with a prophecy concerning the Lord Jesus Christ, describing Him as “the horn of the house of Israel” that would “bud forth.” (29:21)

In chapter 31, once again, God addresses Satan by speaking to and through a man. This time, the man was Pharaoh. (31:1–9) In this passage, God likens Satan to a tree in Eden that stood above all of the other trees (31:5) and talks about how the other trees of Eden envied him. (31:8–9) During this same time period, Daniel also uses the metaphor of a tree to describe Nebuchadnezzar, who is a type of the antichrist. (Dan. 4:10)

Recognize that God chooses to address these Gentile leaders of these Gentile nations (Tyre, Babylon, Egypt) to speak to Satan because the antichrist’s kingdom will be a conglomeration of Gentile nations who will ultimately unite during the Tribulation Period, in an effort to destroy Israel and to rule this world. (Psa. 2:2–3; Rev. 12) By speaking to Satan through these Gentile leaders, God is continually reminding him that one day, both he and his kingdom will be destroyed. As a preview of what God holds in store for him in his future judgment, God does what He says He will do and brings each one of these Gentile nations to ashes. We must keep in mind that the entire Bible is all about a battle for a kingdom and God continues to remind Satan, and us, of exactly how the story is going to end!

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As the horn of the house of Israel — Ezekiel 29:21

 

OVERVIEW: God’s purging of Jerusalem (chapter 24); God’s judgment against Gentile nations (chapter 25); God’s judgment against Tyre (chapter 26–27).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapter 24 refers to Jerusalem as a “bloody city.” Twice Ezekiel speaks the word of warning from the Lord, saying, “Woe to the bloody city.” (24:6,9) Ezekiel is instructed to tell a parable about a bloody stew that represents Jerusalem. Numerous times in the Word of God the shedding of “innocent blood” is mentioned as a cause for God’s vengeance. (Deut. 19:10; 1 Sam. 19:5; 1 Kings 2:31) The shedding of blood in the Old Testament looked forward to “THE innocent blood” that would one day be shed at Calvary. (Mat. 27:4) It is true that the “innocent blood” of our Lord Jesus Christ redeemed us from sin, but it is also true that those who do not accept God’s gift of grace will be held accountable for the death of God’s only beloved Son, suffering the judgment of God’s righteous wrath. God hates the shedding of innocent blood. How God must love us to have allowed the innocent blood of His beloved Son to be shed for our sin!

Ezekiel is also instructed not to mourn when his wife dies. (24:15–18) In this, God intended that Ezekiel picture the fact that there will be no time to mourn when God’s judgment comes on Jerusalem. Once again, this foreshadows the coming “Day of the Lord” when judgment will be swift and calamitous. However, notice that even in God’s judgment there is mercy. In 24:25–27, Ezekiel speaks specifically to certain Jews who will escape the judgment of Jerusalem and come to Babylon. Historically, this is fulfilled in Ezekiel 33:21, but prophetically, points to those who will be saved out of the judgment of the Tribulation Period.

In chapter 25, Ezekiel’s prophesies against Gentile nations. These nations are judged because they rejoiced when Israel was chastened by God (25:3, 6, 8), and because they had taken vengeance on Israel when she was weak. (25:12,15) The doctrinal principle is clear: God does not take kindly to people rejoicing when Israel is chastened! Much of the world rejoices when bad news is broadcasted concerning Israel. There are many others who look forward to the day Israel will suffer during the tribulation. Those nations who bring judgment against Israel are a pawn in the hand of God to execute His sovereign plan. However, after God has used them He will bring His judgment upon them! On a more devotional note, the lesson is clear. We should never rejoice when we see God’s chastening on others. (Pro. 24:17)

Chapter 26 and 27 begin a three-chapter judgment against Tyre. The eleventh year in 26:1 refers to the eleventh year of Jehoiachin’s reign. In 586 BC, the eleventh year of Jehoiachin’s captivity, on the tenth day of the month, Jerusalem was captured. It is Nebuchadrezzar that God will use to bring judgment on Tyre. It is interesting to note in 26:7, that Nebuchadrezzar is called “a king of kings” making him a type of the antichrist. Just as Nebuchadrezzar ruled the kings of the world, the coming antichrist will also stand in authority, ruling the world until the true King of kings arrives, making quick work of him! (Gen. 3:16; Rev. 20:1–3)

Tyre, an ancient city of the Phoenicians, appears for the first time in the Bible in the Old Testament in Joshua 19:29. In Old Testament times, Tyre was a great commercial city. During the reign of David and Solomon, Tyre exercised great influence on the commercial, political, and even religious life of Israel. Hiram, king of Tyre, was a devoted friend of David (2 Sam. 5:11) who helped both David and Solomon in their building projects. (1 Kin. 5:1–12; 1 Chron. 14:1; 2 Chron. 2:3, 11) Though Tyre and Israel were friendly in the days of David and Solomon, they later drifted apart. The Tyrians then later sold Jews as slaves to the Greeks and to the Edomites. (Joel 3:4–8; Amos 1:9–10) This entire chapter is a lamentation describing Tyre as a very glorious and great trade ship destroyed by the high seas.

The prophecies set forth in chapter 26 through 28 were fulfilled literally, and with unmistakable clarity (Isaiah 23; Jer. 47:4), reminding us that everything in the Word of God will come to pass, exactly as God has detailed it. May we receive that reminder today as a blessed promise and a stern warning!

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As the One who shall “set glory in the land of the living” during the Millennium — Ezekiel 26:20

 

OVERVIEW: Judgment pronounced against Jerusalem (chapter 21); Jerusalem’s sin (chapter 22); Jerusalem’s seduction (chapter 23).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

Chapter 21 contains instruction from God for Ezekiel to sigh in the midst of the people. When asked by the people the reason for his bitter anguish, he is instructed to again remind Israel that God’s judgment is imminent, and will affect every person in the entire nation. God uses the visual image of a sharp sword being removed from its sheath to illustrate His judgment in this chapter. In the historical context, the sword represents the king of Babylon. (21:19) From a prophetic standpoint, this sword foreshadows the day Christ will come in judgment upon this earth with a sword that proceeds out of His mouth which, of course, is the Word of God! (Rev. 19:15)

Ezekiel is also instructed to make a map and trace on it two routes for the king of Babylon to follow. One route goes to Jerusalem, while the other route will take him to Rabbath of the Ammonites. Ammon had conspired with Judah in 593 B.C. to rebel against Babylon. The question was whether the king of Babylon would decide to attack Rabbath or Jerusalem. Ezekiel is instructed to illustrate how the king of Babylon would call upon his gods to decide which path to take and which city to attack. To determine his course, the king of Babylon would use three types of magic. The first type of magic was the use of arrows. The arrows would be marked with a name, put in a quiver, and whirled about. The first one to fall out would reflect the decision of the god. The next form of magic was the use of “images” or teraphims. From the record of history, we learn that these images were actually the mummified heads of children! The third, and most common form of magic was the “liver.” It involved distinguishing judgment based upon the color of a sacrificed lamb’s liver. Upon hearing from his gods, the king of Babylon would choose to attack Jerusalem.

The Jews were skeptical of Ezekiel’s continual prophecies against Judah and Jerusalem. They doubted that the “magic” of the king of Babylon would result in his choosing Jerusalem as a target, and further doubted his ability to take the city. (21:23) Although the king of Babylon was using magic as His guide, as Proverbs 21:1 teaches us, his heart was in the hand of the Lord. God would use the king’s magic to bring judgment against His people.

God instructs Israel to remove the “diadem”, worn by the priests, and the “crown”, worn by the kings. Pay special attention to Ezekiel 21:27. God says: “I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.” The fact that God uses the term “overturn” three times expresses the most severe judgment against these offices (the office of priest and king). God specifically states that after their captivity, neither of these offices would be restored, that is, until our Lord Jesus Christ comes! Notice how God the Father refers to His beloved Son in this verse. He states that Christ is the only One who truly has the right to the title Priest and King anyway!

Note also, that from an historical standpoint, the “wicked prince of Israel” is Zedekiah. (21:25–27) From a prophetic standpoint, however, Zedekiah typifies the coming antichrist.

In chapter 22, Ezekiel chronicles Jerusalem’s sins. Once again, God begins by judging the leadership. He specifically mentions the prophets, priests, and princes. (22:25–28) The specific sin of the priests was their violation of the law in not distinguishing between that which was holy and that which was profane. (22:26) The sin of the princes was their desire to make money at the expense of people. (22:27) The sin of the prophets was just flat-out lying about what God had said. (22:28) God looked for a man among the leadership to stand in the gap. The sad reality is He found none. Even the great prophets Ezekiel and Jeremiah were unable to turn the heart of a single man among the children of Israel to repentance. There would be a man who would come 400 years later, however, who would stand in the gap for all mankind! The “God-Man”, our Lord Jesus Christ! Hallelujah!

Notice in chapter 23 that the capital city of the Northern Kingdom, Samaria, and the capital city of the Southern Kingdom, Jerusalem, are likened to two sisters who are seduced into adultery by their “lovers”: the elder sister, Aholah, representing Samaria, and the younger sister, Aholibah, representing Jerusalem. Samaria was seduced by Assyria (this historical alliance is recorded in Isaiah 7:1–2, 10:5–11), and Judah was seduced by Egypt. As we have seen, Israel is repeatedly warned in scripture not to go to Egypt for help. But as we have also seen, Israel continually disobeyed God’s instruction. This culminated in Zedekiah’s formation of an alliance with Egypt against Babylon. (17:15)

Through the illustration of these two harlot sisters, chapter 23 provides one of the most vivid descriptions of the seduction of sin in the entire Bible. Interestingly, sin always follows a specific pattern, or process. This process can be summed up in four observable steps identified in this chapter:

1. (23:5–7; Jam. 1:14) The process begins when sin becomes “desirable” (23:6) to us.
2. (23:9; Jam. 1:15a) It continues as God allows us to be “delivered” (23:9) to the passions we are allowing to control us.
3. (23:13, 17; Jam.1:15b) Acting upon our passions causes us to be “defiled.” (23:13, 17)
4. (23:22–49; Jam. 1:15c) God then allows our sin to run its destructive course in our lives. (Jam. 1:15c; Rom. 6:23)

Note also in chapter 23, that both Samaria and Jerusalem got what they wanted and it ended up destroying them both! There are also several other key principles worth noting in this chapter:

• Lust for what we see will eventually lead to actions. (23:14–16)
• What we see can destroy our mind. (23:17)
• Those who seduce us in the name of “love” will eventually hate us. (23:22, 28)

What a warning against the consequences of viewing pornography. And what a warning to those who covet wrong relationships!

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As the One who has the “right” to be both Priest and King ruling over Israel — Ezekiel 21:27

As the One who will stand in the gap — Ezekiel 22:30

OVERVIEW: The parable of the eagles (chapter 17); Man’s responsibility for sin (chapter 18); God’s lamentation for Israel’s captivity (chapter 19); God refuses inquisition (chapter 20).

HIGHLIGHTS & INSIGHTS:

As we move into Ezekiel 17 today, God instructs Ezekiel to speak a parable to the house of Israel utilizing the figure of eagles. (17:1–10) The first eagle represents Nebuchadnezzar and how he came to Jerusalem, took away the king’s seed (the twigs), then planted them again in Babylon. The highest branch of the cedar tree represents king Jehoiachin, the king of Judah, who was exiled in 597 B.C.

When Nebuchadnezzar removed Jehoiachin, he replaced him with a native Judean prince, Zedekiah, instead of a foreign ruler. With the help of Nebuchadnezzar, Zedekiah was surrounded by favorable conditions and prospered in his reign. Nebuchadnezzar’s hope was that the kingdom of Judah would stay dependent on him, but it was not to be!

The second eagle in Ezekiel’s parable represents Egypt and specifically Pharaoh-hophra, to whom Zedekiah looked for help. The prophet Jeremiah had warned Zedekiah not to make an alliance with Egypt (Jer. 37:5–7; 44:30), but Zedekiah ignored Jeremiah’s counsel and foolishly made an alliance with them. (17:15) Although Egypt offered temporary relief from the oppression of Nebuchadnezzar, in the end, Babylon defeated Egypt and put Zedekiah to death. The sad reality is, had Zedekiah simply obeyed God’s counsel to him through Jeremiah, he would have been fine. Oh, may God help us to learn from Zedekiah’s tragic mistake! Because, like Zedekiah, we often find ourselves in trials and temptations that threaten our safety, or our well-being. In those situations, we can choose to listen to the voice of God, as it is revealed in His Word, or we can seek to escape the adversity by looking to worldly alternatives (Egypt). By God’s grace, we must learn to tenaciously stick to what the Word of God says and completely trust God with the outcome. Our worldly scheming will never produce a positive result.

In 17:22–24, Ezekiel reveals a messianic prophecy. The phrase, “One of the highest branches,” refers to Christ, who, unlike Zedekiah, will overshadow a mighty kingdom. Note the surety of God’s Word in the statement, “I the Lord have spoken and have done it.” God actually refers to a future event as if it were history! God’s Word is certain, folks! The surety of what He has declared is completely the same whether He’s talking about the past or the future! Oh, may that reality infuse us with confidence in His holy Word today!

Chapter 18 begins with a proverb that serves as a warning to those who want to blame others for their problems. The children of Israel were blaming their forefathers for their being exiled. They said that their forefathers had “eaten the sour grapes,” and that was what had caused their “teeth” to be “set on edge” (18:2), or caused them to suffer through the sharpness of being exiled. Notice that God flatly rejects their blame-shifting and their refusal to assume personal responsibility for their situation. This is a very significant passage for those of us living in the 21^st century, because many people in our time have fallen into the same trap of blaming someone else for their circumstances, or for being the way they are. We hear it all the time, “My Dad this…” or “My Mom that…” or “If I would have had a different upbringing…” or “If my parents would have…” etc., etc. God goes on in this chapter to teach a very fundamental scriptural principle, and that is: each of us must take responsibility for our own actions and choices. It’s true, we didn’t get to choose our parents, and we can’t always control our circumstances, but the fact is, we can always control our own attitudes, choices, actions, and reactions.

The Children of Israel had been offered mercy, if they would have simply repented. Instead, they chose to commit the same sins as their forefathers, and then, blamed them for why they did it! Again, may God help us to take personal responsibility for our lives now knowing that there will be no blame-shifting or finger-pointing at our ultimate accounting before Him at the Judgment Seat of Christ. The chapter ends with God reminding Israel that His true heart’s desire is always for repentance. (18:32) May we learn the invaluable lesson of taking personal responsibility for our sin, then repenting of it with godly sorrow and godly repentance! (2 Cor. 7:10)

In chapter 19, Ezekiel records “a lamentation for the princes of Israel.” (19:1) The word “lamentation” means a “loud cry”. It is a poetic song (usually three beats, followed by two beats) that expresses deep emotion. This lamentation is for king Jehoahaz, who languished in an Egyptian prison (2 Kings 23:31–33), and for king Jehoiakim, who was taken captive and deported to Babylon (2 Kings 24:1–12). They are depicted as lion’s whelps. (19:2, 5) The lamentation ends with a summary of Israel’s current state (19:10–14). Her exile is pictured as a plant in a dry and thirsty ground. The last verse states that Israel has no sceptre to rule. Notice also, the strange terminology in 19:14, that Ezekiel’s “lamentation shall be for a lamentation.” (19:14) In other words, there would be the immediate lamentation of Israel’s condition, and yet, Israel will also suffer a future lamentation during the great tribulation. That tribulation (lamentation) will end with Israel’s Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ, coming to reign over the earth from His throne in Jerusalem, and He will rule with a sceptre made of an iron rod! (Rev. 19:15)

Chapter 20 begins with the leadership (“the elders”) of Israel coming to Ezekiel to enquire of the Lord. God, obviously knowing their hearts and their real motives, instructs Ezekiel to tell them that He would not be enquired of by them. He goes on to remind them that because of their “leadership,” Israel had not only been disobedient but were presently living in disobedience. The chapter ends with a vivid and descriptive picture of God’s judgment with fire. (20:45–49) The leaders of Israel reply by “spiritualizing” Ezekiel’s message instead of taking it literally. They accuse Ezekiel of speaking in parables, when it is clear that this chapter is anything but a parable! This same thing takes place today: many people and denominations spiritualize what God intends to be taken literally and take literally what God intends to be understood spiritually.

CHRIST IS REVEALED:

As the “TENDER ONE” planted upon a high mountain — Ezekiel 17:22