Instruction
Scripture: Ezekiel 2:1-5
Ezekiel was among the brightest and best of Judea who were
taken into captivity by the Babylonians. He was a priest who was called to be a
prophet to declare to God’s people that they had abandoned him, but that God
would be merciful and he would, one day, restore them. This passage is his
calling and commissioning as a prophet. This passage sets the tone for
Ezekiel’s ministry, warning him that his ministry will be difficult and he will
face opposition from them. Nevertheless he is to faithfully proclaim God’s
Word.
Teaching
This passage does not paint a pretty picture of Israel. God
calls them rebels, transgressors, impudent, and stubborn. This is due to the
way that they disobeyed God’s Law, rejected his covenant, and took him and his
grace for granted. We might be inclined to ask how this could be, however it is
a reflection of the condition of all people. God repeatedly testifies about the
sinfulness of people in his word, and that sinfulness is what leads to the
rebellion, transgression, impudence and stubbornness.
God, then, is sending Ezekiel to testify to them what God
has said. Much could be written about God’s Law and Gospel here, and the
testimony God gives against his people along with the gracious promises he
makes to them. Yet there is something else to note: God sends Ezekiel. He wants
people to hear his word and to be confronted with their sin so that they may be
comforted by his promises.
Life
It is never comfortable to experience rejection from others,
but as we look at the world we live in we can see that people are no less
rebellious than the Israelites were. The warnings given to Ezekiel speak to our
hearts, too. Not only that, but we should note that those who call themselves
God’s people can stubbornly refuse his word and will today.
What then should we do? What would God have us do? We cling
to God’s word. “Thus says the Lord God,” becomes our source of authority and
power as we engage the world. Not only that, but the word of God which reveals
Jesus as our Savior and Lord is also our comfort and consolation to give us
courage. God’s promise is certain, and our lives declare to the world that not
only has a prophet been among us, but the Son of God has saved us and his
Spirit dwells within us.
Prayer
This prayer is written
with the theme of Instruction.
O God, you teach us with your word and call us to be your
people. You sent Ezekiel to his own people knowing that they were rebellious,
impudent, and stubborn. Open our eyes to recognize when we behave in those ways
contrary to your word. Also, Lord, teach us to know that you have sent a
prophet among us. The prophet we speak of if Jesus who proclaims your love and
grace to us. Teach us to hear and to never refuse to hear your word whether is
it read, spoken, sung, or however you deliver it. Teach us to recognize our
transgressions so that what you teach us of your forgiveness might be all the
more potent in our minds and hearts. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
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