Ezekiel 9-12, Psalm 32 (By Rev. Deacon Margaret Friesen)

OBSERVATION

• God summoned his angelic warriors to destroy all those who worshipped idols, especially the leaders. God’s people had so egregiously offended God with their evil and wrong-doing that none were to be spared. A writer was also summoned to record the deeds of the Lord and to mark the forehead of those who worship the true God to save their lives.
• The cloud of glory in the temple (see ch. 1 for description and the first appearance) powered by whirling wheels and cherubim and shining with glorious light is a manifestation of the Lord’s glory. This vision is a reminder to Ezekiel that God is the one who has given Ezekiel this message. Following the vision, Ezekiel was carried back to Babylon.
• What an incredible vision! What does it mean? For reference on this, I listened to Dr. Ralph Alexander’s expository lectures on Ezekiel. See below: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ezekiel+exposition
• Immediately following the words of condemnation for the leaders of the people, Ezekiel received a message of hope for the exiled people. The Lord promised to be a sanctuary for his people while in exile, and to bring his people back to their homeland.
• Chapter 12 reiterates that this prophecy is true and they will know it’s true when it comes to fruition, and that it will happen soon.

 
INTERPRETATION
These chapters hark back to the first few chapters where Ezekiel is told he is a watchman for Israel (and Judah). He is to give the warning for judgement—which he does. Then he also relays the encouraging message that God will work with his people while in exile, then eventually bring them home again.
 
QUESTION
Has God given you a message that needs to be shared with the church, with your small group? I believe Ezekiel’s vision was a powerful reminder to him that God called him. Have you had an encounter with God—either through the Scripture? or by the Holy Spirit? or through God’s people? How does God speak to you? Are you able to recognize God’s voice?
 
PRAYER
Dear Lord God, please keep my ears and eyes and heart open to hear your voice. Teach me to recognize and understand your call to me. Give me courage to speak your truth to my sisters and brothers.
 
SONG Earth to God, by John Rich