Ezekiel

Ezekiel’s story is told in the book of Ezekiel

Who is Ezekiel?

  • A priest by birthright, belonging to the family of Zadok.
  • Lived during the time of the Babylonian captivity, and was among the Jews taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar.
  • Prophecies span 22 years during Israel’s exile in Babylon.
  • Received his prophetic call in a vision by the Kebar River in Babylon when he was around 30 years old.

Strengths and Accomplishments

  • Visionary: Known for his striking and symbolic visions, such as the valley of dry bones and the new temple.
  • Obedience: Consistently followed God’s commands, even when they were tough or made him look foolish.
  • Courage: Delivered God’s messages to the Israelites in Babylon despite the odds and the opposition.
  • Teacher: Used parables, symbols, and actions to teach the Israelites about their sins and God’s plans.
  • Hope-Bringer: Prophesied the restoration and spiritual revival of Israel.

Weaknesses and Mistakes

  • Grief-stricken: Struggled with God’s directive not to mourn publicly for his wife when she died.
  • Challenged by isolation: His obedience to God often required him to perform unusual acts that isolated him from others.

Lessons from His Life

  • God’s Presence: Ezekiel’s visions emphasize God’s omnipresence, even during exile.
  • Consequences of Disobedience: His messages often reminded the Israelites of the results of turning away from God.
  • Restoration: Despite the grim reality, Ezekiel gave hope to the idea that God could breathe life back into dry bones, both literally and metaphorically.
  • Responsibility: Introduced the idea that each individual is responsible for their own relationship with God, not just the nation as a whole.

Key Verses (NIV version)

  • “He said to me, ‘Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.’” (Ezekiel 2:1)
  • “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me.” (Ezekiel 33:7)
  • “Then he said to me: ‘Prophesy to these bones and say to them, Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD!’” (Ezekiel 37:4)
  • “My dwelling place will be with them; I will be their God, and they will be my people.” (Ezekiel 37:27)