Ezekiel Study

Home , Ezekiel 1, Ezekiel 12, Ezekiel 23, Ezekiel 26

THE WHOLE BIBLE

EZEKIEL

This Bible study, one of 66 studies covering the entire Bible, is made up of one-page lessons covering short sections of the book. The electronic format (student’s and leader’s guides) allows adaptation to individual needs.

Benefits of one-page lessons: • Hand out only what you need, relative to the length of the class session and how much content you wish to cover. Taken at a steady pace, a page can be covered in about 20 minutes. • See at a glance all the material that pertains to the section being covered. Use the discussion questions as your basic outline and draw in material from the “Look” and “Apply” sections as you wish.

Suggestions for using these lessons: • Teach an entire book, or teach just part of a book. • Use a single lesson sheet for a “19 Minute” style Bible study. • Use a single lesson sheet as a meeting opener, either as a devotion or a short Bible study. • Build your own Bible studies. The possibilities are endless. For example: Assemble all the lessons on the penitential psalms, psalms of praise, or David’s early years. Assemble sections that deal with predestination, and teach the pertinent passages in their context. Study all references to mountains, cities, nations, etc., pointing out their importance in the lives of God’s people.

Note: The appropriate pages in The People’s Bible commentary volumes are referenced. However, the authors were given the freedom to develop their own studies, so these lessons are not, in a strict sense, study guides to those volumes.

We pray these lessons will help God’s people grow in faith and in service to his kingdom.

The following authors participated in writing for this project: John Beck, Allen Beyersdorf, Jeffrey Bonack, Matthew Crass, Charles Degner, Steven Degner, Michael Feuerstahler, William Fischer, Aaron Frey, Stephen Geiger, James Getka, Eric Hartzell, Robert Hochmuth, James Janke, Paul Janke, Armin Keibel, Brian Keller, John Kelly, Geoffrey Kieta, Thomas Kock, Robert Koester, David Kolander, Brian Kom, Arnold Kunde, James Langebartels, Lyle Luchterhand, Harry Marks, Peter Panitzke, James Pope, Joel Prange, David Reichel, John A. Schroeder, John P. Schroeder, Snowden Sims, Philip Spaude, Carl Voss, Robert Voss, Keith Wessel, Mark Wilde, James Witt, James Ziesemer.

The material on this disk may be adapted, printed, and copied by the purchaser of this kit. However, the following notice must appear at the bottom of each page of the student lessons: © 2006 Northwestern Publishing House. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Ownership of this material belongs to either a congregation or an individual, but not both.

Purchase by a congregation: Purchase of this material by a congregation gives Bible study leaders of that congregation permission to adapt and copy this material for use in one or more groups within that congregation. (Dual parishes may purchase one copy for use in both congregations.)

Purchase by a pastor or other Bible study leader: Purchase of this material by an individual gives the buyer permission to adapt and copy this material for Bible classes he or she teaches or supervises. Buyer has permission to use this material only in the congregation he or she is currently serving or attending.

The “NIV” and “New International Version” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by International Bible Society. Use of either trademark requires the permission of International Bible Society.

Northwestern Publishing House 1250 N. 113th St., Milwaukee, WI 53226-3284 www.nph.net © 2006 Northwestern Publishing House Published 2006 Printed in the United States of America ISBN: 978-0-8100-1463-3 The Whole Bible Project Ezekiel

Ezekiel 1:1-3 God’s people are in exile (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 7-9) Look Verse 1 “I was among the exiles.” Ezekiel’s ministry takes place in Babylon, where the Lord had exiled Judah because of its idolatry and rebellion against him. Ezekiel’s work was to tell the exiles not to expect a quick return. Jerusalem would not be spared as they had imagined. The 30th year probably refers to Ezekiel’s age. A priest normally began his work when he was 30 years old. Verse 2 “The fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin”—To understand Ezekiel’s message, it is important to understand the chronology of the Babylonian captivity. The Babylonian captivity was not a single event but rather a series of three events extending over about 20 years. The Babylonians became the world ruler in 605 B.C. They defeated the Assyrians in 612 B.C. and Egypt in 605 B.C. In that year, 605 B.C., they conquered Judah (but did not destroy Jerusalem) and took people into captivity. Included in that deportation were Daniel and his three friends. In 597 B.C. Babylon attacked Jerusalem and took Jehoiachin captive and put his uncle Zedekiah in control of Jerusalem and Judah (2 Kings 24:6-13). This is when Ezekiel was taken into captivity. When Zedekiah rebelled in 586 B.C., Babylon completely destroyed Jerusalem and took the rest of the people into captivity. That this would happen is Ezekiel’s message to Israel. We see a pattern in all this. The Lord took Daniel and his friends into captivity first. They became established in the government of Babylon—at the highest levels—and the Lord used them to testify to Babylon that he, the Lord, was in control, and that Babylon was merely a tool God would use to punish (and care for) his people and so fulfill his promises. Then when the line of David (Jehoiachin) was taken into captivity, God provided a prophet (Ezekiel) for his people, who were now officially in captivity. In this way God prepared the Babylonians and his people for the final destruction of Jerusalem that would happen 13 years later. Ezekiel’s prophecy began in the fifth year of Jehoiachin’s captivity, or about seven years before the fall of Jerusalem. Discuss 1. Use this question to make sure you understand the sequence of events. How did God deal with his people in 605 B.C. when Babylon became the world power?

in 597 B.C. when David’s line was taken into captivity?

in 586 B.C. when Judah and Jerusalem were destroyed and depopulated?

When God’s people fell away from him, he sent them into exile. Yet he prepared Babylon to receive his people, and he sent a prophet to warn and comfort them.

Ezekiel 1:4-28 Ezekiel sees visions of living creatures and of the Lord (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 9-17) Look Verse 4 “Out of the north”—The enemies of Israel always attacked from the north. Although Ezekiel is in Babylon, the Lord uses this direction to make clear the message of the vision. The armies of the world come out of the north, but the Lord’s glory, acting on behalf of his promises, also comes out of the north, moving and shaping the world’s powers to do his will. Verse 5 “Four living creatures”—Although we cannot claim complete certainty as to the identity of the four living creatures, we can make a good guess. In the scheme of numbers in the Bible, 4 seems to be the number of the earth. The four faces on the creatures represent the animals and man that God created. Verses 17,18 “Wheels . . . full of eyes”—There seems to be a close association between the eyes and the spirit of the Lord. The same spirit that animated the creatures also animated the wheels (verse 20). In Revelation 5:6, Jesus has seven eyes, which are identified as the seven spirits of God (that is, the Holy Spirit), who goes out into all the world. Discuss 1. Spend some time trying to envision the scene Ezekiel saw. If you wish, try to draw the scene. Describe the four living creatures. Also see Revelation 4:6, where John sees beings with similar characteristics. Can you guess what these creatures symbolize?

Describe the four wheels. Also see Revelation 4:8. While Revelation has no parallel with Ezekiel chapter 1, the creatures themselves are completely covered with eyes, just like the rims on the wheels. Can you guess what the wheels symbolize?

Describe the vision of the glory of the Lord, which Ezekiel saw. Find similarities between this section and Revelation 4:2-6.

Apply 2. How does this vision strengthen us for work in God’s kingdom?

The Lord gave Ezekiel confidence by showing that his glory was there also in Babylon.

Ezekiel 2 Ezekiel is called to preach to a rebellious people (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 17-21) Look Verse 1 “Son of man”—Ezekiel is referred to as “son of man” about 90 times in the book. Ezekiel is a frail human being, yet the Lord has called him to speak to other weak members of the human race and call them to repentance. Verse 10 “On both sides”—There was no room for more writing on the scroll. Therefore, the scroll contained the complete message Ezekiel was to preach. Note the similarity of this scroll with the one Jesus opened in Revelation 5:1. Discuss 1. When Ezekiel saw the glory of the Lord, he fell down to honor the Lord and also because the sight was terrifying to him, a sinner. How did the Lord enable Ezekiel to stand up in his presence? Can you find a parallel to your life as a Christian?

2. What response was Ezekiel to expect in the course of his ministry? Why did the Lord send him to the house of Israel if he knew they would reject his message?

3. What pictures does the Lord use to describe the people of Israel, Ezekiel’s audience?

4. What would Ezekiel be tempted to do in the face of their opposition? (verses 6-8)

5. How did the Lord prepare Ezekiel to move forward in his ministry? (verse 9)

Apply 6. How might we experience what Ezekiel experienced when we bring God’s Word to a family member or relative who has strayed?

7. Why is it important that we not give up when a family member rejects the Word of God we bring to them?

God commissioned Ezekiel to speak. He equipped him with the Spirit and the Word.

Ezekiel 3:1-21 By the Spirit, Ezekiel is given the words the Lord wants him to speak (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 21-25) Discuss 1. The scroll Ezekiel was given was filled with words of lament and mourning and woe. Why did it taste sweet when Ezekiel ate it? (verses 1-3)

2. Note how God prepared Ezekiel to speak to his fellow countrymen. What does verse 8 tell us that God would do for him?

3. In verses 12-15, the work of the “son of man,” Ezekiel, is combined with the vision of God’s glory that Ezekiel had seen in chapter 1. How can something so glorious be combined with the work of a sinner?

4. Ezekiel is described as eating God’s Word, which tasted as sweet as honey. Why, then, does he begin his ministry “in bitterness and in the anger of my spirit” (verse 14)?

5. In verses 16-21, the Lord makes a simple point to Ezekiel and to us also. What is that point?

Apply 6. A pastor was overheard saying that the worst part of his ministry is calling on delinquents. Why might a pastor say something like that?

7. Agree or disagree. In order to keep peace in the family, discussion of sinful behavior should be avoided.

The Lord sent Ezekiel to proclaim his Word, which most of the people would reject. Yet some would believe. The ministry of the Word is necessary, although often bitter.

Ezekiel 3:22–4:17 Ezekiel is directed to use “action-parables” (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 25-33) Look 3:22,23 “The glory of the LORD”—The glory of the Lord is with Ezekiel, making him a firm and unyielding witness to the people of Israel. 4:3 “Iron pan”—This probably illustrated the wall of Israel’s sin that separated it from the Lord. 4:5,6 “390 days . . . 40 days”—God’s anger over the Northern and Southern Kingdoms would last for a long time. Israel had already been taken into captivity earlier, so their suffering was long. These are symbolic numbers. 4:10 “Twenty shekels of food”—This was starvation rations, symbolizing Israel’s food supply during the siege and during the exile. 4:15 “Cow manure instead of human excrement”—The idea of cooking one’s meal over human excrement was repulsive to Jews. Yet they were forced to eat such unclean food in the countries to which they were driven. (See Daniel 1.) Discuss 1. The first action parable is found in 3:24-27. Ezekiel was bound, evidently to keep him from prophesying among the people. At the same time, God would keep him from speaking to them. Yet God would open Ezekiel’s mouth, and he would be able to speak. What lesson was God teaching the people through this message?

2. God told Ezekiel to take a clay tablet, draw the city of Jerusalem on it, and lay siege to it. What was God’s lesson for the people? (Note: Here is where the chronology becomes important. In the first lesson we learned that in 597 B.C., Babylon attacked Jerusalem and took Jehoiachin captive and put his uncle Zedekiah in control of Jerusalem and Judah (2 Kings 24:6-13). This is when Ezekiel was taken into captivity. When Zedekiah rebelled in 586 B.C., Babylon completely destroyed Jerusalem and took the rest of the people into captivity. The date of this prophecy is sometime after “the fifth year of . . . Jehoiachin” (1:2), which would be 592 B.C. This is the period of time when many Jews, along with Ezekiel, were over in Babylon, but many other Jews were still living in Israel and the city of Jerusalem had not yet fallen. Hope for a quick return from captivity prevailed.)

Apply 3. What message does Ezekiel bring to those today who reject God’s Word?

Those who resist God’s Word will be punished in time.

Ezekiel 5 The parable about the siege of Jerusalem continues (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 33-38) Look The parable in chapter 4 continues in chapter 5. The Lord sent the message of this chapter to Ezekiel sometime during the 430 days he was lying on the ground. Verse 12 “A third I will scatter to the winds.” This does not refer to the exiles, who came safely into Babylon. This refers to those who fled the country to find asylum wherever they could. Discuss 1. What was Ezekiel directed to do with his hair and beard? (verses 1,2)

2. What was Ezekiel directed to do with each portion?

3. The symbolism of the thirds is clear. But can you figure out what Ezekiel was symbolizing with the small amount of hair he was to tuck into his garment?

4. God set Jerusalem in the center of the nations (verse 5). What did he want Jerusalem to be? What did it become? (verses 5-7)

5. What is the main reason for all the horror Jerusalem would experience? (verses 8-12,14-17)

6. Not only did the Lord want to pour out his wrath on Judah, but he also wanted to teach it a lesson. What was that lesson? (verse 13)

Apply 7. Someday unbelievers will experience the same suffering Ezekiel’s people experienced. In that day, what will all people finally realize to be true? What can you do in light of that day?

The Lord brings destruction and devastation on nations and people who rebel against him.

Ezekiel 6–7 The Lord punishes the rebellious and disciplines believers (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 38-45) Discuss 1. We have seen that Israel’s greatest sin was rebelling against God and worshiping idols. What would the Lord do with the bodies of the Israelites? What would he do with the idols? What would that prove about the idols? about the Lord? (6:4-7,13,14)

2. What is the main message of 7:1-9?

3. The Israelites had been living it up. They depended on various things to give them comfort and security. What would happen to each of the following things? • buying and selling (7:13)

• military might (7:14)

• wealth (7:19)

• jewelry (7:20-22)

4. What would happen to the Jews if they tried to flee the Babylonians? if they stayed in Jerusalem? (7:15-18)

5. In 7:23-27 the Lord speaks about more “ends” that would come on his people. Can you find them?

6. When the end comes, what will Israel’s people finally know?

Apply 7. The Lord is patient. He does not want anyone to perish. But what happens when his patience is over? When will this happen to the world? Might this happen to someone before the Lord comes again?

God destroys all who oppose him. When his wrath begins, his blessings come to an end.

Ezekiel 8 The Lord reveals the extent of Judah’s idolatry (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 45-51) Look Verse 1 “Sixth year”—It was one year and two months after Ezekiel had been told to lay siege to Jerusalem—just enough time to complete the 430 days. Chapters 4–7 are all part of the siege and destruction prophesied by Ezekiel’s parable. Verse 2 “A figure like that of a man”—This is the glory of the Lord, who appeared to Ezekiel and gave him his commission. Verse 3 “Visions of God”—This was not like the action parables, which were actually carried out by Ezekiel in his own life. In this chapter, however, Ezekiel receives the vision. In a vision, he is transported to Jerusalem. Verse 6 “That will drive me far from my sanctuary”—This is an important statement. In this and the following chapters, we see the Lord doing just this: departing from the temple. Once his glory is gone, there is no reason for Jerusalem to exist. Verse 14 “Tammuz”—Tammuz was the Mesopotamian fertility god worshiped by the women of Judah. Verse 17 “Putting the branch to their nose”—Apparently a gesture similar to that of “thumbing one’s nose.” In this case they were thumbing their noses at God! Discuss 1. The Lord showed Ezekiel one example of the Jews’ sin after another. What did Ezekiel see at the north gate? (verse 5)

through a hidden doorway at the entrance to the court? (verses 7-11)

at the entrance to the north gate of the house of the Lord? (verse 14)

in the inner court of God’s house? (verse 16)

Apply 2. What excuse did the elders of Israel give for carrying out their idolatry in the temple? (verse 12) Do you ever experience this temptation when things are going badly?

3. How can we avoid the pitfall of driving the Lord away from us?

The Lord revealed to Ezekiel Israel’s terrible idolatry. The Lord knows the idolatrous hearts of men, and he will punish. He wants us to live in daily repentance.

Ezekiel 9 Idolaters are slaughtered; believers are spared (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 51-53) Discuss 1. Why do you think the Lord had the men in the vision come from the north?

2. In addition to the guards, Ezekiel also sees a scribe with a writing kit. What is the scribe told to do? (verses 3,4)

3. The Lord gave these instructions to the men with the swords: “Slaughter old men, young men and maidens, women and children, but do not touch anyone who has the mark. Begin at my sanctuary” (verse 6). Why do you think they were to begin at the sanctuary? (verses 3-7)

4. What is Ezekiel’s reaction as he watches the guards do their bloody work? What is God’s response to Ezekiel? (verses 8-10)

5. What is the clear meaning of these verses?

6. How would the ones upon whom the scribe placed the mark be delivered?

Apply 7. What comfort does verse 11 give you?

8. What significance do you see in the movement of “the glory of the LORD” from “above the cherubim” to “the threshold of the temple” (verse 3)?

The Lord destroys those who abandon him and his Word, but he preserves his believers.

Ezekiel 10 The glory of the Lord departs from the temple (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 54-56) Look Verse 4 “From above the cherubim”—In chapter 9 we heard that the glory of the Lord rose from above the cherubim and went to the threshold of the temple. It may have returned to this position and is now departing from there once more. The cherubim in this verse are the gold cherubim above the ark of the covenant. The cherubim in verse 3 are the four living creatures. Verse 14 “One face was that of a cherub.” Note the slight change in the appearance of the four living creatures from 1:10. We are not told why this difference exists, yet in verse 22 Ezekiel says that their appearance was the same as he had seen earlier. This teaches us not to press the details of visions or symbolism too far. Verse 18 “Departed from over the threshold”—God’s glory had moved from the Most Holy Place to above the threshold of the temple. Then it moved to a position above the four living creatures. Then the creatures moved to the entrance of the east gate. Slowly but surely the Lord leaves Jerusalem. Discuss 1. The man clothed in linen was commanded to fill his hands with burning coals that he would receive from the cherubim (the powerful angels who are identified as the same living creatures Ezekiel saw earlier in chapter 1). What is the man supposed to do with the coals of fire? Can you guess what that symbolizes?

2. When Moses set up the tabernacle in the wilderness and, again, when Solomon dedicated the temple in Jerusalem, the glory of the Lord filled his house. He came to reside among his people in the Most Holy Place where the ark of the covenant was stored. What is happening in this chapter?

3. Israel had experienced difficult times before this, but God’s glory had never left the temple. He had always remained among his people. What would the departure of God’s glory mean for Jerusalem’s future?

Apply 4. When did God’s glory return? Where do we see God’s glory? (See 2 Corinthians 3:17,18.)

God’s glory began to depart from Jerusalem. It would soon experience the fire of his judgment.

Ezekiel 11 The Lord judges the false leaders but brings back a remnant (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 56-61) Look Verse 3 “This city is a cooking pot, and we are the meat.” As an iron cooking pot protects the meat in it, so also the false leaders thought Jerusalem would protect the people within it. Discuss 1. What wicked advice were the 25 men of Jerusalem giving the people? (verse 3)

2. The wicked leaders of Jerusalem had killed many people. They had either put them to death for their righteousness, or they would indirectly kill them through God’s judgment brought on the city by the Babylonians. Jerusalem would keep the dead safe from Babylon, but not the leaders. In verses 9-12, the Lord describes what would happen to the leaders who thought Jerusalem would protect them. (Read Jeremiah 52:24-27.) How would God’s prophecy against the leaders come true?

3. What truth would the leaders, and everyone else in Jerusalem, learn from the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy? (verse 12)

4. When the Lord put Pelatiah to death, it seemed to Ezekiel that God was going to kill the remnant of the house of Israel. Apparently that’s what the people of Jerusalem thought—that they were the remnant and the people in captivity had been cast off. How did the Lord answer Ezekiel in verses 13- 15? What did the Lord promise in verses 16-21?

5. The Lord had been progressively getting farther and farther from the Most Holy Place. What did he do after he pronounced his final judgment on Jerusalem?

6. What impact do you think the message had on the exiles in Babylon?

Apply 7. In what way are we part of the fulfillment of God’s prophecy in verse 19?

God’s glory continued to move farther from the temple. It finally left Jerusalem. God’s judgment against the city would soon come to pass. But he would restore a remnant.

Ezekiel 12 Ezekiel performs another action parable, illustrating Israel’s exile (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 61-67) Discuss 1. Describe the next action parable the Lord tells Ezekiel to perform. (verses 3-11) What was the meaning of this parable?

2. The parable had direct application to the “prince,” that is, to King Zedekiah. (The real king, Jehoachin, was already in exile.) Read the prophecy in verses 12-15, and then read Jeremiah 52:4-11. How was the prophecy fulfilled for the “prince”?

3. Why did the Lord spare a few Israelites who would flee for refuge to the nations? (verse 16)

4. Ezekiel was told to mimic the way the people of Jerusalem would be eating their food and drinking their drink (verses 17-19). What did that mean?

5. What saying had become common in Jerusalem? How would the Lord soon prove it wrong? What answer did the Lord have for those who claimed Ezekiel’s vision pertained to the distant future? (verses 21-28)

6. In all of the events that take place, how are verses 16b and 20b fulfilled?

Apply 7. What lesson is there in this section for those who say the Lord will never come in judgment? (Also see 2 Peter 3:3,4.)

God would soon come and take the people of Judah into captivity.

Ezekiel 13 False prophets are condemned (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 67-73) Look Verse 9 “Or be listed in the records of the house of Israel”—God was going to remove the false prophets from being counted among the Israelites; he would cut them off from his people and not give them the blessings of the Messiah. Verse 11 “Cover it with whitewash”—The prophets were building a flimsy wall by saying that Jerusalem’s walls were solid and strong when they weren’t. Then they whitewashed their lies and made them look beautiful. This was their sin, and for this the Lord would punish them. Verse 18 “The women who sew magic charms . . . and make veils of various lengths for their heads in order to ensnare people”—These women were dabbling in the occult. They pretended to foretell the future and made their living by seducing the people who came to them. Discuss 1. What alone would enable the city of Jerusalem to stand firm on the day of battle? What does this tell us about the importance of preaching and teaching the truth? (verses 1-7, especially verse 5)

2. In verses 13-16, the Lord tells how he would destroy the prophets’ whitewashed wall. How would he do that?

3. How did the women dishearten God’s people? (verses 20-23, especially verse 22)

Apply 4. There are many false teachers today who do the same things as the false prophets (making whitewashed walls) and the women (calling the righteous evil and the evil righteous). Give some examples.

God would expose the false prophets (men and women) who deluded the people of Judah.

Ezekiel 14–15 Idolaters are condemned (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 73-77) Discuss 1. Picture the scene. The elders of Israel wanted information about Jerusalem and about their own fate in Babylon. They came to Ezekiel hoping to hear positive news. Their hearts were filled with idolatry. What does the Lord mean when he says that he would answer the person according to his great idolatry? (14:1-6)

2. In verse 9 the Lord tells how he would punish the hypocritical Israelite who went to a prophet for advice and direction. How would he do that? How would he accomplish his purpose of speaking to that person according to his “great idolatry?” (14:7-11)

3. Why did the people of Jerusalem think the Lord would not destroy their city? What was the Lord’s answer? (14:12-21)

4. The destruction of Jerusalem would be a terrible thing, and Ezekiel shuddered when he thought about it. Yet he would be “consoled” (14:22). What would console him when he considered what God had done to the city? (14:22,23)

5. What is the value of a vine without fruit? Why is a fruitless vine an appropriate picture of Jerusalem? (chapter 15)

Apply 6. Comment: When rebuked by the pastor for not attending worship, Jenny replied, “My parents were Lutheran. I was born Lutheran. I was baptized Lutheran. I was married in the Lutheran church. I consider myself Lutheran.”

The Lord condemned Israel’s hypocrites. He punished them by giving them false prophecies about Jerusalem’s state of security. But Jerusalem was like a vine without fruit.

Ezekiel 16:1-34 Unfaithful Jerusalem is worse than a prostitute (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 78-83) Look Verse 8 “I spread the corner of my garment over you.” By spreading his garment over the Israelites, the Lord indicated his intention to marry this nation. He entered into a covenant with them on Mount Sinai. He promised to be their God; they promised to be his people and obey his commands. Discuss 1. The Lord uses a wonderful and vivid picture of a squalid baby and what the Lord did for that baby. What was Israel’s condition at birth? (verses 1-7)

2. What did the Lord do when the nation of Israel had become a large people? (verses 8-14)

3. What did the Israelites do in response to all the good things God did for them? (verses 15-22)

4. Israel, God’s beautiful “wife,” had made itself a prostitute (verses 23-34). • With whom did it commit prostitution?

• What did even its “lovers” feel about what it had done?

• In what one way was Israel unlike other prostitutes regarding payment?

Apply 5. Consider how God described the blessings he gave to the people of Israel. They were “his” blessings, given to Israel to show his glory. They were “his” children, created by him to carry on the next generation of God-fearing people. Apply this to the blessings God has given you.

The Lord raised up Israel by his grace, made it a great nation, and entered into a covenant relationship with it to be his very own.

Ezekiel 16:35-63 The Lord’s judgment on the prostitute (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 84-89) Discuss 1. What would the Lord do to his people, according to verses 35-43? Why do you think Ezekiel was giving the lesson of chapter 16 to his listeners?

2. Sort out the “relationships” in verses 44-52. • The Hittites and the Amorites

• Samaria and Sodom

3. There was only one real difference between Israel and its parents and sisters. What was that?

4. Verses 56-58 are more words of condemnation for rebellious Jerusalem. But verses 53-63 are words of gospel comfort, looking ahead to the days of the Messiah. • What would happen to Sodom and Samaria in the days ahead? (verses 53-55)

• What covenant would God remember? (verse 60)

• What would happen to the hearts of God’s people and the Gentiles who believe? (verses 61-63)

5. What is the covenant God would not use in those days? (verse 61) What covenant would he use? (verse 62)

Apply 6. Where do you fit into this chapter of Ezekiel?

Israel was more wicked than its parents and sisters. Yet in the future, God would restore his people and bring Gentiles into the fold of his church. He would do this through his Savior.

Ezekiel 17 The allegory of two eagles and a vine (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 89-95) Look The people in captivity continued to believe that Jerusalem would not fall. They continued to hope for the overthrow of Babylon and to be given the right to go back to Jerusalem. At the heart of this was a battle between the Lord and the idolatry in the hearts of the exiles who stubbornly refused to submit to God’s will. Discuss 1. Begin your study of this chapter by understanding the history. Work through verses 11-21. • What had already happened in Jerusalem by the time Ezekiel spoke these words? (verses 11-15)

• What would happen to Zedekiah’s proposed alliance with Egypt? (verse 15)

• What would the king of Babylon do to Zedekiah? (verses 16-21)

2. Now interpret the allegory that the Lord gave Ezekiel. (verses 3-10) • Who was the great eagle of verse 3? Who was the top of the cedar?

• Who was the low spreading vine that grew from the seed Nebuchadnezzar sprinkled in the land and that turned toward Nebuchadnezzar as it grew?

• Who was the second great eagle toward which the vine began to look?

• What point do you think Ezekiel was making in verse 8?

• Verses 9 and 10 state the conclusion of the allegory. What would happen to the low spreading vine?

Apply 3. Verses 22-24 are some of the most beautiful verses in Ezekiel. Who is the shoot from the top of a cedar? How does this section apply to you?

The Jews in Jerusalem continued to resist God’s will and would suffer for it.

Ezekiel 18 “The soul who sins is the one who will die.” (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 96-102) Look Verse 2 “The fathers eat sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge.” This proverb means that children are punished for the sins of their fathers. Those in exile blamed their fathers and ancestors for the trouble they now faced. Verse 19 “Why does the son not share the guilt of his father?” In Exodus 20:5 the Lord speaks of “punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.” The Israelites asked Ezekiel why the Lord was not carrying this out. This was their claim: “God is unfair for punishing us for our fathers’ sins. Our claim is not based on our opinion but on what God himself said he would do.” Yet they misunderstood the passage. The children that God spoke about continued to do the sins of the fathers. Discuss 1. The main point of this chapter is stated in verse 4. What was the complaint of the people in exile? What was God’s answer to them?

2. Verses 5-20 are quite simple. Work through these verses. What is the Lord’s main point?

3. Verses 21-24 extend Ezekiel’s point. Now it really applies to his readers. Explain how.

4. Verses 25-32 express the solution to the Israelites’ problems. What was that solution?

Apply 5. Which do you consider to be the greatest truth for yourself in this chapter?

Ezekiel corrected the Jews’ mistaken ideas about how God was dealing with them.

Ezekiel 19 A lament for Israel’s princes (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 102-107) Look Verses 1,14 “A lament”—A lament is a funeral dirge. Before the event takes place, Ezekiel writes a funeral hymn for fallen Judah and Jerusalem. Verse 2 “What a lioness was your mother among the lions!” Many years before, when Jacob blessed his son Judah, he called him “a lion’s cub” (Genesis 49:9). Jesus is also referred to as “the Lion of the tribe of Judah” (Revelation 5:5). So referring to the people of Judah as lions is nothing new. Verse 3 “And he became a strong lion.” From the description that follows, this is King Jehoahaz, who was carried off into captivity in Egypt. Verse 5 “She took another of her cubs and made him a strong lion.” This is a reference to Jehoiachin, who, as the following verses reveal, was taken into captivity to Babylon. Discuss 1. See 2 Kings 23:31-34. How was the reference to the first lion cub fulfilled in King Jehoahaz?

2. See 2 Kings 24:8-13. Similarly, how was the reference to the second lion cub fulfilled in King Jehoiachin?

3. The picture of the vine illustrates the same thing as the pictures of the lions. What does it refer to?

Apply 4. What does this chapter teach us about the Lord’s desire to bless? to judge wickedness?

The Lord gave Ezekiel a lament to sing at Jerusalem’s funeral. The people in Babylon would hear it, and they would know that the funeral was not far off.

Ezekiel 20 God judges a rebellious people but does not forget his mercy (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 107-117) Look Verse 1 “Seventh year . . . fifth month”—We are now in 591 B.C., two years after the first vision and four years before the fall of Jerusalem. Verse 11 “The man who obeys them will live by them.” This is not teaching work righteousness. It is saying that God put the Israelites under his law. Those who kept that law out of faith in God’s grace and in anticipation of the coming Savior would enjoy God’s blessings. Such people were saved by God’s grace and forgiveness, but under the old covenant, they were required to do certain things in order to experience God’s blessings. Kings such as David experienced these blessings. Verse 46 “The south”—A reference to Judah and Jerusalem. Discuss 1. The Jewish elders came to Ezekiel for a message from the Lord. As the saying goes, hope springs eternal. Perhaps the Lord would have a better answer for them than he did before. What answer did the Lord give them? (Skim the entire answer, verses 4-29.)

2. The Lord loved his people. Yet they continued to rebel against him. Nevertheless, he did not destroy them for another reason. This reason is found in verse 14. Explain.

3. The Lord refused to allow the idolatrous Israelites to come to him for answers to their questions (verses 30,31). Even after everything that had happened to them, what did they still desire? How would God keep that from happening? (verses 32-36)

4. What shift in subject matter do you see beginning in verse 37?

Apply 5. Verse 44 is one of the most beautiful in the book. What does the Lord mean when he says he deals with us for his name’s sake?

The Lord would judge Judah for its wickedness, yet in the future he would give them new hearts.

Ezekiel 21 Through Babylon, God brings the sword of judgment against Jerusalem (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 117-123) Look Verse 21 “He will examine the liver.” In his idolatry, the king of Babylon would seek an omen. In ancient times, idol priests would kill an animal and read the liver to determine the future, like a present-day fortune teller reads tea leaves. The Lord would guide even the outcome of this superstition to bring about the destruction of Jerusalem. Verse 28 “The Ammonites and their insults”—The Ammonite nation was across the Jordan River, to the east of Jerusalem. The Ammonites continually insulted the Lord and his people, and for this they too would be punished. Discuss 1. In previous chapters we heard God make a clean distinction between the righteous and the wicked. The wicked would die, but the righteous would live. Now he says that both the righteous and the wicked will die. Can you explain this? (verses 1-5)

2. What is the next action parable Ezekiel must act out before the people? (verses 6,7)

3. Read verses 8-17. Most of us have seen a movie or television program in which a warrior has brandished a sword. The Israelites should imagine the greatest warrior of all, the Lord himself, brandishing the sword for their destruction. With what does Ezekiel contrast the powerful sword of the Babylonian army? (verses 10,13)

4. Verses 18-20 contain another action parable. What is the meaning of the parable? (verses 18-25)

Apply 5. Throughout Ezekiel we hear words of promise and grace, which we today enjoy. Can you find the short messianic prophecy that lies tucked in this chapter?

The sword would devour Jerusalem. Soon the king of Babylon would attack Jerusalem.

Ezekiel 22 Jerusalem was filled with wickedness; God would destroy it (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 123-129) Discuss 1. What was the cause of Jerusalem’s downfall? What would the Lord do to it? (verses 1-5)

2. Verses 6-12 contain a catalogue of sins. This is a scathing rebuke of Jerusalem’s state of immorality. Pick out some that don’t surprise you. Pick out one that does surprise you or that you did not realize the Israelites were doing.

3. When people strike their hands together in anger, the object of their anger might become afraid, but that person might also regain courage. But if the Lord strikes his hands in anger, what would any thinking person do? (verses 13-16)

4. A refiner melts down gold and silver to purify it. After the metal is melted, he is able to skim off the dross. Yet the Lord has a problem with Israel. Explain. (verses 17-22)

5. The princes, the prophets, and the priests were all engaged in a conspiracy. What role did each of them play? (verses 23-29)

6. What would have saved the people from God’s anger? (verses 30,31)

Apply 7. How are the walls of Jerusalem built today? How can you stand in the gap and help keep the enemy from attacking God’s church?

Israel was very wicked. All its leaders conspired to do wicked deeds. No one was found who could correct the problem. God would soon pour out his anger on Jerusalem.

Ezekiel 23 Israel is two adulterous sisters (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 129-138) Look Verse 4 “Oholah . . . Oholibah”—Oholah refers to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Its name means “her own tent” and probably refers to the Northern Kingdom going its own way after the time of Solomon. Oholibah refers to the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Its name means “my tent is in her” and refers to God’s continued presence in the sanctuary in Jerusalem. Verse 5 “Engaged in prostitution”—The Lord pictures himself as the mother of his people, who gave birth to them. But he also pictures himself as his people’s husband. This picture is more prominent in the prophetical books because Israel’s main sin was forsaking its loving husband, the Lord, and striking alliances with other world powers when it needed help, and in the process worshiping their gods. This was spiritual prostitution, the subject of this chapter. Verse 10 “They stripped her naked.” That is, the Assyrians took away all the blessings God had given Israel and left it weak and vulnerable. God often speaks of himself doing that, showing his people that without him and his many blessings, they are nothing. All the Israelites could do is feel shame when others looked at them. Discuss 1. When did the spiritual prostitution of God’s people begin?

2. With whom did the Northern Kingdom of Israel commit adultery? (verses 5-10)

3. With whom did the Southern Kingdom of Judah commit adultery? (verses 11-27)

4. How would Judah drink its sister’s cup (verse 32)? (verses 28-35)

5. Verses 36-44 continue with the description of the spiritual prostitution of the Lord’s wife. In the end, however, she would be punished (verses 45-49). Once this happened, what would God’s people finally have to acknowledge?

Apply 6. What warnings can we derive from the history of Israel and Jerusalem?

The Lord promised to judge his wicked wife for acting like a prostitute.

Ezekiel 24 Two signs of the coming destruction of Jerusalem (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 138-144) Look Verse 1 “Ninth year . . . tenth month . . . tenth day”—It is four and a half years after Ezekiel’s first prophecy. The siege of Jerusalem would last a year and a half. Verse 21 “Stronghold . . . delight”—The temple in Jerusalem had been the delight of the Jews. No other nation had a temple like it. The Jewish people thought the temple in their midst would protect them from ultimate harm. Verse 27 “No longer be silent”—Up to this time, during the years Ezekiel was prophesying, he had been only able to speak when the Lord gave him a message. When his prophecies were fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem, that restriction was lifted. Discuss 1. Ezekiel announced to the exiles that the king of Babylon had laid siege to Jerusalem that very day. What are the elements and their meanings of the parable Ezekiel was to tell them? (verses 1-14) • the cooking pot • pieces of meat • the wood beneath it • the encrustation on the pot • emptying the pot piece by piece • I will pile the wood high • the pot becomes hot and the copper glows

2. The Lord gives Ezekiel one more action parable. If anyone thinks being a prophet is easy, this parable should dispel that idea. Ezekiel’s wife would die. How should he react to her death? How should the Jews react to the fall of Jerusalem? Why? (verses 15-24)

Apply 3. Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-13. Are the warnings we read in Ezekiel applicable to us?

4. Why will God have to destroy (melt down) the world on the Last Day?

Ezekiel could not mourn his wife’s death, just like Israel would not be able to mourn the destruction of Jerusalem. But it would be destroyed. The siege had been set.

Ezekiel 25 Four prophecies against Israel’s enemies (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 145-152) Look Chapters 25 to 32 form a bridge between the first and last parts of Ezekiel. In these chapters the Lord reminds the people through Ezekiel that he is the God of all nations, in control of the affairs of this world and that he causes all that happens to serve all people, not just the people of Israel. The Moabites and Ammonites were both descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:36-38). The Moabites hired Balaam to curse Israel on its journey to Canaan (Numbers 22,23). They frequently fought alongside other nations against Israel during the time of the judges and cooperated with Babylon in its conquest of Judah (2 Kings 24). The Edomites were descendants of Esau (Genesis 36:9). They lived in the arid region south of the Dead Sea. The Philistines, located along the coastline of Palestine, were almost constantly at war with Israel. Discuss 1. What is the basic reason God intended to unleash his anger against these nations?

2. List how each nation had opposed and troubled Israel.

3. A major theme recurs in each of the four sections of this chapter: When God acted on behalf of his people and punished the nations for their sin, everyone would know that the God of Israel is the true God. What would the Lord do to each of the nations around Israel, which would prove that he is God?

Apply 4. The theme of the book (“They will know that I am the LORD”) occurs many times in this section. When will all nations once and for all know that the Lord our God is the only true God in heaven and on earth?

The Lord promised to punish those nations that oppressed his people. Someday all who oppress God’s church today will suffer a similar fate, and all will acknowledge that the Christians’ God is the true God.

Ezekiel 26 The prophecy against Tyre (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 152-155) Look Tyre and Sidon were sister cities of Phoenicia, situated along the Mediterranean coastline to the north of Palestine. They were known throughout the ancient world chiefly for their maritime activities, with ships traveling throughout the world of that time engaged in trading. In the same year that Jerusalem was besieged and conquered by Nebuchadnezzar, they rejoiced over the fact that their neighbor to the south was in ruins. Verse 4 “I will . . . make her a bare rock.” Tyre was built on a rocky promontory of the coast. This explains some of the imagery the Lord uses to describe its defeat. The city was virtually impossible to get at. Nebuchadnezzar besieged the city for 13 years. It is a historical fact that he never completely destroyed Tyre itself, even though he captured all the cities on the mainland that belonged to Tyre. Only in later years did the Lord finally once and for all destroy Tyre. Here the Lord is probably telescoping history and describing the string of attacks on Tyre that finally led to its downfall as if they were all accomplished by Nebuchadnezzar. Discuss 1. Why did the Lord pronounce judgment on the city of Tyre?

2. Why is Nebuchadnezzar called king of kings? Isn’t this a title reserved for Jesus?

3. When the people of the nations around Tyre heard of its downfall, what did they do?

4. The last section of this chapter (verses 19-21) ends on a note of finality. Look for statements that express this.

5. If there is time, read Revelation chapters 17 and 18. This section speaks of the destruction of the antichrist, the great prostitute of Babylon. This section is remarkably similar to Ezekiel chapters 26 to 28. Note the similarities: Why were Tyre and Babylon destroyed? Whom did the Lord use to destroy Tyre? Whom did the Lord use to destroy Babylon?

Apply 6. Who is still the Lord of the nations?

Ezekiel prophesied the fall of Tyre, which served as a type of the New Testament antichrist.

Ezekiel 27 The lament for Tyre (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 155-161) Look Ezekiel’s prophecy of Tyre’s destruction is followed by the Lord’s instruction to raise a lament over that city. First, the people eulogized Tyre’s many trading partners. Some of these partners are well known while some are of uncertain location. Verse 36 “You have come to a horrible end.” Many nations will weep and lament as this wealthy trading partner is forced to cease its activities. Discuss 1. What was Tyre’s basic sin?

2. Thirty-three nations or peoples are listed among Tyre’s trading partners. Can you name them? (verses 4-23)

3. When the nations saw God’s judgment on Tyre, they should have repented. What did they do instead? (verses 31-34)

4. Look again at Revelation chapter 18. What similarities do you see between the description of Tyre’s fall and the fall of the prostitute of Babylon, the antichrist?

Apply 5. Roehrs-Franzmann in the Concordia Study Bible comments, “Their amassed riches did not put them beyond God’s control” (p. 554). Is that true for our nation? What current events might indicate that our nation is forgetting this truth?

6. For what purpose does God control the destiny of nations today? See Ephesians 1:20-23.

The kings and merchants of the world mourned over Tyre’s fall. We see again that God is in control of the nations.

Ezekiel 28 A prophecy against the king of Tyre; a prophecy against Sidon (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 162-167) Look In chapter 27, the merchants lamented Tyre’s fall. In this chapter the Lord gives the reason for its fall. The three chapters 26 to 28 form the basis for chapter 18 of the book of Revelation. Chapters 17 and 18 of Revelation speak of the destruction of the antichrist and how the merchants and kings of the world would lament her downfall. In many ways Tyre was like the antichrist, as we will see again in this chapter. Verse 14 “As a guardian cherub . . . you walked among the fiery stones.” These phrases have been interpreted in various ways. But the basic meaning is clear. God had established the king of Tyre as a powerful and benevolent ruler over a vast and secure empire. In describing the king’s position, Ezekiel’s mind ranges from the beauty of Eden to the lofty security of Mount Zion, where the high priest wore the 12 stones that represented the tribes of Israel on his breastplate. The king of Tyre was a guardian angel until he became proud and the Lord deposed him from his lofty position. Discuss 1. What was Tyre’s basic problem, the problem for which God would judge the city?

2. What did the Lord promise to do to Tyre? (verses 6-10)

3. What was the king of Tyre’s sin that led to his downfall?

4. Locate Sidon on your map and its relation to Tyre. What were the people of Sidon doing to God’s people that warranted their punishment?

Apply 5. The United States has been caught up in a patriotic frenzy ever since the terrorist attacks of 2001. What is God-pleasing patriotism as opposed to pride? When do the citizens of a nation cross from one to the other?

The Lord said he would punish Tyre and its king and the nation of Sidon for their pride.

Ezekiel 29 The prophecy against Egypt, oracles 1 and 2 (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 168-173) Look Beginning in this chapter, the Lord presents seven oracles against Egypt. Chapter 29 contains two of them. The first (verses 1-16) speaks against Egypt’s pride, much as the last chapter had spoken about Tyre’s pride. The second oracle (verses 17-21) tells how God would give Nebuchadnezzar Egypt as plunder for his soldiers. This second oracle was spoken 17 years after the first, 15 years after the fall of Jerusalem. Verse 9 “Egypt will become a desolate wasteland.” Egypt was never completely depopulated as Judah was. It was defeated, and many of its people fled the land. Ezekiel seems to be describing Egypt’s downfall in terms of what Judah experienced when it fell. Verse 14 “I will bring them back from captivity.” The Egyptians’ destruction would not be permanent. Yet when God restored them as a nation, they would be a “lowly kingdom.” For centuries Egypt had been a major world power. But since Babylonian times, it has never regained its former glory. Verse 18 “Yet he and his army got no reward from the campaign he led against Tyre.” The days of Babylonian aggression were turbulent for the world. The king of Babylon overtook Judah. But he was also annexing other nations to his empire. He had also laid siege to Tyre. The 13-year siege was part of God’s complete destruction of Tyre prophesied in chapters 26 to 28. God would complete his destruction of Tyre in the coming centuries. Because God was using Nebuchadnezzar (“because he and his army did it for me,” verse 20), God rewarded him by giving him the wealth of Egypt. Discuss 1. What was Pharaoh’s main sin, the one for which God would judge Egypt?

2. What picture does God use to portray his judgment on Pharaoh?

3. Review the notes above. What would happen to Egypt at this time? (verses 6-21)

Apply 4. If this section of Scripture teaches us one thing, it is that pride goes before a fall. As a citizen of the your country, how should you pray for your country’s future?

God would destroy Egypt, giving it to Nebuchadnezzar as payment for his work against Tyre.

Ezekiel 30 The prophecy against Egypt, oracles 3 and 4 (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 173-178) Look The third oracle (verses 1-19) speaks about God’s punishment on Egypt. In particular, it speaks about how Egypt’s neighbors and allies would suffer on “the day of the LORD” when he would come against Egypt. The fourth oracle (verses 20-26) was spoken shortly before the fall of Jerusalem, foretelling Egypt’s doom at the hands of the Babylonians. Verse 20 “In the eleventh year”—Fourteen times in Ezekiel we are given a year reference. The years begin with the second deportation of the Jews into Babylon in 597 B.C. (The first deportation occurred in 605 B.C. when Daniel and his friends were taken to Babylon. So they had been there about eight years before Ezekiel arrived.) The final destruction of Jerusalem and the temple took place in 586 B.C., or the 11th year after Ezekiel’s deportation. As you can see, the prophecies are not recorded in chronological order but as they are needed to present the lessons God wants to teach us. “The word of the LORD came to me.” The book of Ezekiel was obviously assembled after Ezekiel received all these revelations from the Lord. As we read the seven oracles against Egypt, we find repetition of themes. But we must remember that these short oracles were given over a relatively long period of time and assembled into this group of seven. Discuss 1. The third oracle (verses 1-19) contains further descriptions of the destruction of Egypt. Spend a little time with a map, and locate some of the places described.

2. What picture does the Lord use to describe what he would do to Egypt? (verses 20-26)

Apply 3. Throughout the book, the phrase “Then they will know that I am the LORD” is repeated over and over again. The Christian church has been given a message to tell all people—God’s Son came once to save the world and will come again to judge the world. The world scoffs at this prophecy. Picture the Last Day when Jesus returns. How will that day parallel the days when God fulfilled his prophecies on Egypt?

God further described his judgment on Egypt at the hands of the Babylonians.

Ezekiel 31 The cedar in Lebanon, oracle 5 (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 178-181) Look This entire chapter is the fifth oracle. Here the Lord reminds the pharaoh of Egypt about a former world empire, Assyria, and what had happened to it. Verse 18 “Eden”—Eden is a symbol of all that is lush and beautiful. Discuss 1. To whom does this vision apply? (verse 2)

2. What picture does God use to describe the former world empire of Assyria?

3. What happened to Assyria? Why did it happen? (verse 10-17)

4. What application does the Lord make to Egypt?

Apply 5. Name some “cedars of Lebanon” that have been cut down in recent centuries.

6. When is a nation ripe for God’s judgment?

Assyria was like a mighty cedar of Lebanon. Because of that empire’s pride, the Lord cut it down. The same would happen to Egypt.

Ezekiel 32 A lament for Pharaoh, oracles 6 and 7 (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 181-187) Look The sixth oracle (verses 1-16) is similar to the first oracle in chapter 29, in which the destruction of Egypt was foretold. This time the oracle describes the actual destruction of Egypt when it was taking place. The seventh oracle (verses 17-32) brings the prophecies against the nations to a climax by consigning Egypt to the same fate as all the other nations who have gone down into the nether world (“who go down to the pit,” verse 29). In chapters 25 to 32, seven nations are addressed, ending with Egypt, whose downfall was described in seven oracles. This is hardly a coincidence. The God of the covenant is protecting his people, the Israelites, from all their enemies. Discuss 1. How had Egypt churned the water and muddied the streams?

2. What pictures does the Lord use in verses 3-10?

3. Seven nations are mentioned as having gone into the grave. Can you name them? (verses 16-30)

4. What would be the only consolation Pharaoh would have? (verse 31)

Apply 5. Why does the Lord record all this history?

6. What is the Christian perspective on history? How is it different from the dominant secular view of history we find being taught in many schools today?

Egypt’s destruction was again prophesied. It would go down into the grave with the other nations that preceded it.

Ezekiel 33:1-20 Ezekiel as a watchman (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 189-195) Look Chapter 33 begins the third and final division of Ezekiel. In this final section we see God’s promise that he would restore Israel. In general, we see that God will restore the nation of Israel to the Promised Land. We also see symbols of the final defeat of God’s enemies and the establishment of the new city of God, where he will live with his people in eternity. Many of the symbols used in these final chapters are also used in the book of Revelation, which looks forward to the same events—God’s destruction of his enemies and the new heavens and new earth. In this chapter Ezekiel is called to be a watchman, as he had been in chapters 3 and 18. The shift in time and emphasis calls for Ezekiel to be a watchman again. Now he is to urge the people to repent in anticipation of God’s deliverance. He is also to keep the people from complaining that the way of the Lord is not just. God has been just on the basis of his law covenant. He will continue to be just as he shows Israel his grace founded on his covenant to Abraham. Discuss 1. Why did people in Ezekiel’s day place watchmen on their city walls?

2. What are the various ways the watchmen and people might interact?

3. What do verses 12-16 teach about each of the following? • once saved always saved • self-righteousness • repentance • fruits of faith • justification 4. Are God’s ways ever unjust?

Apply 5. Who are present-day watchmen?

God told Ezekiel to be a watchman and warn Israel to repent and wait for God’s blessing.

Ezekiel 33:21-33 Why did Jerusalem fall? (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 195-198) Look These verses describe the fall of Jerusalem and the attitude of the people still living in the land. Verse 21 “A man who had escaped”—It took the man 18 months to travel from Jerusalem to Babylon. Why it took so long for the news to reach Ezekiel, we are not told. Verse 28 “A desolate waste”—Five years after the fall of Jerusalem, a small remnant of 645 Jews was taken into exile and the land was left desolate. Discuss 1. What happened to Ezekiel the evening before the messenger arrived and reported the news about Jerusalem’s fall?

2. What was the attitude of the people left behind in Judah after the fall of Jerusalem?

3. What did God say would happen to them?

4. Characterize the people who came to Ezekiel to hear his messages.

Apply 5. What does God say to people today who do not put into practice what they hear in sermons or Bible studies?

6. Sometimes pastors are saddened because some people do not listen to their message. How can Ezekiel be a source of strength for people who bear witness to the gospel but are rejected?

Ezekiel received word that Jerusalem had fallen. The Israelites in Jerusalem and those in Babylon still refused to listen to the prophets and repent. Yet Ezekiel continued to serve as a watchman.

Ezekiel 34 Shepherds and the Shepherd (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 198-204) Look A shepherd’s care for his sheep is the most beautiful picture Scripture uses to describe God’s love and care for his people. God tells his under-shepherds, the leaders of Israel, not to neglect their responsibility. In the end, however, God himself is the only one who can shepherd his people to eternal life. Discuss 1. Whom was the Lord addressing in this chapter?

2. How had Israel’s shepherds measured up to their God-given responsibility? (verses 1-10)

3. How had the false sheep in Israel dealt with those who still believed in God? (verses 17-19)

4. What would God do because his shepherds had failed?

Apply 5. God described the future of the people of Israel in terms of their nation’s needs. How might we describe our future as God’s people in view of the nation in which we live?

The shepherds of Israel were unfaithful, but God would shepherd his people through Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and create perfect peace for them.

Ezekiel 35 A prophecy against Edom (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 204-208) Look Most of the prophecies against the nations are included in the middle section of Ezekiel. But God chooses one nation about which to speak more prophecies—Edom. Remember, the theme of this last section of Ezekiel is restoration. Edom appears here because it was intimately involved with Israel’s overthrow by the Babylonians. Therefore, Israel’s restoration would involve Edom as well, namely, its destruction. Verse 2 “Mount Seir”—Another name for Edom. It was the name of a mountain range running through Edom. Discuss 1. What had the Edomites done after Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians?

2. What did the Lord promise to do to the Edomites?

Apply 3. Can you give some examples of people who oppose and oppress God’s people today? What lessons does this section teach us about such people?

God foretold the destruction of Edom because of its involvement in Israel’s destruction by Babylon.

Ezekiel 36 A prophecy to the mountains of Israel (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 208-215) Look Verse 1 “The mountains of Israel”—Instead of becoming a desolate waste like Edom, Israel would again become productive. The land would no longer have the bad reputation of being a place of famine, drought, and war. For the sake of his holy name, God would cleanse it. Discuss 1. God had chastened Israel and used the nations around it for his purposes. But that did not excuse their maliciousness. Rather than submit themselves to God and acknowledge that he had given them power to overcome Israel, they ridiculed Israel and plundered it. What did God say he would do to these nations? (verses 1-7)

2. What blessings would God bestow on Israel in the future? (verses 8-15)

3. Why were the Israelites scattered among the nations? Why did this worry the Lord? What would God do about this? (verses 16-23)

4. What would God do for his people? (verses 24-38)

Apply 5. When Christians rebel against the Lord, they are putting both their salvation and God’s name in jeopardy. Explain.

6. Does this prophecy apply to us? If so, how?

The Israelites were punished for their sins, yet for the sake of his name, the Lord would restore Israel and make it great and glorious.

Ezekiel 37 The valley of dry bones (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 217-223) Look This chapter contains two striking object lessons. The first is the well-known vision of the valley of dry bones. The second is the vision of the two pieces of wood. Both visions explain what the Lord would do for Israel and Judah in the coming days. Discuss 1. What does Ezekiel see in his vision?

2. What does God tell Ezekiel to do? Note the two steps Ezekiel was to take.

3. What did this vision symbolize?

4. What was the second object lesson in which Ezekiel took part?

5. When would this object lesson be fulfilled? Hint: Look carefully at verse 24.

Apply 6. What role do we have in this prophecy?

Using two visions, God promised to restore Israel. Ezekiel’s vision clearly refers to the kingdom of God, built on the work of David’s son, Jesus.

Ezekiel 38 The prophecy against Gog (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 223-228) Look In a limited way, the restoration of the Israelites to their homeland in the days of King Cyrus of Persia fulfilled the prophecies of Ezekiel in the previous chapters. But Ezekiel was looking far into the future, to the time when the new spiritual Israel, which we call the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, would arise under the banner of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Satan would not rest when this new Jerusalem had been formed. In chapters 38 and 39, Ezekiel looks ahead to the final onslaught of Satan against the church. At that time the Lord will win his final victory and make his church secure for eternity. Verse 2 “Gog, of the land of Magog”—It is impossible to pinpoint who this is and where the land of Magog is. Even if Ezekiel and the people of his day knew who this was, it is clear that even when Ezekiel wrote, this person and this country were symbolic of all the enemies of God’s people. Verse 4 “I will turn you around.” The battle against God’s people was not initiated by Gog. It was initiated by the Lord. The Lord was setting up the enemies of God’s people by stirring in them a desire to attack and destroy God’s people once and for all. This would happen after Israel had been restored. Verse 16 “When I show myself holy through you before their eyes”—“Through you” refers to Gog. God’s holiness is his resolve to carry out his covenant of love with his people and his power to do so. God would complete his covenant promises by bringing Gog against his people and then bringing his attack to a sudden end. Discuss 1. What was going through Gog’s mind as he prepared to battle the Israelites?

2. What would happen to Gog when he attacked Israel? (verses 17-22)

3. What theme do we meet again at the end of this chapter?

Apply 4. Where do today’s Christians fit in this vision?

5. What are we to think when we see governmental powers and the powers of the false church attacking the true church, that is, those who follow the Lamb?

In the end, God would stir up Gog, symbolic of the worldwide forces of evil, to attack the church. God would intervene and destroy him.

Ezekiel 39 The final overthrow of God’s enemies (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 228-234) Look Gog, the enemy of God’s people, is dealt with in more detail in this chapter. The Lord’s enemies will be completely destroyed. The destruction of God’s enemies foretold in verses 1-10 is expanded on in the remainder of the chapter. The bodies of the slain will be food for the birds of the air. It will take seven months to bury the corpses of the slain. The restoration of the Israelites to their homeland would be but the beginning of a greater restoration yet to come. This greater restoration is dealt with in the next chapters. Verse 12 “Seven”—Seven is the number of the covenant. The seven months symbolize the final and complete fulfillment of God’s covenant promise to save his people and defeat their enemies. Discuss 1. Note the repetition of God’s threat to Gog in verses 1-8. Review: Why does God say his name will be holy when he brings his judgment on Gog?

2. Note the details of the vision. What do the following elements symbolize? • Gog’s weapons would supply fuel for seven months.

• The burial place of Gog and Magog would block a major road in Israel.

• The burial of Gog and his troops would take seven months.

• There would have to be a cleanup operation after the seven months.

3. What is the great sacrifice the Lord is speaking of in verse 19?

Apply 4. Review: When will verses 21-29 be fulfilled?

Ezekiel saw the aftermath of the destruction of Gog and Magog. God is shown to be holy, for he has fulfilled his covenant.

Ezekiel 40 The restoration: visions of a new temple (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 234-244) Look The Lord took Ezekiel to a high mountain and showed him the restored nation of Israel, complete with a new temple and a central, temple district. This ideal temple and a perfect land of Israel foretell the restoration of the Israelites to their homeland under King Cyrus of Persia. However, this vision also looks far into the future, to the establishment of the New Testament church and the final establishment of God’s people in the new heaven and earth. The final chapters of Ezekiel parallel the final two chapters of Revelation, in which John, from a high mountain, sees the new Jerusalem and watches as an angel measures and describes the city. Chapter 40 begins the description of the perfect temple. An angel measures and describes the wall, the gates, the outer courtyard, rooms for the priests, the places of sacrifices, and other parts of the city. Discuss 1. Where did the Lord take Ezekiel? Who was there to meet him?

2. What was Ezekiel to do with the information he was given?

3. What various parts of the temple are described in this chapter?

Apply 4. The outer walls and the court formed a perfect square. The layout of the temple indicates perfection. Name one thing that is perfect about the New Testament church.

Ezekiel saw a man with a measuring rod in his hand. The man proceeded to measure the outer courts of the temple. It was a perfect square.

Ezekiel 41,42 The restoration: visions of a new temple, continued (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 244-248) Look The angel continues to show Ezekiel the rooms and the courtyard that provide facilities for use by the priests, as well as the places where they could partake of the offerings and leave their garments. These are also described in considerable detail. Other than the fact that these details give us the general impression of remarkable precision and perfection, it would be difficult to determine the symbolical significance of each and every item described. Discuss 1. What parts of the temple are described in these chapters?

2. What was the purpose of the wall around the temple area? (42:20)

Apply 3. According to verse 20 of chapter 42, what is another characteristic of God’s church?

The angel measured the temple proper and the rooms for the priests.

Ezekiel 43 The Lord’s glory returns to the temple (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 248-256) Look Because of Israel’s sin and rebellion, the glory of the Lord had departed from the temple, leading to its destruction along with the city of Jerusalem at the hands of the Babylonians. Now the glory of the Lord returns to the temple. See the parallel with the heavenly Jerusalem in Revelation 21:22,23. The structure of this new temple and the rituals performed in it are somewhat similar to those described in Moses’ laws. But there are differences. For example, the altar seems to be the focal point of the temple, rather than the ark of the covenant. This may indicate the New Testament truth that the Old Testament law is no longer in force and that Christ’s sacrifice is the center of our religion. We can only speculate, however, about these kinds of details. Discuss 1. To what is Ezekiel referring in verse 3, when he says, “The vision I saw was like the vision I had seen when he came to destroy the city and like the visions I had seen by the Kebar river.”

2. Compare 43:4 with 10:19. What similarity do you see?

3. What did the Lord promise about his presence in the new temple?

4. Ezekiel was to describe the new temple to the Israelites. What hopefully would happen when they saw its design? (verses 10,11)

Apply 5. See Romans 12:1. What kind of sacrifices do God’s people offer him in the New Jerusalem?

6. Continue to reflect on the perfection of the New Testament church. Think about its glory.

The glory of the Lord returned to the temple. Sacrifices are continually offered there.

Ezekiel 44 Service and worship in the new temple (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 256-262) Look The rituals presented in the previous chapter are continued here. The direction of these changes, however, points us to greater restrictions being placed on some aspects of worship, especially those pertaining to the priests. Discuss 1. Why was the east gate never to be used again?

2. Only the prince could eat next to this door. Why?

Apply 3. Realities in the New Testament church are pictured here using Old Testament activities. A distinction is made between Levites in general and the sons of Zadok. Why? How do you think this applies to the New Testament period?

4. What else is perfect about the church? Focus on the church’s service to God.

The east gate was no longer used because God had passed through it. In the new church there will be no unfaithful Levites or priests. Only the faithful priests, the sons of Zadok, spiritually speaking, will serve the Lord in holiness.

Ezekiel 45 The division of the land; holy days (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 262-268) Look A portion of the land adjoining the temple complex was to be set aside as a “sacred portion.” The entire enclosure was an area of about six by seven miles square. This district, in turn, was to be divided into three parallel strips. One of these was for the Levites who were priests, one was for the centrally located sanctuary, and one for the city itself. The “prince,” or ruler, was to be assigned portions of land to the east and west of this sacred district. This is followed by specific rules and regulations pertaining to the support of the government as well as the support of the temple worship. Discuss 1. As noted above, the Lord began to portion off the land. Draw a rough diagram of the boundaries and label who was to live in each.

2. Who is the prince and how will he act? (See verses 8-12,17,22-25.)

3. Three festivals are to be kept. What are they and what do they symbolize?

Apply 4. Who are the princes among the new people of God, the church?

5. What sacrifices do we make to the Lord today?

Ezekiel saw the portion of the land given to the priests and the prince. He received instructions for offerings and the celebration of three festivals.

Ezekiel 46 Holy days (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 269-273) Look This chapter continues the theme of the last chapter. It describes additional regulations pertaining to the observance of Sabbath days, and church festivals are specified. Ezekiel’s guided tour of the temple and its courts is brought to a close at the place where the kitchens were located “where those who minister at the temple will cook the sacrifices of the people” (verse 24). Discuss 1. In a typical kingdom, the king often does not mingle with the people at worship services. This was no doubt true about the kings of Israel and Judah. Among them there weren’t many who worshiped at all. What is to be the relationship of the prince with the people in the restored land? (verses 9,10)

2. In a typical kingdom, the king might take or buy land from his subjects for his own use and then will the land to his son. Think of how wicked King Ahab tried to get Naboth’s vineyard for himself. How would it be different in the restored land?

Apply 3. Is orderliness important in our worship? How do we display a sense of orderliness in our worship?

4. This chapter continues describing the prince and his relationship with the people. For a New Testament parallel, read 1 Peter 5:1-3. What do these verses tell us about the relationship of pastor to congregation?

Ezekiel was given more instructions about worship. The prince was to play an important role in worship and spiritual leadership. He was to be content with his inheritance.

Ezekiel 47 The river that flows from the temple; the boundaries of the new land (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 273-277) Look Having seen the temple itself, Ezekiel is now shown the land on which it rests. Out of the temple’s south side flows a river toward the east, giving life to whatever comes into contact with it. Then the boundaries of the land are given. The Concordia Self-Study Commentary says: “These borders are not realistic geographical lines of demarcation. The idealize Promised Land, which they define, is the prophetic symbol of a place in time in which the worship presented in the previous chapters is envisioned as taking place. The time is the era of the holy Christian church, the place of the redeemed, restored community of saints, gathered from every nation and race on earth” (page 569). Discuss 1. What did Ezekiel see on the east side of the temple?

2. What was unusual about this river?

3. What did the river do?

4. The Lord specifies the boundaries of the new land. There would be something different between this land and the former land of Canaan. What would be different? (verses 21-23)

Apply 5. What corresponds to the river in the New Testament period.

6. What corresponds to non-Israelites being allowed to live in the restored land.

Ezekiel saw a river flowing from the temple giving life to all. He also saw the borders of the restored land, a place where people from all nations could live.

Ezekiel 48 The division of the land (The People’s Bible, Ezekiel, pages 277-281) Look In this final chapter of the book of Ezekiel, the tribes are first of all listed by name, each tribe receiving a portion seemingly of the same configuration and size regardless of its number of people, again pointing to the symbolic nature of this presentation. The details of the allotment of the priests and the Levites are included, as well as the general location designated for each tribe. Each tribe received equal privileges, blessings, and obligations. The book closes with a description of the exits of the city. Discuss 1. Draw or look at a diagram of the restored land.

2. What is central in the lives of those who live in this new land?

3. Each tribe will have its own special gate. What impression does that give you about the city?

4. What is the name of the city?

Apply 5. In verse 14 the Levites are told not to sell their land. In the New Testament church, what do you think corresponds to the sin of selling one’s land?

6. What is central to our lives as people of God in the New Testament?

7. What is the name of the New Jerusalem, the place where we live?

Ezekiel witnessed the division of the land with the new temple and the sacred district as its heart and center. He reads the name of the city: “The Lord is there.”