Fear Rebellion

    Yesterday we began talking about the vision that Ezekiel had.  It was just the introduction.  Today we begin to hear the interaction between God and Ezekiel.  It began with the Spirit entering Ezekiel to give him the strength to encounter God and complete his prophetic ministry.  God gave Ezekiel orders as the "Son of Man".  God gave Ezekiel this title for being a descendant of Adam, a member of humanity.

    God said He was sending Ezekiel to the rebellious Israelites.  God was sending him out among the pagans.  The obstinate and stubborn hearted needed to hear God's message.  It was not up to Ezekiel to force them to listen, only give the message.  

    God told Ezekiel that he had nothing to fear as long as his heart did not rebel too.  He was being sent out knowing he would be stung, like by a scorpion.  He just did not need to fear their threats, lies, or sharp words.  He was ordered not to get discouraged when they did not listen or by the look on their faces.  It was to be expected that he would face hostility.  Ezekiel's job to was to give them the message.  The rest was between them and God.    

    God provided Ezekiel with His scroll.  God unrolled it before Ezekiel and he saw that there was writing on both sides.  The words were full of lament, mourning, and woe.  It was about waiting for judgment and God was giving it to Ezekiel to eat.

Ezekiel 2