In this study, we continue our exploration of the major prophets with the book of Ezekiel. Known as the "visual prophet," Ezekiel used dramatic actions, objects, and visions to communicate God’s message to the Jewish captives in Babylon. From acting out a siege to lying on his side for over a year, his ministry was a living demonstration of the judgment and restoration of Israel.
We walk through the major themes and striking imagery found in this 48-chapter book:
- The Watchman’s Responsibility: Why God held Ezekiel accountable for warning the people, regardless of whether they chose to listen.
- Visual Signs and Sieges: A look at the clay tablet of Jerusalem, the symbolic bread baked over dung, and the cutting of his hair to represent the fate of the city.
- The Glory of God and Personal Responsibility: How God moved from the temple in Jerusalem and the vital lesson that "the soul who sins shall die"—but the one who repents shall live.
- The Valley of Dry Bones: Understanding the powerful vision of restoration and the promise of a future where God’s people are brought back to life under a "Prince" from the line of David.
- The New Temple and the River of Life: A discussion of the final, detailed vision of a temple and a city named "The Lord Is There," pointing forward to the church and the New Jerusalem.
Join us as we learn how Ezekiel’s message calls us to examine our own hearts, turn away from "idols in the heart," and recognize that we are now God’s temple today.