Posts
Sunday, September 5, 2010
September 5, 2010
One of our members was injured and is going through a long term recovery. Since it is significantly more difficult for him to attend, we have decided to put our meetings on hold. We will re-evaluate next month as his recovery progresses.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Daniel 1-4, August 15,2010
We had two for Wordlisteners, and we discussed the first four chapters of Daniel. While this book is widely known for prophecy in later chapters, it seems to give glimpses into the way anti-christ will be in the last days. Maybe I'm incorrect, but the similarities are striking between the way anti-christ will behave, and the way Nebuchadnezzar did behave.
Daniel Chapter 1
Daniel is about a time of exile, during Babylonian then MedoPersian rule of God's people. Some of the stories in there everyone is familiar with, but why has God let this book endure. The easy answer is for the prophesy, the more difficult answer I believe is that it will give glimpses into what life will be like in the last days before the millennial reign.
Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem and it was given into his hand. He took the best that was in the city back to Babylon, people and goods. In stead of being concerned with everyone, the king of Babylon an example of anti-christ was only interested in what he felt would serve him best.
Nebuchadnezzar then wanted to indoctrinate them (particularly the young) into the ways of the Chaldeans. This served him by getting him good officials for his kingdom and potentially and only slightly (which is all it takes) deflecting the identity as God's chosen people from the exiles.
Daniel and his friends stayed true to their beliefs, additionally this chapter has the best example of conflict resolution I have ever seen and it was written thousands of years ago. Daniel stated his case, proposed a test or method of resolution, gave another the final decision after the test results and left the rest up to God. He didn't manipulate (which is often done, or argue his case leaving out unflattering details), but rather was simple, straightforward, and timely. He left it for God to act, and not only did God protect His people, he blessed them.
In the last days people will be faced with seemingly easy choices that effectively deny God, what will they do? He is an answer – Trust Him. Daniel as a result of this continued through several rulers and kingdoms.
Daniel Chapter 2
Nebuchadnezzar had an unsettling dream. Interestingly he used it as a newer not so well established ruler to his advantage. The paranoia of being a new leader caused him to demand that the dream be told followed by the interpretation. He decreed that all the magicians conjurers and sorcerers be killed if there wasn't one that could tell his dream and the interpretation. Daniel was considered in this category. He was recognized for his ability, and since they didn't believe it was God led they assumed it was magic. These people had rightly told Nebuchadnezzar that they couldn't know his dream, for nobody knows what happens in another man's dreams. They did say the gods could, but only the true God can, because the others are not gods. Daniel heard about it because he was to be killed, and he asked for time. Then he went to his friends to get them to pray with him that God would show them.
As to end times the anti-christ will look for answers wherever he can find them, and he will be unsettled about things at least early on.
God revealed the dream and interpretation to Daniel. Daniel praised God and not just slightly, he was truly grateful and not just in a moment of passing. Daniel went to the person appointed for killing the now “wise” men and told him not to kill them. He was then taken to the king. He gave God all the credit and said that only God and not man could do what he had requested. His dream was a glance at world history. Four major kingdoms (Babylon being the first). That they are all mentioned together means a common thread of some sort. One of the common ties is that the final kingdom may have attributes of the first. In this case a very charismatic leader like Nebuchadnezzar.
The fourth kingdom is struck by a stone cut “without hands”, and all of the kingdoms become as chaff. Without hands may mean that man is not involved, God doesn't need our help, He is sovereign and what He wants to happen will. That the kingdoms become chaff mean there will be nothing lasting from them. Four thousand years of human history and nothing enduring that is human. The only enduring things are the things of God.
This stone (without hands) will become a kingdom and will endure. The Kingdom of God brought in under Rome (not called by name) by Jesus, and will endure forever. Jesus will reign on earth one thousand years.
Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God, after listening to Daniel state the dream and interpretation. He promotes Daniel who remembers his three friends. The anti-christ will probably acknowledge God as does the devil. Acknowledging and following are not the same, a good thing to keep in mind.
Daniel Chapter 3
In the last chapter Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God, in this chapter he is having a bout of pride. The devil is proud, and it will lead to thinking you know better than God. Nebuchadnezzar makes a golden image, and requires people to bow down to it and the sound of music.
Daniel writes this but there is no mention of his presence, as being an important leader he may have been away on country business when this happened- its pure speculation. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were there however and they didn't bow. In this story those that didn't bow were to be thrown into the fiery furnace of a man. Very similar to those in the end times who won't be able to trade except by taking the mark of the beast. In the end times those that do bow and do take the mark of the beast will be thrown into God's lake of fire. So in Daniel we see that Shadrach, Meshech and Abednego had to make a decision (an action of faith) that shows they follow God. In the end times all will have to make that decision to follow God or do the easy thing and follow man.
God will take care of His people in the end times as He did for Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. They had to go through the fiery furnace, but its better to go into man's fiery furnace with God, than God's fiery furnace with man. In an attempt to make his point Nebuchadnezzar had the furnace heated seven times more than normal (7 years of tribulation- being in the furnace of tribulation??) and those that threw them in Daniel's friends were burned up. Nebuchadnezzar made a decree that anyone who spoke against God would be torn limb from limb and have their house destroyed. In the end times, the anti-christ will seemingly be one who calls for the protection of God's people the Jews.
Daniel Chapter 4
This starts out with Nebuchadnezzar praising God, declaring the wonders of God and his everlasting Kingdom. He then has another troubling dream. Unlike the first dream Nebuchadnezzar relates the dream to his wise men, but nobody is able to interpret it. He is feeling more secure as a leader at this point maybe? Daniel comes before him and rightly interprets the dream. Daniel is fearful to interpret because it is specifically about Nebuchadnezzar, and its not flattering, but he does it.
Nebuchadnezzar's pride will cause him to lose his mind and be driven from mankind for seven years. The mind of a beast will be given to him. In the tribulation period that lasts seven years the anti-christ will be given the mind of the beast (the devil), and his pride will be exceedingly great. A man with all the answers, full of human wisdom acknowledging God but not doing things God's way. This will deceive many.
Nebuchadnezzar will keep the mind of the beast until he acknowledges that God is in control and not himself. At which point the kingdom will be restored to him. The anti-christ will not acknowledge that God is in control and be destroyed at the end of the tribulation period. Daniel invites Nebuchadnezzar to repent and turn from his ways, practice (do) righteousness that maybe this will be avoided.
One year later it was fulfilled, just as described, and seven years later Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God and that He was in charge (even in his own personal life), and surpassing greatness was added. The Lord is able to humble the proud, even great leaders.
Daniel Chapter 1
Daniel is about a time of exile, during Babylonian then MedoPersian rule of God's people. Some of the stories in there everyone is familiar with, but why has God let this book endure. The easy answer is for the prophesy, the more difficult answer I believe is that it will give glimpses into what life will be like in the last days before the millennial reign.
Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem and it was given into his hand. He took the best that was in the city back to Babylon, people and goods. In stead of being concerned with everyone, the king of Babylon an example of anti-christ was only interested in what he felt would serve him best.
Nebuchadnezzar then wanted to indoctrinate them (particularly the young) into the ways of the Chaldeans. This served him by getting him good officials for his kingdom and potentially and only slightly (which is all it takes) deflecting the identity as God's chosen people from the exiles.
Daniel and his friends stayed true to their beliefs, additionally this chapter has the best example of conflict resolution I have ever seen and it was written thousands of years ago. Daniel stated his case, proposed a test or method of resolution, gave another the final decision after the test results and left the rest up to God. He didn't manipulate (which is often done, or argue his case leaving out unflattering details), but rather was simple, straightforward, and timely. He left it for God to act, and not only did God protect His people, he blessed them.
In the last days people will be faced with seemingly easy choices that effectively deny God, what will they do? He is an answer – Trust Him. Daniel as a result of this continued through several rulers and kingdoms.
Daniel Chapter 2
Nebuchadnezzar had an unsettling dream. Interestingly he used it as a newer not so well established ruler to his advantage. The paranoia of being a new leader caused him to demand that the dream be told followed by the interpretation. He decreed that all the magicians conjurers and sorcerers be killed if there wasn't one that could tell his dream and the interpretation. Daniel was considered in this category. He was recognized for his ability, and since they didn't believe it was God led they assumed it was magic. These people had rightly told Nebuchadnezzar that they couldn't know his dream, for nobody knows what happens in another man's dreams. They did say the gods could, but only the true God can, because the others are not gods. Daniel heard about it because he was to be killed, and he asked for time. Then he went to his friends to get them to pray with him that God would show them.
As to end times the anti-christ will look for answers wherever he can find them, and he will be unsettled about things at least early on.
God revealed the dream and interpretation to Daniel. Daniel praised God and not just slightly, he was truly grateful and not just in a moment of passing. Daniel went to the person appointed for killing the now “wise” men and told him not to kill them. He was then taken to the king. He gave God all the credit and said that only God and not man could do what he had requested. His dream was a glance at world history. Four major kingdoms (Babylon being the first). That they are all mentioned together means a common thread of some sort. One of the common ties is that the final kingdom may have attributes of the first. In this case a very charismatic leader like Nebuchadnezzar.
The fourth kingdom is struck by a stone cut “without hands”, and all of the kingdoms become as chaff. Without hands may mean that man is not involved, God doesn't need our help, He is sovereign and what He wants to happen will. That the kingdoms become chaff mean there will be nothing lasting from them. Four thousand years of human history and nothing enduring that is human. The only enduring things are the things of God.
This stone (without hands) will become a kingdom and will endure. The Kingdom of God brought in under Rome (not called by name) by Jesus, and will endure forever. Jesus will reign on earth one thousand years.
Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God, after listening to Daniel state the dream and interpretation. He promotes Daniel who remembers his three friends. The anti-christ will probably acknowledge God as does the devil. Acknowledging and following are not the same, a good thing to keep in mind.
Daniel Chapter 3
In the last chapter Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God, in this chapter he is having a bout of pride. The devil is proud, and it will lead to thinking you know better than God. Nebuchadnezzar makes a golden image, and requires people to bow down to it and the sound of music.
Daniel writes this but there is no mention of his presence, as being an important leader he may have been away on country business when this happened- its pure speculation. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were there however and they didn't bow. In this story those that didn't bow were to be thrown into the fiery furnace of a man. Very similar to those in the end times who won't be able to trade except by taking the mark of the beast. In the end times those that do bow and do take the mark of the beast will be thrown into God's lake of fire. So in Daniel we see that Shadrach, Meshech and Abednego had to make a decision (an action of faith) that shows they follow God. In the end times all will have to make that decision to follow God or do the easy thing and follow man.
God will take care of His people in the end times as He did for Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. They had to go through the fiery furnace, but its better to go into man's fiery furnace with God, than God's fiery furnace with man. In an attempt to make his point Nebuchadnezzar had the furnace heated seven times more than normal (7 years of tribulation- being in the furnace of tribulation??) and those that threw them in Daniel's friends were burned up. Nebuchadnezzar made a decree that anyone who spoke against God would be torn limb from limb and have their house destroyed. In the end times, the anti-christ will seemingly be one who calls for the protection of God's people the Jews.
Daniel Chapter 4
This starts out with Nebuchadnezzar praising God, declaring the wonders of God and his everlasting Kingdom. He then has another troubling dream. Unlike the first dream Nebuchadnezzar relates the dream to his wise men, but nobody is able to interpret it. He is feeling more secure as a leader at this point maybe? Daniel comes before him and rightly interprets the dream. Daniel is fearful to interpret because it is specifically about Nebuchadnezzar, and its not flattering, but he does it.
Nebuchadnezzar's pride will cause him to lose his mind and be driven from mankind for seven years. The mind of a beast will be given to him. In the tribulation period that lasts seven years the anti-christ will be given the mind of the beast (the devil), and his pride will be exceedingly great. A man with all the answers, full of human wisdom acknowledging God but not doing things God's way. This will deceive many.
Nebuchadnezzar will keep the mind of the beast until he acknowledges that God is in control and not himself. At which point the kingdom will be restored to him. The anti-christ will not acknowledge that God is in control and be destroyed at the end of the tribulation period. Daniel invites Nebuchadnezzar to repent and turn from his ways, practice (do) righteousness that maybe this will be avoided.
One year later it was fulfilled, just as described, and seven years later Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God and that He was in charge (even in his own personal life), and surpassing greatness was added. The Lord is able to humble the proud, even great leaders.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
August 8, 2010 Ezekiel 45-48 (end)
Wordlisteners was held tonight in the private home of two of our members. 6 people were present. We discussed the last four chapters of Ezekiel. It is normally taught that Jesus is the perfect sacrifice, and yet in some books with this one in particular - sacrifices are mentioned taking place in a temple as best as we can tell hasn't been built yet, and may very well be the temple in the millennial reign of our Lord.
We read, and we know that God has it under control. God sees everything at once, we're more chronologically based, so that may help explain. The fact that it survived into the Bible probably means it was meant for us in some way. Also born again believers still give which is an act of sacrifice. All of these things we discussed. Other things we are still not sure about.
We decided as a group to start Daniel next week. Below are the notes I made to finish up Ezekiel.
Ezekiel 45
The dividing of the land, the Lord's portion for Him and those that minister to Him and for Him. Then the prince or leader of Israel. The leader will no longer oppress the people, they will have an inheritance. They are to practice righteousness and justice, having just balances and scales. This seemingly hasn't happened yet, however Jesus will bring this about for sure during the millennial reign.
Now an offering the people give to the prince who then provides the burnt offerings, grain offerings and drink offerings at all appointed feasts. The sacrifices from verse 18 on seem to apply to the rebuilt temple after exile. There is a cleansing of the sanctuary using sin offering, an atonement for the house- for those going astray, a Passover celebration, burnt offerings and sin offerings. Jesus sacrifice makes us right with God, but our offering for our sins may continue, or that this only applied for the time when the temple is initially rebuilt. Why was it saved for us? To point the sacrificial system to Jesus, and remind us of God's great love for us.
Ezekiel 46
The prince's offering, on new moons and Sabbaths, the leader shall worship before the Lord. He shall bring sacrifices and humble himself before the God of the universe, that gave him his position. The leader of the people of Jerusalem is to acknowledge God. His position is controlled by God. Does this establish a state religion? I don't think so, for no where in the Bible does it say to kill those that won't follow Christ, or won't acknowledge God. God wants all to come to Him. Calling for the killing of those that refuse to worship in a certain way is a tell tale sign that God is not being worshiped, but something else. Another god, a doctrine, or creed. Our God is perfectly capable of stopping the hearts of those that have made their final decision, or given their final answer.
This makes Christians easy targets, because we do hold out hope. Anyone that feels compelled to go along with Christian acts of worship may be being led by the Holy Spirit. God looks on the heart – on the intentions, there is nothing to be gained by going along in God's eyes, He wants your heart. If you feel threatened by men for not, then God is giving you an indication that your priorities align with pleasing men rather than God. A feeling guilty may be a personal acknowledgement that you do in fact recognize God. Christians are to do works before men such that God's light can be seen Matt 5:16. Public open acknowledgement of God in worship is a work.
The prince when worshiping goes out the way he comes in, the people worshiping are to pass through, not sure why. The prince has an inheritance to give sons, he no longer has to take from the people. This will keep God's people from being scattered from their possessions.
Then a reference to isolating sacrifices such as to not transmit holiness to the people- I'm not sure why.
Ezekiel 47
Water from the temple- a millennial glance forward. Water from south of the alter flowing east, a trickle of water turning into a flowing river. Flowing to the sea and making the sea fresh, teeming with fish. The only sea east of Jerusalem is the Dead sea Engedi on the west middle side, and Eneglaim on the southeast corner. Trees will grow beside the river, and the fruit will not fail. The fruit will come every month and the leaves for healing (Gen 2:9 and Rev 22:2).
The border described surrounds Lebanon an Israel, it shall be divided by lot between Israel and aliens in the midst. God promised aliens in the midst of Israel an inheritance along with the Israelites. This explains why these people don't want to leave. If they are there when the land is divided by lot then they will be in the inheritance. Is the church part of the aliens amongst Israel?
Ezekiel 48
The land is to be divided from North to South the following way. Dan(1), then Asher(2), then Naphtali(3), then Mannasseh(4), then Ephraim(5), then Reuben(6), then Judah(7), an allotment to the Lord subdivided for the sons of Zadok, the Levites, and common use, the city of the Lord is here, a piece for growing food, and a portion for the leader (prince) with the Sanctuary in the middle of his. Anything not designated is for the prince. South of that will be Benjamin(8) , Simeon (9), Issachar (10), Zebulon (11) and Gad(12).
Now a city description, three gates on each side (one for each tribe), 4500 cubits on each side. There are visuals available on the Internet.
If the Lord tarries what will happen to our beliefs? Our creeds? Our surety of His soon coming? We have to remember that He is God, He is sovereign and He will come at the best time. We would like to put Him in a box, but if we could He wouldn't be God.
We read, and we know that God has it under control. God sees everything at once, we're more chronologically based, so that may help explain. The fact that it survived into the Bible probably means it was meant for us in some way. Also born again believers still give which is an act of sacrifice. All of these things we discussed. Other things we are still not sure about.
We decided as a group to start Daniel next week. Below are the notes I made to finish up Ezekiel.
Ezekiel 45
The dividing of the land, the Lord's portion for Him and those that minister to Him and for Him. Then the prince or leader of Israel. The leader will no longer oppress the people, they will have an inheritance. They are to practice righteousness and justice, having just balances and scales. This seemingly hasn't happened yet, however Jesus will bring this about for sure during the millennial reign.
Now an offering the people give to the prince who then provides the burnt offerings, grain offerings and drink offerings at all appointed feasts. The sacrifices from verse 18 on seem to apply to the rebuilt temple after exile. There is a cleansing of the sanctuary using sin offering, an atonement for the house- for those going astray, a Passover celebration, burnt offerings and sin offerings. Jesus sacrifice makes us right with God, but our offering for our sins may continue, or that this only applied for the time when the temple is initially rebuilt. Why was it saved for us? To point the sacrificial system to Jesus, and remind us of God's great love for us.
Ezekiel 46
The prince's offering, on new moons and Sabbaths, the leader shall worship before the Lord. He shall bring sacrifices and humble himself before the God of the universe, that gave him his position. The leader of the people of Jerusalem is to acknowledge God. His position is controlled by God. Does this establish a state religion? I don't think so, for no where in the Bible does it say to kill those that won't follow Christ, or won't acknowledge God. God wants all to come to Him. Calling for the killing of those that refuse to worship in a certain way is a tell tale sign that God is not being worshiped, but something else. Another god, a doctrine, or creed. Our God is perfectly capable of stopping the hearts of those that have made their final decision, or given their final answer.
This makes Christians easy targets, because we do hold out hope. Anyone that feels compelled to go along with Christian acts of worship may be being led by the Holy Spirit. God looks on the heart – on the intentions, there is nothing to be gained by going along in God's eyes, He wants your heart. If you feel threatened by men for not, then God is giving you an indication that your priorities align with pleasing men rather than God. A feeling guilty may be a personal acknowledgement that you do in fact recognize God. Christians are to do works before men such that God's light can be seen Matt 5:16. Public open acknowledgement of God in worship is a work.
The prince when worshiping goes out the way he comes in, the people worshiping are to pass through, not sure why. The prince has an inheritance to give sons, he no longer has to take from the people. This will keep God's people from being scattered from their possessions.
Then a reference to isolating sacrifices such as to not transmit holiness to the people- I'm not sure why.
Ezekiel 47
Water from the temple- a millennial glance forward. Water from south of the alter flowing east, a trickle of water turning into a flowing river. Flowing to the sea and making the sea fresh, teeming with fish. The only sea east of Jerusalem is the Dead sea Engedi on the west middle side, and Eneglaim on the southeast corner. Trees will grow beside the river, and the fruit will not fail. The fruit will come every month and the leaves for healing (Gen 2:9 and Rev 22:2).
The border described surrounds Lebanon an Israel, it shall be divided by lot between Israel and aliens in the midst. God promised aliens in the midst of Israel an inheritance along with the Israelites. This explains why these people don't want to leave. If they are there when the land is divided by lot then they will be in the inheritance. Is the church part of the aliens amongst Israel?
Ezekiel 48
The land is to be divided from North to South the following way. Dan(1), then Asher(2), then Naphtali(3), then Mannasseh(4), then Ephraim(5), then Reuben(6), then Judah(7), an allotment to the Lord subdivided for the sons of Zadok, the Levites, and common use, the city of the Lord is here, a piece for growing food, and a portion for the leader (prince) with the Sanctuary in the middle of his. Anything not designated is for the prince. South of that will be Benjamin(8) , Simeon (9), Issachar (10), Zebulon (11) and Gad(12).
Now a city description, three gates on each side (one for each tribe), 4500 cubits on each side. There are visuals available on the Internet.
If the Lord tarries what will happen to our beliefs? Our creeds? Our surety of His soon coming? We have to remember that He is God, He is sovereign and He will come at the best time. We would like to put Him in a box, but if we could He wouldn't be God.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Ezekiel 40-44 July 11, 2010
We had 5 for Wordlisteners. Another church meeting was scheduled, and it overlapped our time. We discussed Ezekiel 40- 44. These are difficult chapters to reconcile with various beliefs. It has occured to us that like a lot of prophecy in the Bible these chapters have parts that have been fulfilled, some that may have been or may yet be (or both), and some that clearly has not been fulfilled. Since God sees without time, He had it recorded this way, whereas we like to see things along a time line. Its also clear that we don't have all the answers, but we worship the One who does.
We didn't make a decision about next weeks meeting. It seems another gathering has been planned that will overlap with our normal time. I am planning to be there in case some show up.
The week after will be Bible school, the week after that praise and worship. Realistically our next meeting might be August 8.
Notes
Ezekiel 40
The same day Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians, God brought Ezekiel there and gave him a vision. The vision turns out to be of the future (hasn't happened yet), but He wants us to live His Kingdom now or presently. Always waiting can make a person miserable- enjoy God now – walk with Him now.
A structure like a city and told to proclaim it to Israel, declare what he sees. We have to put forth the vision of the Kingdom of God -now – with justice and righteousness. Is that walking with God like Enoch? The structure like a “city”, but is the measurements of the Temple. An awesome building not yet built, but plans given the day of the destruction of the old Temple, so when Israel gets where they need to be they will be ready. As part of this provisions are made for burnt offerings, sin offerings and guilt offerings. Sacrifices were to be slaughtered on tables.
Jesus was the perfect offering for our redemption (redemption of man) and our atonement. A right standing with God. There will be sacrifices to God in the millennial reign, worship is a sacrifice to God. People acknowledging who God is will bring offerings and sacrifices, the sacrifice of praise for sure.
Ezekiel 41
Now the inner temple and the most Holy place paneled with wood. An alter of wood described as being before the Lord.
Ezekiel 42
Now the chambers of the temple are described. Holy chambers for the priests near the Lord. Millennial reign will have people who have not made a choice to follow the Lord Jesus. He will be teaching and instructing nations from Jerusalem. Some freewill it seems will exist. So priests near the Lord will have to be isolated and change clothes, this also may help explain the sacrifices. There will also be a division between Holy and profane. It may also be as with many things of the Lord -partially fulfilled at different times in History.
Ezekiel 43
The Glory of God comes from the east and fills the temple. This temple will be His footstool and there is no condition on Him staying if Israel will be obedient. Rather there is a statement that Israel will not defile His name. Furthermore He will dwell with them forever, Israel will put away harlotry. Harlotry or idolatry putting something before God.. This would place this temple in the millennial reign.
This new temple is described again on the very day of the destruction of Solomon's temple so that when Israel gets serious with God- by repenting and realizing their deeds they will know that God has been waiting for them. He has also been planning this day for many thousand years.
The alter of sacrifice is described, offerings will be required on this alter to purify it (or cleanse it). The alter must be atoned for, Jesus died for men not things. The alter was defiled and must be atoned for through sacrifice. Seven days of alter atonement (similar to seven years of tribulation period) and then burnt and peace offerings to the Lord will be acceptable. The idea of alter atonement is also similar to the idea of making restitution for sin. Paying back what was taken plus 20%.
Ezekiel 44
The east gate was shut because the Lord came through it to fill the temple with His glory. Hasn't happened yet. Not even in the temple rebuilt by after the Babylonian exile. Some people say this is done to keep people from worshiping the rising sun. Others a figurative return of the glory of the Lord to Jerusalem after exile.
The prince is clearly not Jesus, because he comes and goes but not as God. Not a king either but rather maybe a leader of the city. Jerusalem after the exile had rulers but it wasn't a kingdom. The visible glory of the Lord fills the temple, and the abominations of Israel are repeated.
Israel wasn't serious about God, they didn't treat Him as Holy. Uncircumcised profaned His sanctuary, they did not keep track of His Holy things, foreigners were actually put in charge of the Sanctuary. The Levites are then scolded, they went far from Him. This will not result in a loss of being priests, just that they won't minister to God. They are to keep charge of the house.
The sons of Zadok (a subsection of the Levitical priests) will be those that come into the Lord's presence to minister to Him. Having to change clothes to go from God's presence out to the puts it in the millennial reign, or before.
The priests teach the people the difference between Holy and profane, clean and unclean- this may have happened immediately after the Babylonian exile when Nehemiah and Ezra were active, and the rest of the chapter sounds as if it has been fulfilled during the temple restoration after the exile.
Sacrifices were also given to support the priests, that continues even today as clergy are supported by their congregations.
We didn't make a decision about next weeks meeting. It seems another gathering has been planned that will overlap with our normal time. I am planning to be there in case some show up.
The week after will be Bible school, the week after that praise and worship. Realistically our next meeting might be August 8.
Notes
Ezekiel 40
The same day Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians, God brought Ezekiel there and gave him a vision. The vision turns out to be of the future (hasn't happened yet), but He wants us to live His Kingdom now or presently. Always waiting can make a person miserable- enjoy God now – walk with Him now.
A structure like a city and told to proclaim it to Israel, declare what he sees. We have to put forth the vision of the Kingdom of God -now – with justice and righteousness. Is that walking with God like Enoch? The structure like a “city”, but is the measurements of the Temple. An awesome building not yet built, but plans given the day of the destruction of the old Temple, so when Israel gets where they need to be they will be ready. As part of this provisions are made for burnt offerings, sin offerings and guilt offerings. Sacrifices were to be slaughtered on tables.
Jesus was the perfect offering for our redemption (redemption of man) and our atonement. A right standing with God. There will be sacrifices to God in the millennial reign, worship is a sacrifice to God. People acknowledging who God is will bring offerings and sacrifices, the sacrifice of praise for sure.
Ezekiel 41
Now the inner temple and the most Holy place paneled with wood. An alter of wood described as being before the Lord.
Ezekiel 42
Now the chambers of the temple are described. Holy chambers for the priests near the Lord. Millennial reign will have people who have not made a choice to follow the Lord Jesus. He will be teaching and instructing nations from Jerusalem. Some freewill it seems will exist. So priests near the Lord will have to be isolated and change clothes, this also may help explain the sacrifices. There will also be a division between Holy and profane. It may also be as with many things of the Lord -partially fulfilled at different times in History.
Ezekiel 43
The Glory of God comes from the east and fills the temple. This temple will be His footstool and there is no condition on Him staying if Israel will be obedient. Rather there is a statement that Israel will not defile His name. Furthermore He will dwell with them forever, Israel will put away harlotry. Harlotry or idolatry putting something before God.. This would place this temple in the millennial reign.
This new temple is described again on the very day of the destruction of Solomon's temple so that when Israel gets serious with God- by repenting and realizing their deeds they will know that God has been waiting for them. He has also been planning this day for many thousand years.
The alter of sacrifice is described, offerings will be required on this alter to purify it (or cleanse it). The alter must be atoned for, Jesus died for men not things. The alter was defiled and must be atoned for through sacrifice. Seven days of alter atonement (similar to seven years of tribulation period) and then burnt and peace offerings to the Lord will be acceptable. The idea of alter atonement is also similar to the idea of making restitution for sin. Paying back what was taken plus 20%.
Ezekiel 44
The east gate was shut because the Lord came through it to fill the temple with His glory. Hasn't happened yet. Not even in the temple rebuilt by after the Babylonian exile. Some people say this is done to keep people from worshiping the rising sun. Others a figurative return of the glory of the Lord to Jerusalem after exile.
The prince is clearly not Jesus, because he comes and goes but not as God. Not a king either but rather maybe a leader of the city. Jerusalem after the exile had rulers but it wasn't a kingdom. The visible glory of the Lord fills the temple, and the abominations of Israel are repeated.
Israel wasn't serious about God, they didn't treat Him as Holy. Uncircumcised profaned His sanctuary, they did not keep track of His Holy things, foreigners were actually put in charge of the Sanctuary. The Levites are then scolded, they went far from Him. This will not result in a loss of being priests, just that they won't minister to God. They are to keep charge of the house.
The sons of Zadok (a subsection of the Levitical priests) will be those that come into the Lord's presence to minister to Him. Having to change clothes to go from God's presence out to the puts it in the millennial reign, or before.
The priests teach the people the difference between Holy and profane, clean and unclean- this may have happened immediately after the Babylonian exile when Nehemiah and Ezra were active, and the rest of the chapter sounds as if it has been fulfilled during the temple restoration after the exile.
Sacrifices were also given to support the priests, that continues even today as clergy are supported by their congregations.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
June 27, 2010 Wordlisteners Ezekiel 37-39
We had 7 for Wordlisteners tonight, and the topic of discussion was Ezekiel 37-39. We also had more homemade ice cream. All was good. Chapter 37 is very rapture like in description, 38 and 39 describe the opening acts of the tribulation period. Come quickly Lord Jesus, all the things described in the book can happen at anytime. God is in control.
Our next meeting is scheduled for July 11th, 2010
Ezekiel 37
The Lord took him in spirit to a valley of dry bones. It is interesting that in the message edition Assyria and Babylon are said to have eaten Israel, and spit out bones. In Jeremiah 7:32-8:2 and in Jeremiah 50:17 the references to the destruction of Israel and then Judah are clear.
At the valley he is told to prophesy over the bones, and when he does the bones come together and flesh becomes attached. These bodies are not breathing until he is told to prophecy breath into them. Then they are fully alive. This is an example of the dead in Christ coming to life.
The next section explains what we just read. The bones are the "whole" house of Israel. Does this include the Christians? Christians do become part of the house of Israel. There is also the statement that God will make graves open (rapture like), and He will bring them into the land of Israel. The opening of the graves, and resurrection of the dead will show those resurrected and others that He is Lord.
At this point I'm reminded of the NT story of the resurrection of Lazarus. Jesus heard he was sick, and could have gone to heal him, but instead waited until he had died to act. In the story there was greater awe over a resurrection than there would have been over a healing. The raising of the dead will be an awe inspiring event that gets people's attention.
I think the breath in the bones that reformed bodies is the spirit of God. God will put His spirit in them and place them in their land (Israel- literal? Rapture?). The Lord does this and people know He is God. Since this is somewhat unbelievable in the natural we are reminded that what the Lord speaks He will do, it will happen.
I think this is more than Cyrus releasing the exiles from Babylon, and sending them home. God certainly brought that about as well, but there are things (if meant literally) that hasn't happened yet.
Verse 15 two sticks. Judah and Ephraim joined together one nation. One people after Babylonian exile, but not a nation until 1948. Was 1948 an act of God? an act of man trying to force God's hand? God made it happen, or He allowed it. God is sovereign. God will restore Israel and David will be their king, that description hasn't happened yet. The people will also follow His statutes and ordinances. Looking those up they run from Leviticus 18 to the end.
These are listed after sin and atonement offerings. Hebrews 9:23 states Jesus was the perfect sin offering allowing us back into right relationship with God. The following of His statutes by His restored people is mentioned plenty. These statutes involve sacrifices. Ezekiel describes a temple that hasn't been built yet (clearly, and may be the one of the 1000 year reign), but it has tables where animal sacrifices are prepared. Literal or figurative? Consider the following:
1. Our giving of money or tithing could be considered a sacrifice. It is an active sign of our acknowledgement of who God is. In that time (Ezekiel's) animals were capital (money). Since we still give tithes and offerings, after Jesus, it is plausible that some sacrifices will happen in the millennial reign. As described by Ezekiel in Chapter 40 and beyond.
2. In Leviticus the sin offering and atonement is first, then the following of the statutes and ordinances. Some of the sacrifices were clearly to support our fellow men, the priests, the poor, etc. In the 1000 year reign we will very gladly serve each other putting the needs of others first.
Back to Ezekiel, a few promises -Israel will live in the land given to Jacob with Jesus as Prince forever. God will place them there (after period in heaven?, or instantly in the process of restoring His people?) He will multiply them, and set His sanctuary in their midst (described later). God will dwell with them (in Israel) and nations will know God is Lord when His sanctuary is in their midst forever. Jerusalem a light to the world.
Now IF and I underline IF this happens just prior to the tribulation period, then imagine Jesus (or David) on the throne, His spirit poured out, the dead resurrected and brought forth to live there also.
Would city defenses be necessary?
Would the nation seem to be at peace and seemingly defenseless?
Ezekiel 38
Gog a nation from the North, Nations described include present day Russia, Iran, Ethiopia, and Turkey- all non arabic. Arabic nations will have an anti-christ peace treaty so Israel will feel secure. God will use them to demonstrate He is God.
Verse 8 is interesting- Israel is a land restored from the sword. Can be interpreted a couple ways. restored from the sword = war torn (1948), or restored from the sword = a land where wars don't happen anymore, the people truly follow God, worshiping and relying on Him.
The invaders coming- are they more likely to attack an armed Israel or one that is following the Lord at peace? Kind of hard to imagine, but the power of God is greater than we can imagine. Large numbers are indicated, interestingly it is our new military tactic- overwhelm the enemy. This can mean an attack expecting resistance. The statement that people are living securely- probably has never described current Israel.
The enemy will come like a cloud against a peaceable people living without bars or gates- trying to overwhelm God? Back in 36 the waste cities of Israel will be inhabited and fortified, yet will be without bars and gates? Their intent isn't stated to be annihilation but rather to plunder and spoil- from the affects of famine? Back in Chapter 36 the Lord states in vs 29 and 30 that when Israel is restored He will not allow the disgrace of famine. When the Lord turned His back to Jerusalem in Jeremiah famine soon followed. If restoring Israel and making the statement He is God then famine to the north could occur, while Israel has plenty, making them a clear plunder and spoil target.
It will be a day of plunder when Israel is living securely, and Gog knows it (vs 14)- peace treaty? This invasion has been prophesied for many years by the prophets of Israel (vs 17). Gog will be used to sanctify or set apart God. He will set Himself apart and call attention to Himself through their act of invasion and His response.
His response is said to be earthquakes in Israel (worldwide?- all the people of the earth will feel it). Mountains flattened. The invaders will turn on each other in panic, and fire and brimstone will rain down. This will magnify God, set Him apart, and make Him known in the sight of many nations. This will be the first part of the tribulation period, the first horse of the four in Revelation.
Ezekiel 39
Invasion of the blessed mountains of Israel. Invaders coming to plunder looking for food and cattle. They will fall on the mountains of Israel. The earthquake happens and they turn on each other. Fire falls on the parts their countries where people who didn't come as part of the invasion are. This is a demonstration that the Lord is God, not men with their supposed reasoning and military might. Israel will know He is the Lord- the point they turn to Christ?
The fallen invaders will become plunder for Israel. Interesting - God blesses His people Israel after restoring them, others become jealous and seek to plunder them but in fact end up giving up what they have (that God gave) to Israel. Its all God's - He'll redistribute it as He sees fit. James 4:2 is appropriate here. Instead of deciding to take from Israel they could have repented and asked God to bless them.
It will take 7 months to bury the dead and the plunder will last 7 years. So many dead the birds will eat. Interestingly it is called the Lord's sacrifice for the birds. Remember, He created these men, He desired something better for them, but their choices caused them to have to be sacrificed. So it is a cost of sorts to the Lord that they are slain (His creation destroyed). The sacrifice will be His table that He set for His birds, men don't have to do anything to bring it about.
All nations will see His action and His judgment. The house of Israel will know He is God from that day on.
The nations will realize that even though the history of the Jewish people involved hardship and exile, they are still His people.
God blesses the obedient, although truly obedient people aren't after worldly blessings.
God protects His chosen (not blesses), if they aren't obedient to Him then there is no blessing- He may look away. He allowed Israel to be punished. He punished those invaders on the mountains of Israel and will punish all who don't follow His ways. The only argument you can make about following or not following God is not that His ways are bad, none of them are. Its about wanting things our way even if others have to suffer for our choices.
Israel is restored then saved. They will forget their disgrace and live in the land. No one will cause them fear- knowing and truly receiving God and His love will cast out all fear (1 John 4:18).
When He gathers His people He will be sanctified or set apart in the sight of many nations (Jerusalem a light unto the world). Israel will know He is God (be saved), why they went into exile (disobedience). They are all gathered (including those that have died). He is present with them, and His spirit is poured out.
Show yourself Holy Lord.
Our next meeting is scheduled for July 11th, 2010
Ezekiel 37
The Lord took him in spirit to a valley of dry bones. It is interesting that in the message edition Assyria and Babylon are said to have eaten Israel, and spit out bones. In Jeremiah 7:32-8:2 and in Jeremiah 50:17 the references to the destruction of Israel and then Judah are clear.
At the valley he is told to prophesy over the bones, and when he does the bones come together and flesh becomes attached. These bodies are not breathing until he is told to prophecy breath into them. Then they are fully alive. This is an example of the dead in Christ coming to life.
The next section explains what we just read. The bones are the "whole" house of Israel. Does this include the Christians? Christians do become part of the house of Israel. There is also the statement that God will make graves open (rapture like), and He will bring them into the land of Israel. The opening of the graves, and resurrection of the dead will show those resurrected and others that He is Lord.
At this point I'm reminded of the NT story of the resurrection of Lazarus. Jesus heard he was sick, and could have gone to heal him, but instead waited until he had died to act. In the story there was greater awe over a resurrection than there would have been over a healing. The raising of the dead will be an awe inspiring event that gets people's attention.
I think the breath in the bones that reformed bodies is the spirit of God. God will put His spirit in them and place them in their land (Israel- literal? Rapture?). The Lord does this and people know He is God. Since this is somewhat unbelievable in the natural we are reminded that what the Lord speaks He will do, it will happen.
I think this is more than Cyrus releasing the exiles from Babylon, and sending them home. God certainly brought that about as well, but there are things (if meant literally) that hasn't happened yet.
Verse 15 two sticks. Judah and Ephraim joined together one nation. One people after Babylonian exile, but not a nation until 1948. Was 1948 an act of God? an act of man trying to force God's hand? God made it happen, or He allowed it. God is sovereign. God will restore Israel and David will be their king, that description hasn't happened yet. The people will also follow His statutes and ordinances. Looking those up they run from Leviticus 18 to the end.
These are listed after sin and atonement offerings. Hebrews 9:23 states Jesus was the perfect sin offering allowing us back into right relationship with God. The following of His statutes by His restored people is mentioned plenty. These statutes involve sacrifices. Ezekiel describes a temple that hasn't been built yet (clearly, and may be the one of the 1000 year reign), but it has tables where animal sacrifices are prepared. Literal or figurative? Consider the following:
1. Our giving of money or tithing could be considered a sacrifice. It is an active sign of our acknowledgement of who God is. In that time (Ezekiel's) animals were capital (money). Since we still give tithes and offerings, after Jesus, it is plausible that some sacrifices will happen in the millennial reign. As described by Ezekiel in Chapter 40 and beyond.
2. In Leviticus the sin offering and atonement is first, then the following of the statutes and ordinances. Some of the sacrifices were clearly to support our fellow men, the priests, the poor, etc. In the 1000 year reign we will very gladly serve each other putting the needs of others first.
Back to Ezekiel, a few promises -Israel will live in the land given to Jacob with Jesus as Prince forever. God will place them there (after period in heaven?, or instantly in the process of restoring His people?) He will multiply them, and set His sanctuary in their midst (described later). God will dwell with them (in Israel) and nations will know God is Lord when His sanctuary is in their midst forever. Jerusalem a light to the world.
Now IF and I underline IF this happens just prior to the tribulation period, then imagine Jesus (or David) on the throne, His spirit poured out, the dead resurrected and brought forth to live there also.
Would city defenses be necessary?
Would the nation seem to be at peace and seemingly defenseless?
Ezekiel 38
Gog a nation from the North, Nations described include present day Russia, Iran, Ethiopia, and Turkey- all non arabic. Arabic nations will have an anti-christ peace treaty so Israel will feel secure. God will use them to demonstrate He is God.
Verse 8 is interesting- Israel is a land restored from the sword. Can be interpreted a couple ways. restored from the sword = war torn (1948), or restored from the sword = a land where wars don't happen anymore, the people truly follow God, worshiping and relying on Him.
The invaders coming- are they more likely to attack an armed Israel or one that is following the Lord at peace? Kind of hard to imagine, but the power of God is greater than we can imagine. Large numbers are indicated, interestingly it is our new military tactic- overwhelm the enemy. This can mean an attack expecting resistance. The statement that people are living securely- probably has never described current Israel.
The enemy will come like a cloud against a peaceable people living without bars or gates- trying to overwhelm God? Back in 36 the waste cities of Israel will be inhabited and fortified, yet will be without bars and gates? Their intent isn't stated to be annihilation but rather to plunder and spoil- from the affects of famine? Back in Chapter 36 the Lord states in vs 29 and 30 that when Israel is restored He will not allow the disgrace of famine. When the Lord turned His back to Jerusalem in Jeremiah famine soon followed. If restoring Israel and making the statement He is God then famine to the north could occur, while Israel has plenty, making them a clear plunder and spoil target.
It will be a day of plunder when Israel is living securely, and Gog knows it (vs 14)- peace treaty? This invasion has been prophesied for many years by the prophets of Israel (vs 17). Gog will be used to sanctify or set apart God. He will set Himself apart and call attention to Himself through their act of invasion and His response.
His response is said to be earthquakes in Israel (worldwide?- all the people of the earth will feel it). Mountains flattened. The invaders will turn on each other in panic, and fire and brimstone will rain down. This will magnify God, set Him apart, and make Him known in the sight of many nations. This will be the first part of the tribulation period, the first horse of the four in Revelation.
Ezekiel 39
Invasion of the blessed mountains of Israel. Invaders coming to plunder looking for food and cattle. They will fall on the mountains of Israel. The earthquake happens and they turn on each other. Fire falls on the parts their countries where people who didn't come as part of the invasion are. This is a demonstration that the Lord is God, not men with their supposed reasoning and military might. Israel will know He is the Lord- the point they turn to Christ?
The fallen invaders will become plunder for Israel. Interesting - God blesses His people Israel after restoring them, others become jealous and seek to plunder them but in fact end up giving up what they have (that God gave) to Israel. Its all God's - He'll redistribute it as He sees fit. James 4:2 is appropriate here. Instead of deciding to take from Israel they could have repented and asked God to bless them.
It will take 7 months to bury the dead and the plunder will last 7 years. So many dead the birds will eat. Interestingly it is called the Lord's sacrifice for the birds. Remember, He created these men, He desired something better for them, but their choices caused them to have to be sacrificed. So it is a cost of sorts to the Lord that they are slain (His creation destroyed). The sacrifice will be His table that He set for His birds, men don't have to do anything to bring it about.
All nations will see His action and His judgment. The house of Israel will know He is God from that day on.
The nations will realize that even though the history of the Jewish people involved hardship and exile, they are still His people.
God blesses the obedient, although truly obedient people aren't after worldly blessings.
God protects His chosen (not blesses), if they aren't obedient to Him then there is no blessing- He may look away. He allowed Israel to be punished. He punished those invaders on the mountains of Israel and will punish all who don't follow His ways. The only argument you can make about following or not following God is not that His ways are bad, none of them are. Its about wanting things our way even if others have to suffer for our choices.
Israel is restored then saved. They will forget their disgrace and live in the land. No one will cause them fear- knowing and truly receiving God and His love will cast out all fear (1 John 4:18).
When He gathers His people He will be sanctified or set apart in the sight of many nations (Jerusalem a light unto the world). Israel will know He is God (be saved), why they went into exile (disobedience). They are all gathered (including those that have died). He is present with them, and His spirit is poured out.
Show yourself Holy Lord.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Ezekiel 33:21-36 June 20, 2010
There was 7 for Wordlisteners on June 20, 2010. We discussed Ezekiel 33:21 through Ezekiel 36. We also prepared some homemade ice cream. One of the continuing themes that had been discussed also in previous weeks was the similarity between a Judah about to be over-run by Babylon and our world today. A focus on selfishness, a wanting our way - like them. God only has to turn His back on us for calamity.
Come quickly Lord.
My notes are as follows:
Ezekiel was speechless until the day Jerusalem fell, then the Lord told him what the refugees were saying. They could not believe that the Lord let Jerusalem fell, after all He gave Abraham, one man, the land and what about all the people of Jerusalem? They felt deserving. The Lord reminded them through Ezekiel of their transgressions. They weren't obedient, so the Lord will give them to death, which they will not believe until it happens.
The Lord also tells Ezekiel how the people take him. They come and listen but do not heed his words. They are too worried about their own desires. They want their way and not God's. Ezekiel's words from God will come true, and they will know a prophet has been in their presence. All preachers and prophets must realize this, its not about any glory for them personally, but rather getting God's word out. Focusing on messenger rather than the message is not God's way.
Ezekiel 34
A prophecy against the shepherds of Israel-(the leaders of Israel and/or the organized church?). They are in it for themselves, they take care of themselves. The sick are not strengthened, diseased not healed, broken not bound, and scattered not gathered. Rather the shepherds have dominated. Since the shepherds weren't doing what God had appointed them to do the flock was scattered, and became food. The shepherds were concerned with their own gain and not that of others. God will deliver His flock.
God will search out His flock from all the places scattered and bring them to their own land- He will do it. God will gather them and bring them to the mountains of Israel. God will feed them, and it will be good pasture on the mountain heights. He will feed His flock and lead them to rest. God will seek the lost, bring back the scattered bind up the broken- He will take care of them.
The fat and strong He will destroy, they push and want better. There seems to be even amongst God's flock those sheep that place their desires and wants above the needs of others or the common good. Whatever God provides good pasture, they look for greener grass and clearer water. Becoming self focused, and not putting others first. One shepherd will be set over them (King David- it seems), He will make a covenant of peace, and they will live securely. The earth will yield its increase, and they will know the Lord, no one will make them afraid, no famine, no insults from others. God will make them secure, and they will be submitted to His ways and they will feel the security that we all desire by knowing God.
In this chapter we saw what God will do for and to His flock- those that recognize Him and His position and plans. He will search them out and gather them, because their leaders don't take care of them. Within the flock He will deal with selfishness. He will lead them.
Ezekiel 35
In contrast to the last chapter we see what God will do to those who may recognize Him but try to usurp His position, and are opposed to His plans.
The Lord is against Mount Seir (Edom- those who oppose Israel). It will become a desolation, they delivered Israel to the sword at the time of calamity. Since they liked bloodshed, bloodshed will follow them. God gives us the desire of our heart, both good and bad. If we want Him we get closer to Him, if we reject Him He will let us live in a world without Him. Its our choice. Mount Seir will become an everlasting desolation.
The people opposed to God's plans selfishly push their own. They see Him and know about Him but don't act to align themselves with His will. Rather they promote their own agenda. The fallen angels know about God and His plan, but through their pride and arrogance deny God and His plan in favor of their own.
Edom thought the land of Israel was there for them, that they would possess it regardless of what God had said. They thought the land and the people were there for the plunder for them. Focused on things of the world rather than people – not God's way. So they hated when God blessed them with good things and cheered at their misfortunes (when God removed blessing). They even spoke arrogantly against God and His plans. They rejoiced when God made Judah a desolate place, so God will make them a desolation.
He will show that He is God.
Ezekiel 36
A prophecy to the mountains of Israel- God's spoken word concerning them. God had made them a desolation in punishing Israel and Judah for disobedience to Him. Other nations had witnessed this and decided to appropriate the land for themselves. God has previously spoken to make those nations a desolation that decide they can have their own way on earth. So when other nations wanted the mountains of Israel and God said “no” and wouldn't let them have it, then they insulted the land. The insults they used are exactly what they will have to endure. Be careful what you say if it doesn't align with God's way.
He then speaks what will happen to the mountains- it will put forth branches and bear fruit, for His people will soon come. It will be cultivated and sown. Men will be multiplied on it (God says), all the cities inhabited and waste places rebuilt. Once inhabited the Lord will bless the inhabitants, its an inheritance to the people of Israel.
The mountains have a bad reputation of bereaving those that live there of children. God rebukes this saying- it won't happen again. Furthermore the mountains will have no disgrace.
An explanation- the sons of Israel living in the land defiled it. God poured out His wrath on them and rather than accept their own part in it they blamed the land (mountains). God scattered them for their deeds and yet as humans we like to look for reasons that don't involve our wickedness. So in exile these people had come from God's land, and the other nations knew it. So the land got the bad reputation and not the deeds of the people in the land.
The title in this section is that the mountains of Israel will be blessed. The first thing it says is that God doesn't act for our sake, but for the sake of His Holy (sacred) name which Israel has profaned (desecrated)- they felt they weren't to blame. No matter how badly we treat each other, and its getting pretty bad, its about God and His name. The more we profane God and His name the more likely we will treat each other badly. For it is God and His Spirit in place that makes life have any goodness it does. The Lord will vindicate His Holy name, by showing Himself Holy in the sight of all.
How? He will start by taking Israel (Jews and Christians?) from the nations, gathering them from all lands and bringing them into their own land (promised to them). A glimpse of this is happening, but its not complete.
He will then cleanse them (us) with water, and put a new spirit and heart in them, which will cause us to walk in His statutes and ordinances. This is sort of what happens when we accept Christ. It goes further to say we'll live in the land and be His people.
He will then bless the crops- no famine, other nations may however experience it.
We will remember our past deeds and loathe ourselves. We will be ashamed of our ways. Having a knowledge of them and being grateful for His better ways. He will not do this for us, but rather to show Himself. On a "day" that He cleanses us from our iniquity - on that day he will cause the cities to be inhabited and waste places rebuilt (sounds like a sudden influx of people).
Formerly desolate land will be cultivated, and all will see it. The land will become like a garden of Eden, and waste, desolate and ruined cities will be inhabited and fortified. Now when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem the towns were made desolate, so that has happened, but it could happen again.
This will be a sign for the nations around that He is the Lord. A witness for the world- sounds like what some call a "prosperity gospel" in that the Lord will bless His people with crops and abundance while others (that don't follow Him- by their own choice) may experience famine. He spoke it, it will happen.
Israel will then increase like a flock, the waste cities will be filled with flocks of men.
God doesn't act for our sake but only for His name- we humans certainly aren't worthy or deserving of any kindness. God freely gives it out of Himself to show that He is the ONLY reason to do anything.
When He says He will bless the crops and there be no famine, but other nations may experience it- this sounds pre-millennial reign.
We will live in the land and be His people as a witness to nations.
Come quickly Lord.
My notes are as follows:
Ezekiel was speechless until the day Jerusalem fell, then the Lord told him what the refugees were saying. They could not believe that the Lord let Jerusalem fell, after all He gave Abraham, one man, the land and what about all the people of Jerusalem? They felt deserving. The Lord reminded them through Ezekiel of their transgressions. They weren't obedient, so the Lord will give them to death, which they will not believe until it happens.
The Lord also tells Ezekiel how the people take him. They come and listen but do not heed his words. They are too worried about their own desires. They want their way and not God's. Ezekiel's words from God will come true, and they will know a prophet has been in their presence. All preachers and prophets must realize this, its not about any glory for them personally, but rather getting God's word out. Focusing on messenger rather than the message is not God's way.
Ezekiel 34
A prophecy against the shepherds of Israel-(the leaders of Israel and/or the organized church?). They are in it for themselves, they take care of themselves. The sick are not strengthened, diseased not healed, broken not bound, and scattered not gathered. Rather the shepherds have dominated. Since the shepherds weren't doing what God had appointed them to do the flock was scattered, and became food. The shepherds were concerned with their own gain and not that of others. God will deliver His flock.
God will search out His flock from all the places scattered and bring them to their own land- He will do it. God will gather them and bring them to the mountains of Israel. God will feed them, and it will be good pasture on the mountain heights. He will feed His flock and lead them to rest. God will seek the lost, bring back the scattered bind up the broken- He will take care of them.
The fat and strong He will destroy, they push and want better. There seems to be even amongst God's flock those sheep that place their desires and wants above the needs of others or the common good. Whatever God provides good pasture, they look for greener grass and clearer water. Becoming self focused, and not putting others first. One shepherd will be set over them (King David- it seems), He will make a covenant of peace, and they will live securely. The earth will yield its increase, and they will know the Lord, no one will make them afraid, no famine, no insults from others. God will make them secure, and they will be submitted to His ways and they will feel the security that we all desire by knowing God.
In this chapter we saw what God will do for and to His flock- those that recognize Him and His position and plans. He will search them out and gather them, because their leaders don't take care of them. Within the flock He will deal with selfishness. He will lead them.
Ezekiel 35
In contrast to the last chapter we see what God will do to those who may recognize Him but try to usurp His position, and are opposed to His plans.
The Lord is against Mount Seir (Edom- those who oppose Israel). It will become a desolation, they delivered Israel to the sword at the time of calamity. Since they liked bloodshed, bloodshed will follow them. God gives us the desire of our heart, both good and bad. If we want Him we get closer to Him, if we reject Him He will let us live in a world without Him. Its our choice. Mount Seir will become an everlasting desolation.
The people opposed to God's plans selfishly push their own. They see Him and know about Him but don't act to align themselves with His will. Rather they promote their own agenda. The fallen angels know about God and His plan, but through their pride and arrogance deny God and His plan in favor of their own.
Edom thought the land of Israel was there for them, that they would possess it regardless of what God had said. They thought the land and the people were there for the plunder for them. Focused on things of the world rather than people – not God's way. So they hated when God blessed them with good things and cheered at their misfortunes (when God removed blessing). They even spoke arrogantly against God and His plans. They rejoiced when God made Judah a desolate place, so God will make them a desolation.
He will show that He is God.
Ezekiel 36
A prophecy to the mountains of Israel- God's spoken word concerning them. God had made them a desolation in punishing Israel and Judah for disobedience to Him. Other nations had witnessed this and decided to appropriate the land for themselves. God has previously spoken to make those nations a desolation that decide they can have their own way on earth. So when other nations wanted the mountains of Israel and God said “no” and wouldn't let them have it, then they insulted the land. The insults they used are exactly what they will have to endure. Be careful what you say if it doesn't align with God's way.
He then speaks what will happen to the mountains- it will put forth branches and bear fruit, for His people will soon come. It will be cultivated and sown. Men will be multiplied on it (God says), all the cities inhabited and waste places rebuilt. Once inhabited the Lord will bless the inhabitants, its an inheritance to the people of Israel.
The mountains have a bad reputation of bereaving those that live there of children. God rebukes this saying- it won't happen again. Furthermore the mountains will have no disgrace.
An explanation- the sons of Israel living in the land defiled it. God poured out His wrath on them and rather than accept their own part in it they blamed the land (mountains). God scattered them for their deeds and yet as humans we like to look for reasons that don't involve our wickedness. So in exile these people had come from God's land, and the other nations knew it. So the land got the bad reputation and not the deeds of the people in the land.
The title in this section is that the mountains of Israel will be blessed. The first thing it says is that God doesn't act for our sake, but for the sake of His Holy (sacred) name which Israel has profaned (desecrated)- they felt they weren't to blame. No matter how badly we treat each other, and its getting pretty bad, its about God and His name. The more we profane God and His name the more likely we will treat each other badly. For it is God and His Spirit in place that makes life have any goodness it does. The Lord will vindicate His Holy name, by showing Himself Holy in the sight of all.
How? He will start by taking Israel (Jews and Christians?) from the nations, gathering them from all lands and bringing them into their own land (promised to them). A glimpse of this is happening, but its not complete.
He will then cleanse them (us) with water, and put a new spirit and heart in them, which will cause us to walk in His statutes and ordinances. This is sort of what happens when we accept Christ. It goes further to say we'll live in the land and be His people.
He will then bless the crops- no famine, other nations may however experience it.
We will remember our past deeds and loathe ourselves. We will be ashamed of our ways. Having a knowledge of them and being grateful for His better ways. He will not do this for us, but rather to show Himself. On a "day" that He cleanses us from our iniquity - on that day he will cause the cities to be inhabited and waste places rebuilt (sounds like a sudden influx of people).
Formerly desolate land will be cultivated, and all will see it. The land will become like a garden of Eden, and waste, desolate and ruined cities will be inhabited and fortified. Now when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem the towns were made desolate, so that has happened, but it could happen again.
This will be a sign for the nations around that He is the Lord. A witness for the world- sounds like what some call a "prosperity gospel" in that the Lord will bless His people with crops and abundance while others (that don't follow Him- by their own choice) may experience famine. He spoke it, it will happen.
Israel will then increase like a flock, the waste cities will be filled with flocks of men.
God doesn't act for our sake but only for His name- we humans certainly aren't worthy or deserving of any kindness. God freely gives it out of Himself to show that He is the ONLY reason to do anything.
When He says He will bless the crops and there be no famine, but other nations may experience it- this sounds pre-millennial reign.
We will live in the land and be His people as a witness to nations.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Wordlisteners June 13,2010 Ezekiel 30-33:20
We had seven for wordlisteners. Generally the discussion was about how much like present times was all the prophesy of God toward Pharaoh and Assyria and ultimately Israel. If we take our sights off of God then we are in trouble. God merely ignoring us will make our lives miserable.
Our next meeting is next week -June 20
Here are my notes:
Ezekiel 30
Egypt is to be destroyed, the Lord is prophesying it ahead of time, because it is unbelievable. When it happens they'll know He is God. End times are like that looking at it in the natural, it seems so far fetched. A fetching away, Jesus coming to earth to establish His kingdom, they can be hard to believe in light of what we have experienced, but it will happen and when it does we'll know that God said it. Then He brought it to pass.
Ethiopia will be included and it will happen at the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. Then drought and desolation. He is not doing it from meanness, but rather He is pouring out His wrath because of their actions (our). Men slain and women taken into captivity.
The arm of the Egyptian king will be broken, which means the Egyptians will be powerless to prevent the onslaught of the Babylonians. The Lord is using the Babylonians to execute His judgments, and the Egyptians will be scattered. The scattering will be so unbelievable that they will know the Lord is God. Their pride as being the premier kingdom, and it was at one time will be reduced to those scattered and living in captivity- completely ignored by God (Oswald Chambers). God will show who He is.
Ezekiel 31
Pharaoh is warned of Assyria's fate. A nation built by God, magnificent and unmatched by the cedars in God's garden. The trees of Eden were jealous. But the heart of Assyria became haughty (prideful) so the Lord gave it to another nation to be destroyed. Pride and haughtiness is something we all deal with. We often will say something about our doing this or that and not acknowledge God's blessing on our lives. Or we get so sure of our plans that we neglect that God is the one in control, and our plans only happen if He allows them. Elevating ourselves and forgetting God is wickedness and He will deal with it.
Is this another facet of the teaching of Job? Bad things happening to us doesn't mean we are bad, they may be tests. Forgetting God or elevating ourselves above Him means we will be ignored by God. He will remove His favor, and that is all He has to do, its terribly fearful to think of those that deny God and press against His goads, but then expect the attributes of following God to still apply.
Assyria will be humbled for their pride, and so will Egypt. Nothing of any greatness (that God has given) will last unless God says so.
In leaving a former position I left things I felt would help the new person. The person I replaced at the new job did the same. In both cases more was left than would be used, so in these examples it is clear that our legacy or pride creeps in. Its very easy to become prideful.
Ezekiel 32
Now Pharaoh and Egypt will be judged for their pride, or maybe just the blessings removed. Great death and destruction is in store. Darkness in the land. Other kings will be fearful, if great Egypt can fall- what about them? This is not unlike us looking up to another – a Christian we deeply respect. Then we find out they aren't perfect, and none are, and we get crushed. In looking at them we take our eyes off of God. In looking at Egypt the nations became fearful of their security. God brings about the true security, and the people of Judah forgot that, they looked to Egypt.
Egypt is going to Sheol to join Assyria and Elam. Dead among the uncircumcised-those not chosen of God. Meshech Tubal and Edom, and the Sidonians. Not a place of honor, but a place where the mighty end up, those that won't bow their will to God. Those who want things their way. Slain by the sword of those that God wields.
Ezekiel 33
A watchman is appointed to warn the people. He is responsible for warning the people, the choice they make when they hear the warning is their own. God will make sure that His intentions are known such that people will have to make a choice about His way (life) or their way (death).
As for the people appointed to inform of God's message, they also have a choice. These are the prophets, they speak the message from God. These messengers can be false prophets or true prophets. A true prophet (according to Oswald Chambers) stood for the condemnation of people, whereas a false prophet speaks of their exoneration. It comes down to the condition of the human heart if an appointed person thinks there is any good there he is false. The true prophet knows the true condition of man's heart. Jonah comes to mind, he prophesied the destruction of Ninevah, which didn't happen because of true repentance and God's mercy. Yet he wasn't a false prophet because he spoke to the true condition of men's heart – deserving destruction.
As messengers we are appointed to speak of the true condition of the hearts of men. Any good we think we see should be a praise to God that He is working in that person or nation. It does not change their heart condition, it is rather a point of surrender they have personally chosen to make to God and His light is shining through. To say there is good in a man's heart is also saying there are areas that he/she doesn't have to choose to submit to God's will rather than self. Clearly false. Our desires need to align with the desires of God, when they do our prayers are assured answers.
Ezekiel was appointed a watchman, and he was submitted to God to the point that he faithfully did what God asked. What he was asked to do was warn people of their wickedness. Only in admitting their wickedness can there be true repentance. He was given a message for the people, and he gave it to them. To have a message from God and not proclaim it is disobedience, and a sign of not being submitted to God, therefore the punishment due the wicked is deserved.
The message has to get out there, and God will find those that will put it out there. It still comes down to personal choice – a following of God's ways or self. Once the message is out there a turning to God from self is possible (repentance). When someone does repent which is a change in life direction, God is ready to offer mercy and life. He takes no pleasure in the death of any. He initiates it with us all and we have to choose to respond.
Its not a once and done proposition though, God will continue to initiate to us by showing us other areas where we haven't submitted or haven't shown the actions of submission to God. He wants us completely submitted. Submitting to Him in some areas (showing righteousness) but then not others is really saying to Him that we aren't fully submitted. Therefore we are deserving of death. On the other hand, at any point turning from wickedness to His way puts us on the path of life. The turning from wickedness is not just a mind thing or verbal it requires actions or sacrifice of self – making amends or restitution.
As selfish people this continual growth seems not fair, we want to settle it once and for all. If we have fully submitted to God it is settled once and for all. If we want to gain life and yet hold onto self, then it is a sign that we haven't settled it. God is ready even when we're not. He wants it settled once and for all the choice is ours, do we? His sacrifice was once and accounts for all, our commitment needs to be similar.
Our next meeting is next week -June 20
Here are my notes:
Ezekiel 30
Egypt is to be destroyed, the Lord is prophesying it ahead of time, because it is unbelievable. When it happens they'll know He is God. End times are like that looking at it in the natural, it seems so far fetched. A fetching away, Jesus coming to earth to establish His kingdom, they can be hard to believe in light of what we have experienced, but it will happen and when it does we'll know that God said it. Then He brought it to pass.
Ethiopia will be included and it will happen at the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. Then drought and desolation. He is not doing it from meanness, but rather He is pouring out His wrath because of their actions (our). Men slain and women taken into captivity.
The arm of the Egyptian king will be broken, which means the Egyptians will be powerless to prevent the onslaught of the Babylonians. The Lord is using the Babylonians to execute His judgments, and the Egyptians will be scattered. The scattering will be so unbelievable that they will know the Lord is God. Their pride as being the premier kingdom, and it was at one time will be reduced to those scattered and living in captivity- completely ignored by God (Oswald Chambers). God will show who He is.
Ezekiel 31
Pharaoh is warned of Assyria's fate. A nation built by God, magnificent and unmatched by the cedars in God's garden. The trees of Eden were jealous. But the heart of Assyria became haughty (prideful) so the Lord gave it to another nation to be destroyed. Pride and haughtiness is something we all deal with. We often will say something about our doing this or that and not acknowledge God's blessing on our lives. Or we get so sure of our plans that we neglect that God is the one in control, and our plans only happen if He allows them. Elevating ourselves and forgetting God is wickedness and He will deal with it.
Is this another facet of the teaching of Job? Bad things happening to us doesn't mean we are bad, they may be tests. Forgetting God or elevating ourselves above Him means we will be ignored by God. He will remove His favor, and that is all He has to do, its terribly fearful to think of those that deny God and press against His goads, but then expect the attributes of following God to still apply.
Assyria will be humbled for their pride, and so will Egypt. Nothing of any greatness (that God has given) will last unless God says so.
In leaving a former position I left things I felt would help the new person. The person I replaced at the new job did the same. In both cases more was left than would be used, so in these examples it is clear that our legacy or pride creeps in. Its very easy to become prideful.
Ezekiel 32
Now Pharaoh and Egypt will be judged for their pride, or maybe just the blessings removed. Great death and destruction is in store. Darkness in the land. Other kings will be fearful, if great Egypt can fall- what about them? This is not unlike us looking up to another – a Christian we deeply respect. Then we find out they aren't perfect, and none are, and we get crushed. In looking at them we take our eyes off of God. In looking at Egypt the nations became fearful of their security. God brings about the true security, and the people of Judah forgot that, they looked to Egypt.
Egypt is going to Sheol to join Assyria and Elam. Dead among the uncircumcised-those not chosen of God. Meshech Tubal and Edom, and the Sidonians. Not a place of honor, but a place where the mighty end up, those that won't bow their will to God. Those who want things their way. Slain by the sword of those that God wields.
Ezekiel 33
A watchman is appointed to warn the people. He is responsible for warning the people, the choice they make when they hear the warning is their own. God will make sure that His intentions are known such that people will have to make a choice about His way (life) or their way (death).
As for the people appointed to inform of God's message, they also have a choice. These are the prophets, they speak the message from God. These messengers can be false prophets or true prophets. A true prophet (according to Oswald Chambers) stood for the condemnation of people, whereas a false prophet speaks of their exoneration. It comes down to the condition of the human heart if an appointed person thinks there is any good there he is false. The true prophet knows the true condition of man's heart. Jonah comes to mind, he prophesied the destruction of Ninevah, which didn't happen because of true repentance and God's mercy. Yet he wasn't a false prophet because he spoke to the true condition of men's heart – deserving destruction.
As messengers we are appointed to speak of the true condition of the hearts of men. Any good we think we see should be a praise to God that He is working in that person or nation. It does not change their heart condition, it is rather a point of surrender they have personally chosen to make to God and His light is shining through. To say there is good in a man's heart is also saying there are areas that he/she doesn't have to choose to submit to God's will rather than self. Clearly false. Our desires need to align with the desires of God, when they do our prayers are assured answers.
Ezekiel was appointed a watchman, and he was submitted to God to the point that he faithfully did what God asked. What he was asked to do was warn people of their wickedness. Only in admitting their wickedness can there be true repentance. He was given a message for the people, and he gave it to them. To have a message from God and not proclaim it is disobedience, and a sign of not being submitted to God, therefore the punishment due the wicked is deserved.
The message has to get out there, and God will find those that will put it out there. It still comes down to personal choice – a following of God's ways or self. Once the message is out there a turning to God from self is possible (repentance). When someone does repent which is a change in life direction, God is ready to offer mercy and life. He takes no pleasure in the death of any. He initiates it with us all and we have to choose to respond.
Its not a once and done proposition though, God will continue to initiate to us by showing us other areas where we haven't submitted or haven't shown the actions of submission to God. He wants us completely submitted. Submitting to Him in some areas (showing righteousness) but then not others is really saying to Him that we aren't fully submitted. Therefore we are deserving of death. On the other hand, at any point turning from wickedness to His way puts us on the path of life. The turning from wickedness is not just a mind thing or verbal it requires actions or sacrifice of self – making amends or restitution.
As selfish people this continual growth seems not fair, we want to settle it once and for all. If we have fully submitted to God it is settled once and for all. If we want to gain life and yet hold onto self, then it is a sign that we haven't settled it. God is ready even when we're not. He wants it settled once and for all the choice is ours, do we? His sacrifice was once and accounts for all, our commitment needs to be similar.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Wordlisteners May 30, 2010 Ezekiel 25-29
There were four for Wordlisteners, and our discussions involved the fact that we are prideful individuals and selfish, just like these nations that have God's judgments pronounced against them in these chapters. Furthermore we are me focused, instead of God focused, and we need to work to get self "out of the way" Its interesting the subtle differences between the prophecies, and how much our society is like the one of Tyre.
God's heart and lessons for us- don't revel in other's misfortunes. Don't deny that God's setting apart a people to himself has no meaning regardless of what you see, and certainly don't make an joyful effort to prosper because of someone's misfortune.
Here are my notes from Ezekiel 25-29.
Ezekiel 25
A prophesy toward Ammon - a warning from God, to a people He didn't choose, but made, allowing them to turn in right relationship to Him. They were glad God profaned His sanctuary allowing it to be destroyed, so God will give them to their enemies. He is warning them ahead of time, so when it happens (which they probably didn't think it would) they would know He is God. God will destroy them.
This was a warning to a specific people at a specific time, but God has let it endure. For the history lesson, or is there something in there for us today. Ammon was glad that God allowed His temple to be profaned and His nation made desolate. There are people today that are glad when bad things happen to God's people. Both Israel and the Church, and this warning endures for them as well. God is God and His desires will happen, nobody should be happy at the misfortune of others.
Now we deal with Moab. which said the house of Judah is like all nations. Now Judah wanted to be like other nations, they wanted a king, they ultimately worshiped idols, and became very much like other nations. However they were still set apart by God for His purposes, so in saying they were other nations Moab was denying that God had set them apart. Again for that day, but how does it apply to us. Ever heard or said that Christians are like everyone else? In a sense we are but God has placed a call on our lives that we responded to, so we are not truly like everyone else. We face the same issues, we have the same temptations, we certainly struggle, but God has marked us. Its important to remember that God's offer is for all, He wants to mark everyone because it is His creation and he is big enough to do so.
Now Edom which saw a weakened Israel and acted against them taking vengeance. A warning to a specific people at a specific time, but saved for us. How does it apply? God was going to use His people to execute His vengeance. In the same way when people take advantage of Israel or Christians due to weakness, they are opening themselves up and will realize that one day God will have the final say through Israel and the Christians.
Philistia acted in revenge on a weakened Israel with scorn of soul and to destroy with enmity (hostility). This applied then but also now to people actively hostile to Israel and Christians. God Himself will protect them and He Himself will execute His vengeance.
All of these rebukes is God saying that He alone has the final say, and it will be His way.
Ezekiel 26
Now for the fault of a city. Tyre was looking to take advantage of Israel's misfortune. They evidently felt they would benefit from Israel's decline. They controlled sea trade, and Jerusalem controlled the caravan routes, with Jerusalem out of the way they felt their profit would increase. They were an alternative. People who are out to destroy the things of God (Jerusalem is His footstool) offer alternatives, and consider that their belief, way or whatever will strengthen as the Christian or Israel weakens. However man cannot take into account every facet of what he thinks he knows, and eventually great anger will be stirred. God will bring up many nations against Tyre, just as He will allow those with alternatives to His plans face the adversity that they will cause.
When you deny the Higher Power of God you unleash selfishness which leads to evil. Historically Tyre was destroyed and never rebuilt. It was really two cities, one part on the mainland and one part on an island. Nebuchadnezzar had the land part under siege 15 years, it was getting resupplied form the sea, and from trade. Once it did fall he destroyed it. However he couldn't destroy the Island part. When Alexander the Great conquered it, he took the rubble from the land part of the city and built a bridge to the island part, destroying it completely. So it did take many waves of people, and it was never rebuilt.
Again rejoicing over another's misfortune, or considering gain from the misfortune of others is not what God wants for us His people. He left this chapter as a warning for us. I don't know how many days or months it took Alexander to build the bridge, but the inhabitants knew their days were numbered, fear and trembling I'm sure happened, but no mention of repentance.
Ezekiel 27
A lament for Tyre. A description of a far reaching influential society that was wealthy from trade. For their time they had a global economy with a focus on goods and wealth- a lot like today. Yet God is not given credit, or even mentioned, its all about them. A great economic juggernaut will be destroyed and people will cry, God said so, it doesn't fit His plans.
Ezekiel 28
The king of Tyre thought he was god, due to his power and influence. Through wisdom and understanding this empire was built, and the accumulation of goods and things brought about an elevation in their mind and heart that they were god. Through his own wit and wisdom he forgot his place, and when facing death, will he repent and acknowledge God?
God had placed Tyre there and their leaders. He gave them their wisdom that led to their riches. God blessed them until it went to their head that they didn't need God. The abundance of trade, busyness of accomplishment, caused them to come to believe wrongly and exalt their own success. Since they didn't acknowledge God they were cast down by Him. To cease to be forever. Some of the descriptions of the king of Tyre apply to Satan, he was in Eden, an anointed cherub with access to God. Satan beauty led to pride in the same way the Tyre's success led to pride and denial of God.
Sidon, God will be glorified in Sidon's midst. In Ezek 27:8 the rowers for Tyre lived in Sidon. So the two were intertwined, the rowers did all the work and Sidon's fate was tied to Tyre's. The residents of Sidon as rowers definitely contributed to the success that led to Tyre's down fall.
All the nations surrounding Israel have been mentioned with the great world power Tyre being last. The Lord will gather His people and will manifest His holiness in His people in the sight of the nations and they will live in the land they were given. They will live securely while the Lord executes judgments on those that scorn His people. A final chance to realize and confess that Jesus is Lord.
Ezekiel 29
A prophesy against the nation of Egypt. A prideful people who claimed to have made the Nile. Completely ridiculous but pride can lead to absurdity. God will judge Egypt. Judah when faced with an invading Babylon, after the king of Judah had sworn allegiance to Babylon, made a treaty or sought protection against Babylon instead of God. So here is judgment against anything we might turn to instead of God for protection. Egypt was powerless to protect Judah against Babylon, so they are referred to a staff made of reed with no strength. In reality Egypt was overthrown, so they couldn't even protect themselves.
Desolate for forty years and then restored to a status of a lesser nation, not one that any country would have enough confidence in their military might to seek protection again.
Nebuchadnezzar had the mainland part of Tyre under siege 15 years. They held out so long because the island part could provide goods and supplies, but they also evidently evacuated anything that would be regarded as plunder. So Babylon partially destroyed Tyre, but received no plunder (or minimal). So God sends them to Egypt to overthrow it and fulfill this prophecy of Ezekiel. It also gave the army plunder or wages.
God's heart and lessons for us- don't revel in other's misfortunes. Don't deny that God's setting apart a people to himself has no meaning regardless of what you see, and certainly don't make an joyful effort to prosper because of someone's misfortune.
Here are my notes from Ezekiel 25-29.
Ezekiel 25
A prophesy toward Ammon - a warning from God, to a people He didn't choose, but made, allowing them to turn in right relationship to Him. They were glad God profaned His sanctuary allowing it to be destroyed, so God will give them to their enemies. He is warning them ahead of time, so when it happens (which they probably didn't think it would) they would know He is God. God will destroy them.
This was a warning to a specific people at a specific time, but God has let it endure. For the history lesson, or is there something in there for us today. Ammon was glad that God allowed His temple to be profaned and His nation made desolate. There are people today that are glad when bad things happen to God's people. Both Israel and the Church, and this warning endures for them as well. God is God and His desires will happen, nobody should be happy at the misfortune of others.
Now we deal with Moab. which said the house of Judah is like all nations. Now Judah wanted to be like other nations, they wanted a king, they ultimately worshiped idols, and became very much like other nations. However they were still set apart by God for His purposes, so in saying they were other nations Moab was denying that God had set them apart. Again for that day, but how does it apply to us. Ever heard or said that Christians are like everyone else? In a sense we are but God has placed a call on our lives that we responded to, so we are not truly like everyone else. We face the same issues, we have the same temptations, we certainly struggle, but God has marked us. Its important to remember that God's offer is for all, He wants to mark everyone because it is His creation and he is big enough to do so.
Now Edom which saw a weakened Israel and acted against them taking vengeance. A warning to a specific people at a specific time, but saved for us. How does it apply? God was going to use His people to execute His vengeance. In the same way when people take advantage of Israel or Christians due to weakness, they are opening themselves up and will realize that one day God will have the final say through Israel and the Christians.
Philistia acted in revenge on a weakened Israel with scorn of soul and to destroy with enmity (hostility). This applied then but also now to people actively hostile to Israel and Christians. God Himself will protect them and He Himself will execute His vengeance.
All of these rebukes is God saying that He alone has the final say, and it will be His way.
Ezekiel 26
Now for the fault of a city. Tyre was looking to take advantage of Israel's misfortune. They evidently felt they would benefit from Israel's decline. They controlled sea trade, and Jerusalem controlled the caravan routes, with Jerusalem out of the way they felt their profit would increase. They were an alternative. People who are out to destroy the things of God (Jerusalem is His footstool) offer alternatives, and consider that their belief, way or whatever will strengthen as the Christian or Israel weakens. However man cannot take into account every facet of what he thinks he knows, and eventually great anger will be stirred. God will bring up many nations against Tyre, just as He will allow those with alternatives to His plans face the adversity that they will cause.
When you deny the Higher Power of God you unleash selfishness which leads to evil. Historically Tyre was destroyed and never rebuilt. It was really two cities, one part on the mainland and one part on an island. Nebuchadnezzar had the land part under siege 15 years, it was getting resupplied form the sea, and from trade. Once it did fall he destroyed it. However he couldn't destroy the Island part. When Alexander the Great conquered it, he took the rubble from the land part of the city and built a bridge to the island part, destroying it completely. So it did take many waves of people, and it was never rebuilt.
Again rejoicing over another's misfortune, or considering gain from the misfortune of others is not what God wants for us His people. He left this chapter as a warning for us. I don't know how many days or months it took Alexander to build the bridge, but the inhabitants knew their days were numbered, fear and trembling I'm sure happened, but no mention of repentance.
Ezekiel 27
A lament for Tyre. A description of a far reaching influential society that was wealthy from trade. For their time they had a global economy with a focus on goods and wealth- a lot like today. Yet God is not given credit, or even mentioned, its all about them. A great economic juggernaut will be destroyed and people will cry, God said so, it doesn't fit His plans.
Ezekiel 28
The king of Tyre thought he was god, due to his power and influence. Through wisdom and understanding this empire was built, and the accumulation of goods and things brought about an elevation in their mind and heart that they were god. Through his own wit and wisdom he forgot his place, and when facing death, will he repent and acknowledge God?
God had placed Tyre there and their leaders. He gave them their wisdom that led to their riches. God blessed them until it went to their head that they didn't need God. The abundance of trade, busyness of accomplishment, caused them to come to believe wrongly and exalt their own success. Since they didn't acknowledge God they were cast down by Him. To cease to be forever. Some of the descriptions of the king of Tyre apply to Satan, he was in Eden, an anointed cherub with access to God. Satan beauty led to pride in the same way the Tyre's success led to pride and denial of God.
Sidon, God will be glorified in Sidon's midst. In Ezek 27:8 the rowers for Tyre lived in Sidon. So the two were intertwined, the rowers did all the work and Sidon's fate was tied to Tyre's. The residents of Sidon as rowers definitely contributed to the success that led to Tyre's down fall.
All the nations surrounding Israel have been mentioned with the great world power Tyre being last. The Lord will gather His people and will manifest His holiness in His people in the sight of the nations and they will live in the land they were given. They will live securely while the Lord executes judgments on those that scorn His people. A final chance to realize and confess that Jesus is Lord.
Ezekiel 29
A prophesy against the nation of Egypt. A prideful people who claimed to have made the Nile. Completely ridiculous but pride can lead to absurdity. God will judge Egypt. Judah when faced with an invading Babylon, after the king of Judah had sworn allegiance to Babylon, made a treaty or sought protection against Babylon instead of God. So here is judgment against anything we might turn to instead of God for protection. Egypt was powerless to protect Judah against Babylon, so they are referred to a staff made of reed with no strength. In reality Egypt was overthrown, so they couldn't even protect themselves.
Desolate for forty years and then restored to a status of a lesser nation, not one that any country would have enough confidence in their military might to seek protection again.
Nebuchadnezzar had the mainland part of Tyre under siege 15 years. They held out so long because the island part could provide goods and supplies, but they also evidently evacuated anything that would be regarded as plunder. So Babylon partially destroyed Tyre, but received no plunder (or minimal). So God sends them to Egypt to overthrow it and fulfill this prophecy of Ezekiel. It also gave the army plunder or wages.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Wordlisteners May 23, 2010 Ezekiel 23 and 24
There was three for Wordlisteners, but the discussion went very well.
Ezekiel 23
Now for a story comparing the actions of Judah (Jerusalem) and Israel (Samaria) as if they were sisters and humans rather than nations. God is truly and remarkably at many levels, He treats us all individually but also collectively as nations we possess somewhat human characteristics. Israel and Judah let Egypt do what they wanted by giving themselves to Egypt.
Samaria (Israel) – Assyrians became their focus not God. Assyrians invaded and became the focus rather than God. She the nation took up their idols. They seemingly attributed the Assyrian power to their idols rather than that God allowed it.
What idols do we attribute success to? College education, fitness, certain car, certain job, certain vacation. People become very passionate about their idols and often lose focus as to what is important. Idols also feed our self centeredness we think we (note the reference to self) will have a better life if we (again) have that thing. We should be pursuing education, careers in an effort not to be a burden on others, rather than what we get out of it. The only happiness in life is in a relationship with God and serving Him. Otherwise at some point there will be regret, a feeling an opportunity was missed.
God gave Samaria what they wanted, more of the Assyrians, which they focused on rather than the true God and it destroyed their country. Caused children to be murdered. Is it fair that God lets children die? Seemingly because of the actions of others. This is a hard thing to understand, but God is about justice and righteousness, and HE ALONE can make things like the death of a child fair. We cannot, and we feel powerless often getting angry, but it shows us our position- which is that we are not God. The Samarians seemingly wanted less of God so He gave them what they wanted, and look where it led. Another example in the Bible that God knows what is best for us and we really don't.
Judah watched the actions of Samaria, and didn't learn from them. We ask how this is possible, and yet how many different ways have we tried the same thing, getting an undesirable result, and yet insist this time it will be different. We are “special” we think- it will work for us but not for them- pride I'm afraid is elevating us falsely. How many of us made the same decisions (which turned out badly) that an older sibling did? How many of our kids walk down the same path that we tried all those years ago with results we aren't content with? In all this God is our father, watching yet another child make the same mistakes an older sibling did, wondering why they didn't learn, wondering how they can be so blind to reality.
Judah surpassed Samaria in turning away from God, she turned away from God with the Assyrians and the Babylonians and still wasn't satisfied. Apart from a relationship with God there is no satisfaction. Having a relationship with God (committing to it) and then turning away for relationship with someone/something else is adultery.
God wants relationship but its not demanded, there would be no relationship if He made us, He only then makes the offer. Judah rejected Him so He turned away. When God turns away from you in your life watch out. The good things are from God, if He turns, the good things go with Him.
Judah seemingly got what she wanted (God out of the picture), and it went to her head, she now thought she was God and exercised what she thought was now her privilege to do anything. When we do what we want apart from God, people will get hurt, and there doesn't seem to be an exception in the Bible. Those that Judah hurt possibly by trying to break off the relationship, came back to hurt Judah. Isn't that our natural response when we are hurt, it is to strike back (its not of God, but of the flesh). Since the countries Judah turned from God for were not Godly themselves they acted in the flesh- hurting Judah if Judah hurt them. If we live in a “Me” or “I” frame of mind very long we will get hurt by the actions of others.
God had almost reached the point of abandoning Judah, because of her wanting her way. She did what Samaria had tried and gotten the same result. Now she had to drink the consequences. Consequences from turning from God, and denying Him, and focusing on self. Ezekiel was to point out the actions of Judah and Samaria. Show them their obscenities. A turning from God, a not putting God first – considering Him Holy. They sought answers from men and not God.
When we seek answers from men we often polish our side of the information. Ever heard of a couple in a dispute, and only hearing one side? You just can't believe the other person can be “that way”. Consider you are seeing the polish, we all have our faults and shortcomings, we all have weaknesses we sometimes act upon. Going to God? We can't hide anything from Him, we can't polish the information and spin it in our favor, He knows us. He might show us our contribution to the issue and its scary to consider “innocent us” might have some responsibility. We might have to change and admit we're not better than the other person(s) involved. Are we better than others? Does God think so? If we have responsibility in the issue shouldn't we want to change and do our part to fix it? Does God think so?
Ezekiel 24
The parable of the boiling pot. Babylon has laid siege to Jerusalem, all the people (who might think they are special, different or better) are all in the pot together. A pot that will be boiled (adversity). Piece by piece removed without choice. Choices were made, God's plan and ways were not followed and therefore bad things happened, and God had become wearied by the people (His people). He wants the filthiness to be melted away, trials drive people to God.
We want our own way until there is trouble, and then we run to God. God wants us to avoid the unpleasantness, and yet we reject His offer. He would cleanse us if we will let Him. Now after wearying Him His wrath must be endured - if that is possible unless He relents. He will judge and will do so fairly- none of us want that.
Ezekiel's wife died as an example of something we often set our sights on rather than God. A prime one being a relationship in the world. The temple had become a similar focus of the people, rather than a focus on God. They felt God would protect His temple and thus them, and felt secure, but it was a false sense of security. God wants our focus to be on Him. Not the things of Him, not the things He has given us, but Him alone. Over time He brings us to this point of a focus on Him alone, when we are there we will know He is God.
Ezekiel 23
Now for a story comparing the actions of Judah (Jerusalem) and Israel (Samaria) as if they were sisters and humans rather than nations. God is truly and remarkably at many levels, He treats us all individually but also collectively as nations we possess somewhat human characteristics. Israel and Judah let Egypt do what they wanted by giving themselves to Egypt.
Samaria (Israel) – Assyrians became their focus not God. Assyrians invaded and became the focus rather than God. She the nation took up their idols. They seemingly attributed the Assyrian power to their idols rather than that God allowed it.
What idols do we attribute success to? College education, fitness, certain car, certain job, certain vacation. People become very passionate about their idols and often lose focus as to what is important. Idols also feed our self centeredness we think we (note the reference to self) will have a better life if we (again) have that thing. We should be pursuing education, careers in an effort not to be a burden on others, rather than what we get out of it. The only happiness in life is in a relationship with God and serving Him. Otherwise at some point there will be regret, a feeling an opportunity was missed.
God gave Samaria what they wanted, more of the Assyrians, which they focused on rather than the true God and it destroyed their country. Caused children to be murdered. Is it fair that God lets children die? Seemingly because of the actions of others. This is a hard thing to understand, but God is about justice and righteousness, and HE ALONE can make things like the death of a child fair. We cannot, and we feel powerless often getting angry, but it shows us our position- which is that we are not God. The Samarians seemingly wanted less of God so He gave them what they wanted, and look where it led. Another example in the Bible that God knows what is best for us and we really don't.
Judah watched the actions of Samaria, and didn't learn from them. We ask how this is possible, and yet how many different ways have we tried the same thing, getting an undesirable result, and yet insist this time it will be different. We are “special” we think- it will work for us but not for them- pride I'm afraid is elevating us falsely. How many of us made the same decisions (which turned out badly) that an older sibling did? How many of our kids walk down the same path that we tried all those years ago with results we aren't content with? In all this God is our father, watching yet another child make the same mistakes an older sibling did, wondering why they didn't learn, wondering how they can be so blind to reality.
Judah surpassed Samaria in turning away from God, she turned away from God with the Assyrians and the Babylonians and still wasn't satisfied. Apart from a relationship with God there is no satisfaction. Having a relationship with God (committing to it) and then turning away for relationship with someone/something else is adultery.
God wants relationship but its not demanded, there would be no relationship if He made us, He only then makes the offer. Judah rejected Him so He turned away. When God turns away from you in your life watch out. The good things are from God, if He turns, the good things go with Him.
Judah seemingly got what she wanted (God out of the picture), and it went to her head, she now thought she was God and exercised what she thought was now her privilege to do anything. When we do what we want apart from God, people will get hurt, and there doesn't seem to be an exception in the Bible. Those that Judah hurt possibly by trying to break off the relationship, came back to hurt Judah. Isn't that our natural response when we are hurt, it is to strike back (its not of God, but of the flesh). Since the countries Judah turned from God for were not Godly themselves they acted in the flesh- hurting Judah if Judah hurt them. If we live in a “Me” or “I” frame of mind very long we will get hurt by the actions of others.
God had almost reached the point of abandoning Judah, because of her wanting her way. She did what Samaria had tried and gotten the same result. Now she had to drink the consequences. Consequences from turning from God, and denying Him, and focusing on self. Ezekiel was to point out the actions of Judah and Samaria. Show them their obscenities. A turning from God, a not putting God first – considering Him Holy. They sought answers from men and not God.
When we seek answers from men we often polish our side of the information. Ever heard of a couple in a dispute, and only hearing one side? You just can't believe the other person can be “that way”. Consider you are seeing the polish, we all have our faults and shortcomings, we all have weaknesses we sometimes act upon. Going to God? We can't hide anything from Him, we can't polish the information and spin it in our favor, He knows us. He might show us our contribution to the issue and its scary to consider “innocent us” might have some responsibility. We might have to change and admit we're not better than the other person(s) involved. Are we better than others? Does God think so? If we have responsibility in the issue shouldn't we want to change and do our part to fix it? Does God think so?
Ezekiel 24
The parable of the boiling pot. Babylon has laid siege to Jerusalem, all the people (who might think they are special, different or better) are all in the pot together. A pot that will be boiled (adversity). Piece by piece removed without choice. Choices were made, God's plan and ways were not followed and therefore bad things happened, and God had become wearied by the people (His people). He wants the filthiness to be melted away, trials drive people to God.
We want our own way until there is trouble, and then we run to God. God wants us to avoid the unpleasantness, and yet we reject His offer. He would cleanse us if we will let Him. Now after wearying Him His wrath must be endured - if that is possible unless He relents. He will judge and will do so fairly- none of us want that.
Ezekiel's wife died as an example of something we often set our sights on rather than God. A prime one being a relationship in the world. The temple had become a similar focus of the people, rather than a focus on God. They felt God would protect His temple and thus them, and felt secure, but it was a false sense of security. God wants our focus to be on Him. Not the things of Him, not the things He has given us, but Him alone. Over time He brings us to this point of a focus on Him alone, when we are there we will know He is God.
Ezekiel 20-22 Notes
We did meet on April 25, and discussed chapters 20-22. The notes are below. In May there was Praise and Worship -1st Sunday, my son's graduation -second Sunday and I went camping -Third Sunday. May 23 will be our first meeting.
The notes for ch 20-22:
Ezekiel 20
Leaders come to Ezekiel to inquire of God seeking His Guidance. God will not be questioned by them. Then begins a history lesson as to the why not. When He rescued Israel from Egypt they rebelled against Him. He was going to destroy them, but acted out of who He was and not how He felt. We face similar choices, we can act in the right way because it is the right way or we can act on our feelings of hurt or desire.
He gave Israel His laws, but they continued to rebel against Him. This is now the children of those that came out of Egypt. If they obey His laws they will live in the land, if they do not they will be scattered. They chose not to obey and eventually were scattered. They desecrated the sabbath. Again He acted out of who He is and not how He felt. His laws and statues that he gave them could not produce goodness and life (v25), they were meant to alert them to their hopeless condition without God. He abandoned them to let them do their own thing. Goodness and life only come through obedience, choosing to follow God's nature rather than our feelings.
He brought them into the land and on every hill they made an idol to another god, not caring for following the true God. The message Ezekiel has from God for the leaders coming for guidance is that they are continuing in the ways of their parents. They repeat the vile practices and sacrifice their own children. Acting as such God will not be questioned by them. To seek God -repentance - turning to His ways is what He wants. Otherwise we are trying to manipulate God, and He won't have it.
Israel like the other nations wanted to have gods that they control. They wanted gods they could manipulate, but God is saying He will be King over them. He will show that He is God. He will bring them back from being scattered with a mighty show of strength, and he will judge them, culling out the rebels and traitors, they won't be brought back to Israel, then they'll realize that He is the true God.
Continue He says going your own way, but one day the entire people of Israel will worship Him on His mountain, and He'll receive them with open arms. In bringing them to Himself before the whole world he will demonstrate that He is God. He acts out of who He is and not how He feels. They will loathe their actions of old- remembering them, prior to coming and worshiping God.
For now Ezekiel is told to prophesy of a fire that God starts that cannot be put out. This places Ezekiel at the time of the great scattering in the dialogue given.
Ezekiel 21
The sword is about to be unleashed on Israel on both the wicked and the righteous. He, God, is warning them. He means business, it will be His way and not ours. They worshiped things other than the true God, so He is abandoning them to the sword.
They have avoided discipline, and now God is putting them into a position where they can't avoid it.
The sword will come until God tells it to relent.
Starting at verse 18 we see how this is going to unfold. The king of Babylon will come and "decide" whether to go to Damascus or Jerusalem. God is really in control of this outcome, The Babylonians decide to go to Jerusalem. This will mean siege of the city. The sins of the leaders will be exposed, and they will be taken captive. Zedekiah swore allegiance to Babylon, and then changed his mind. His time is up, the entire city will become ruins.
The city will be in ruins until the one comes who has a right to it. For now Ezekiel is to prophesy the destruction.
Ezekiel 22
God asks Ezekiel if he is going to judge the city. Stand there and tell them all about their outrageous obscenities. In this context judge seems to indicate “point out”. A murderous city filled with idols. Murder and idols, piling up guilt, forcing a premature end to their existence. Murder makes guilty, idolatry makes filthy. They will be an exhibit for the nations. God will use His city and His nation for that.
6- The leaders compete to do crimes, they are rude to parents- not respect, abusive-prejudiced, and oppressive to orphans and widows- pick on the most helpless. They treat Holy things with contempt -not giving Him His proper place. Although acknowledge God (although they really don't have the proper perspective of Who God is) they also worship other gods. Spread lies and spill blood – gossip and malice. Sex -personal pleasure focused, not caring about partners, too focused on “I” or “me”. Sex with anyone, not as God intended- for bonding and children.
Murder for hire- playing God and trying to impose your will. Exhortation, trying to control, trying to run things our way. God was forgotten – or an attempt was made to forget, instead of prominently in His rightful place, not part of the focus of life.
God will deal with them, when He does, will they be able to continue? He is going to put a stop to their denial of Him and scatter the nation. Once they are no longer in control they will see God. We must make God the center of our lives and keep Him there. When self takes over nudging God to the side then all the previously described sin happens. He then takes away our seeming “control” and we readily shift Him back to His rightful place.
People of Israel are like slag, because of their behavior. Self focused instead of God focused, so they become useless to God. He will melt them down and give them trials through His wrath. Our non-God centered life will become unimportant. He will get through to us.
Drought- we take rain for granted, along with what it brings. Drought comes and we compete, taking from the weaker to satisfy our wants. Definitely not loving our brother.
Priests – mixed the sacred and secular. God is to be the focus of our lives not just a part. For He cannot be equal with other parts because He is God. Whether we acknowledge Him or not He is already in the other parts. Priests tell people there is no difference between right and wrong, we hear today as truth is “personal” there are no “absolutes”, and yet God is absolute and Holy. We are either for Him or against Him.
Priests pull God to their level, they might say that God grieves over earthquake victims in Haiti just like we do. Correction – God grieves over our sin and our mistakes. He knew Haiti would happen, He wants to get our attention. God is about justice and fairness and he makes things right for all individuals – most assuredly in ways we don't always or cannot see.
Politicians kill and take what they want – they don't feel responsible nor accountable for their actions. Priests back them up by saying they have “special” visions and “revelations”. They say this is what God the master says … They have made themselves out to be more spiritual than others.
God is not a respecter of persons (Acts 10:34, Rom 2:11 and 1Peter1:17)
So God may share a vision with one person, but it is available to all. He will give it to you as well. Otherwise God would be a respecter of persons. He certainly gives you what you need, and when you are ready for it, and when it will do Him the most good. Otherwise the babies may choke on the solid food.
There was no access to justice. God looked for someone (singular) to stand up for Him, stand in the gap so He wouldn't have to destroy the city. So He'll empty His wrath when nobody is willing to speak truly for Him. The city will be destroyed, and no innocent people are affected.
The notes for ch 20-22:
Ezekiel 20
Leaders come to Ezekiel to inquire of God seeking His Guidance. God will not be questioned by them. Then begins a history lesson as to the why not. When He rescued Israel from Egypt they rebelled against Him. He was going to destroy them, but acted out of who He was and not how He felt. We face similar choices, we can act in the right way because it is the right way or we can act on our feelings of hurt or desire.
He gave Israel His laws, but they continued to rebel against Him. This is now the children of those that came out of Egypt. If they obey His laws they will live in the land, if they do not they will be scattered. They chose not to obey and eventually were scattered. They desecrated the sabbath. Again He acted out of who He is and not how He felt. His laws and statues that he gave them could not produce goodness and life (v25), they were meant to alert them to their hopeless condition without God. He abandoned them to let them do their own thing. Goodness and life only come through obedience, choosing to follow God's nature rather than our feelings.
He brought them into the land and on every hill they made an idol to another god, not caring for following the true God. The message Ezekiel has from God for the leaders coming for guidance is that they are continuing in the ways of their parents. They repeat the vile practices and sacrifice their own children. Acting as such God will not be questioned by them. To seek God -repentance - turning to His ways is what He wants. Otherwise we are trying to manipulate God, and He won't have it.
Israel like the other nations wanted to have gods that they control. They wanted gods they could manipulate, but God is saying He will be King over them. He will show that He is God. He will bring them back from being scattered with a mighty show of strength, and he will judge them, culling out the rebels and traitors, they won't be brought back to Israel, then they'll realize that He is the true God.
Continue He says going your own way, but one day the entire people of Israel will worship Him on His mountain, and He'll receive them with open arms. In bringing them to Himself before the whole world he will demonstrate that He is God. He acts out of who He is and not how He feels. They will loathe their actions of old- remembering them, prior to coming and worshiping God.
For now Ezekiel is told to prophesy of a fire that God starts that cannot be put out. This places Ezekiel at the time of the great scattering in the dialogue given.
Ezekiel 21
The sword is about to be unleashed on Israel on both the wicked and the righteous. He, God, is warning them. He means business, it will be His way and not ours. They worshiped things other than the true God, so He is abandoning them to the sword.
They have avoided discipline, and now God is putting them into a position where they can't avoid it.
The sword will come until God tells it to relent.
Starting at verse 18 we see how this is going to unfold. The king of Babylon will come and "decide" whether to go to Damascus or Jerusalem. God is really in control of this outcome, The Babylonians decide to go to Jerusalem. This will mean siege of the city. The sins of the leaders will be exposed, and they will be taken captive. Zedekiah swore allegiance to Babylon, and then changed his mind. His time is up, the entire city will become ruins.
The city will be in ruins until the one comes who has a right to it. For now Ezekiel is to prophesy the destruction.
Ezekiel 22
God asks Ezekiel if he is going to judge the city. Stand there and tell them all about their outrageous obscenities. In this context judge seems to indicate “point out”. A murderous city filled with idols. Murder and idols, piling up guilt, forcing a premature end to their existence. Murder makes guilty, idolatry makes filthy. They will be an exhibit for the nations. God will use His city and His nation for that.
6- The leaders compete to do crimes, they are rude to parents- not respect, abusive-prejudiced, and oppressive to orphans and widows- pick on the most helpless. They treat Holy things with contempt -not giving Him His proper place. Although acknowledge God (although they really don't have the proper perspective of Who God is) they also worship other gods. Spread lies and spill blood – gossip and malice. Sex -personal pleasure focused, not caring about partners, too focused on “I” or “me”. Sex with anyone, not as God intended- for bonding and children.
Murder for hire- playing God and trying to impose your will. Exhortation, trying to control, trying to run things our way. God was forgotten – or an attempt was made to forget, instead of prominently in His rightful place, not part of the focus of life.
God will deal with them, when He does, will they be able to continue? He is going to put a stop to their denial of Him and scatter the nation. Once they are no longer in control they will see God. We must make God the center of our lives and keep Him there. When self takes over nudging God to the side then all the previously described sin happens. He then takes away our seeming “control” and we readily shift Him back to His rightful place.
People of Israel are like slag, because of their behavior. Self focused instead of God focused, so they become useless to God. He will melt them down and give them trials through His wrath. Our non-God centered life will become unimportant. He will get through to us.
Drought- we take rain for granted, along with what it brings. Drought comes and we compete, taking from the weaker to satisfy our wants. Definitely not loving our brother.
Priests – mixed the sacred and secular. God is to be the focus of our lives not just a part. For He cannot be equal with other parts because He is God. Whether we acknowledge Him or not He is already in the other parts. Priests tell people there is no difference between right and wrong, we hear today as truth is “personal” there are no “absolutes”, and yet God is absolute and Holy. We are either for Him or against Him.
Priests pull God to their level, they might say that God grieves over earthquake victims in Haiti just like we do. Correction – God grieves over our sin and our mistakes. He knew Haiti would happen, He wants to get our attention. God is about justice and fairness and he makes things right for all individuals – most assuredly in ways we don't always or cannot see.
Politicians kill and take what they want – they don't feel responsible nor accountable for their actions. Priests back them up by saying they have “special” visions and “revelations”. They say this is what God the master says … They have made themselves out to be more spiritual than others.
God is not a respecter of persons (Acts 10:34, Rom 2:11 and 1Peter1:17)
So God may share a vision with one person, but it is available to all. He will give it to you as well. Otherwise God would be a respecter of persons. He certainly gives you what you need, and when you are ready for it, and when it will do Him the most good. Otherwise the babies may choke on the solid food.
There was no access to justice. God looked for someone (singular) to stand up for Him, stand in the gap so He wouldn't have to destroy the city. So He'll empty His wrath when nobody is willing to speak truly for Him. The city will be destroyed, and no innocent people are affected.
Ezekiel 18 and 19 notes
Here they are as promised.
Ezekiel 18
Here we have a wonderful passage of teaching in this chapter. Each person will account for his/her own sins. the people of Israel were going around saying the children are punished for the sins of their parents. Lots of wonderful messages here.
First of all the sin of parents can affect the children of those parents. There is what some people call a "generational curse" where the behavior of parents do negatively impact the lives of the children. Parents are often blamed for bad behavior by children. The fact that people were saying this maybe meant that they weren't concerned with their sin because there apparently would be no consequences on them but only their children. Now parents who willingly sin and delay the consequences until the generation of their children are being entirely too selfish.
Every soul is God's and he states that. Furthermore every soul will account for their own actions. This is illustrated by the example of a righteous generation followed by a wicked generation followed by a righteous generation. The action of the individuals are what determines their life (eternal) or not.
One thing can be inferred even though it isn't said. It is this, that a generational curse does not have any power over an individual. It is a matter of personal choice. Bad actions and choices by your parents do not necessarily mean their children will make bad choices.
The symmetry here is wonderful as well. Good actions and choices by parents do not necessarily mean a child will make good choices. It will always be an individual's choice.
Pause- reflect on what this means, wonderful circumstances do not prevent bad choices, and terrible circumstances do not make certain bad choices. I think of my shortcomings as a parent, and all parents I would hazard to say make errors. I see in my mind hungry and abused children that God loves, those in terrible family situations and yet they have hope, the best type of hope.
Conversely children in near perfect homes still have choices to make. Life determining choices.
Another interesting point, it is that our bad choices (sins) are forgotten when we turn toward righteousness and repent. In I Cor 13 we read that love doesn't keep a record of wrongs. Are we keeping records of the wrongs done to us? Neither here nor in I Cor is an exception noted. More symmetry, righteous acts are not deposited and kept in an account so we can transgress. If a person chooses to turn away from God, they will die Eze 18:24.
What it means is that people have to constantly choose to follow God. They have to continue down the righteous path they started daily. There is no plateau, there should be constant growth. Building up sin credit isn't possible. On the other hand a person who has made selfish, prideful decisions can choose a different way and his/her past is erased from God's memory (even if not from man's).
What remarkable love.
The Israelites claimed that this wasn't "fair" - was it because they were trying to build up a credit to allow transgression? Transgression being a willful act that hurts the welfare of another person. Or were they leaning on pride and the fact that they had been righteous "longer" than a person who just turned to God. Longer somehow making them better.
This means there is hope for wicked people to turn and find life, and at the same time the righteous person has an opportunity to fall. The day you accepted Christ was a turning to God, a choosing His way over your own. I hope that choosing His way is a daily activity by us all. Choose to live His way daily, hourly, by the minute, by the second, it is his desire that none should perish, and His ways are the best (by far) choices.
What remarkable love.
Ezekiel 19
This requires a history lesson from 2 Chron 36. Judah is the lioness, her cubs are kings at the end before exile. Her first cub taken to Egypt with hooks. This would be Josiah's son Jehoahaz- taken to Egypt by its king. He then appointed Jehoiakim, Jehoahaz' brother as king. Nebuchadnezzar came and laid seige to Judah and took this king to Babylon.
This shows that Judah was weak, that it was overrun by two different nations. A vine if you will, easy to break. But torn from its land, its roots, and now only fit for the fire.
After Jehoiakim was taken to Babylon, Jehoiachin his son made king, but he was later ordered to be brought to Babylon. Zedekiah (Jehoiachin's uncle- Son of Josiah??) made king, and was the king when the city was taken and destroyed.
Ezekiel 18
Here we have a wonderful passage of teaching in this chapter. Each person will account for his/her own sins. the people of Israel were going around saying the children are punished for the sins of their parents. Lots of wonderful messages here.
First of all the sin of parents can affect the children of those parents. There is what some people call a "generational curse" where the behavior of parents do negatively impact the lives of the children. Parents are often blamed for bad behavior by children. The fact that people were saying this maybe meant that they weren't concerned with their sin because there apparently would be no consequences on them but only their children. Now parents who willingly sin and delay the consequences until the generation of their children are being entirely too selfish.
Every soul is God's and he states that. Furthermore every soul will account for their own actions. This is illustrated by the example of a righteous generation followed by a wicked generation followed by a righteous generation. The action of the individuals are what determines their life (eternal) or not.
One thing can be inferred even though it isn't said. It is this, that a generational curse does not have any power over an individual. It is a matter of personal choice. Bad actions and choices by your parents do not necessarily mean their children will make bad choices.
The symmetry here is wonderful as well. Good actions and choices by parents do not necessarily mean a child will make good choices. It will always be an individual's choice.
Pause- reflect on what this means, wonderful circumstances do not prevent bad choices, and terrible circumstances do not make certain bad choices. I think of my shortcomings as a parent, and all parents I would hazard to say make errors. I see in my mind hungry and abused children that God loves, those in terrible family situations and yet they have hope, the best type of hope.
Conversely children in near perfect homes still have choices to make. Life determining choices.
Another interesting point, it is that our bad choices (sins) are forgotten when we turn toward righteousness and repent. In I Cor 13 we read that love doesn't keep a record of wrongs. Are we keeping records of the wrongs done to us? Neither here nor in I Cor is an exception noted. More symmetry, righteous acts are not deposited and kept in an account so we can transgress. If a person chooses to turn away from God, they will die Eze 18:24.
What it means is that people have to constantly choose to follow God. They have to continue down the righteous path they started daily. There is no plateau, there should be constant growth. Building up sin credit isn't possible. On the other hand a person who has made selfish, prideful decisions can choose a different way and his/her past is erased from God's memory (even if not from man's).
What remarkable love.
The Israelites claimed that this wasn't "fair" - was it because they were trying to build up a credit to allow transgression? Transgression being a willful act that hurts the welfare of another person. Or were they leaning on pride and the fact that they had been righteous "longer" than a person who just turned to God. Longer somehow making them better.
This means there is hope for wicked people to turn and find life, and at the same time the righteous person has an opportunity to fall. The day you accepted Christ was a turning to God, a choosing His way over your own. I hope that choosing His way is a daily activity by us all. Choose to live His way daily, hourly, by the minute, by the second, it is his desire that none should perish, and His ways are the best (by far) choices.
What remarkable love.
Ezekiel 19
This requires a history lesson from 2 Chron 36. Judah is the lioness, her cubs are kings at the end before exile. Her first cub taken to Egypt with hooks. This would be Josiah's son Jehoahaz- taken to Egypt by its king. He then appointed Jehoiakim, Jehoahaz' brother as king. Nebuchadnezzar came and laid seige to Judah and took this king to Babylon.
This shows that Judah was weak, that it was overrun by two different nations. A vine if you will, easy to break. But torn from its land, its roots, and now only fit for the fire.
After Jehoiakim was taken to Babylon, Jehoiachin his son made king, but he was later ordered to be brought to Babylon. Zedekiah (Jehoiachin's uncle- Son of Josiah??) made king, and was the king when the city was taken and destroyed.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Ezekiel 18 and 19, April 18, 2010
Its been a while since we met but we had four for wordlisteners tonight. After some discussion of current events at the church we read and discussed Ezekiel 18 and 19.
Our next meeting is scheduled for April 25th at 6:30. My notes will be attached later. Ezekiel 18 shows God's love for us as individuals, its amazing.
Our next meeting is scheduled for April 25th at 6:30. My notes will be attached later. Ezekiel 18 shows God's love for us as individuals, its amazing.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Feb 14, 2010 Ezekiel 14-17
Tonight we had four for Wordlisteners, we read and discussed Ezekiel 14 -17. I didn't read my notes because I think maybe my notes are too boring and the Bible should be read as how does this apply to my life.
After reviewing my notes I found that they were quite well done and that we had discussed most of the points I had made in them. Its Awesome the way God knits us all together.
Our next meeting will be after Easter. Our church is doing HOF (Hearts on Fire) the next six Sunday nights.
Here are my notes:
Ezekiel 14
Idols in their hearts, leaders came to Ezekiel with something other than God first and foremost in their hearts. Anything that is put before God in our hearts will destroy us - it plainly says that here. These people have idols in their lives and still come to seek the advice of God from one of His known prophets. God's message, He will work on their hearts. They can repent and turn away from their idols, or they can not repent which means they are turning their backs on God- their choice. Choices have consequences - turning your back on God means He will use you as an example for others of what happens when someone turns their back on God. A prophet furthermore can be deceived and seemingly tell these seekers its OK to turn your back on God. When things go awry they then blame God- another data point for having a personal relationship with God, and not relying on another person. The only person we can trust to intercede for us is Christ. The prophet is in trouble, and God will remove him. Furthermore those that use the excuse that "the prophet said" will still be held accountable for their actions. God's desire is for people to put Him first, to not rebel against Him which makes them filthy.
Now we get a glimpse of how God is going to deal with a faithless country, in this case Jerusalem. Since Jerusalem (Judah) isn't mentioned until later then perhaps this might be a general strategy of His. He will start by destroying the food supply. A reference is made to Noah, Daniel, and Job, clearly they followed the Lord and put Him first they would be spared from the famine. Those that follow God will be. If their kids are there then the righteousness of the parent does not save the children (in depth in Chapter 18), we all must make our own decisions as to who to follow (God is preferred). Is following God out of fear of catastrophe in this life a good enough reason to do it, or are you really being selfish and looking out for your own interests? Actions may appear well, but has your heart changed?
Another method is to make wild animals go through the country, driving out the inhabitants. Again He will rescue or protect those that follow Him.
He may allow war to come to that country, again protecting those that are faithful to Him. Lastly He might allow disease to come to the faithless country, always as is His way, protecting those faithful to Him.
These four catastrophes are in store for Jerusalem, and even with all that some will survive, and decide to change. To repent from following idols (placing something before God in their hearts) and turn to follow Him. The destructive nature of lives lived with idols instead of God at the center of your life is far worse than the catastrophes God uses. Its worse than suffering from famine, disease, war, and wild animals. God is serious about this matter, and its absolutely in our best interest as well.
Ezekiel 15
The people in Jerusalem are compared to the wood of a vine. Vine really have no strength and is a soft wood good for burning. The charring reference came from the history that the Assyrian army was within four miles of Jerusalem before God destroyed it. Now God will let the Babylonians destroy the city. Why? The people, His chosen people have been faithless. Jerusalem will become a wilderness for a time.
Ezekiel 16
This is one of those chapters where God outlines His great love for us. It is preserved for us as an example that God loves us. The first part is an example of a helpless baby abandoned by the parents. The umbilical cord wasn't cut, the baby was just discarded in a vacant lot. All of us know that there was a time when we were helpless, and possibly even remember such situations. The abandonment by parents, and yet cared for by God shows His heart not just for nations and peoples but also for us as individuals.
God then chose the people of Israel and cared for them. Bathed them, provided for them, and they grew up. Like a child they got to a point where they could do certain things for themselves. Parents always have mixed feelings at this. We rejoice at the independence but have some sorrow that it will mean the child is less dependent. God came by again and made up Israel into a beautiful bride like nation, stunning to look at, and entered into a marriage like covenant with them. They became His, and He blessed them to become world renown.
Just like a child growing up Israel forgot about what God had done, children often don't realize or remember the sacrifices their parents made for them. Israel and us as individuals took the blessings of God and it went to our heads. We forgot our helplessness, we forgot that what we had had been given to us. This is all very easy to do. They reached and we reach a point of expectation. This will continue forever, and furthermore we fool ourselves into thinking we are in control.
What happened to Israel? They at this point abandoned God and started doing their own thing, and this can happen to us as individuals as well. They then took the blessings God had given them and used them in a manner that grieved God. What He desired that they do they ignored, and yes this can apply to individuals. They sacrificed their children, the ones God had given them, this I believe is a clear indicator of a nation or a person that has sunk to a very low level. Willing to kill their own children to preserve what they think is their desire for the way life should be. The helplessness of the Israel initially was forgotten, and that we are all helpless before God we often forget. Instead they did and we do things that displease God.
Then escalation happened, it was no longer just within their borders or personal lives, but they spread their ways to other nations and peoples. They involved them in their wickedness (displeasing of God). Not just one person either but multiples, and over time. Whoever came along. The chapter compares it to adultery, and putting something before God after claiming to be a Christian or one of His people is the same act. In a marriage adultery is putting someone before your spouse. The example is clear. In adulterous relationships often the adulterer is paid for the relationship, in the case of Israel, that is reversed. They take the blessings of God and give them away to those that they are putting first before God. As individuals this can happen too.
God wants to bless us greatly, and yet we are willing to "give it away" to settle for less. Give away steak to eat a hot dog.
God will respond by removing His blessings, effectively stripping them down to what they really are. Really not even that far, for life itself is a gift from God. Otherwise we would be a bucket of dust. All we have is really God's - make no mistake , and it is His to let us enjoy, or to take away.
People are often only nice to us because we have something they want, or would like to use. What we actually are is not very valuable, and reduced to something close to our true value we would not be very desirable. At that point we would appear very needy as Israel did, and it would then make logical sense to kill them and put them out of their misery, rather than support them. How many of us have ever had a "fair weather friend", same idea.
Samaria (Israel) is the older sister, Sodom is the younger sister. This address is to the kingdom of Judah, and since it is long preserved, it has application today. Haven't we lived as them in regards to our relationship with God? Judah has actually done worse than Israel or Sodom. The sin of Sodom in God's eyes is that they lived in the lap of luxury, proud, gluttonous and lazy and ignored and oppressed the poor. Their lives were obscene and they thought they were better than they actually were. God's verdict destruction- no righteous left.
Judah actually makes Sodom and Israel look righteous. Look- or appear - not are. Judah will have to accept their shame, we will need to accept our shame and shortcomings as well. We need to realize that apart from God we are a bucket of dust, and live accordingly.
Just like the chapter began with God showing His great love for us, it ends. Even with our shortcomings, our openly and actively displeasing Him, He loves us. He made a covenant with us (Judah). He'll make a new covenant with us when we remember our shortcomings, our place as it were. We will remember with shame our former life and bad decisions, and yet God will make it right. We will be speechless.
Ezekiel 17
The great tree, a symbol of the king of Babylon coming and taking the leader of Judah and all the best of Judah into exile. He then appoints another member of the royal family who makes a covenant of allegiance to Babylon. The Lord is very serious about covenants, Zedekiah the appointed king breaks the covenant by trying to form an alliance with Egypt. His thinking is that an alliance with a strong country would allow him to remain king and get out of his covenant.
In modern times we make treaties to prevent wars, as a deterrence, but it really caused the last two world wars.
A covenant is important to God, He wants us to keep our word even if its to our own detriment, so in one sense one must be careful of the promises one makes, even if its one that would allow you to be king. Did the Egyptian Pharaoh not aid Zedekiah because he knew him to be untrustworthy? God said it would happen, but there was a mechanism in the Egyptians' minds that prevented it in real terms.
God expects us to keep our word, and not give it lightly. This is also His heart towards us. He will keep His word, and He doesn't give it lightly. Zedekiah when making his oath to Nebuchadnezzar probably swore on the name of the Lord. Breaking his oath will mean he will die in Babylon- which happened.
Chapter 17 ends with a glimpse forward, a leader (Christ) that the world will recognize that God had planted. The world will also realize that God keeps His word.
After reviewing my notes I found that they were quite well done and that we had discussed most of the points I had made in them. Its Awesome the way God knits us all together.
Our next meeting will be after Easter. Our church is doing HOF (Hearts on Fire) the next six Sunday nights.
Here are my notes:
Ezekiel 14
Idols in their hearts, leaders came to Ezekiel with something other than God first and foremost in their hearts. Anything that is put before God in our hearts will destroy us - it plainly says that here. These people have idols in their lives and still come to seek the advice of God from one of His known prophets. God's message, He will work on their hearts. They can repent and turn away from their idols, or they can not repent which means they are turning their backs on God- their choice. Choices have consequences - turning your back on God means He will use you as an example for others of what happens when someone turns their back on God. A prophet furthermore can be deceived and seemingly tell these seekers its OK to turn your back on God. When things go awry they then blame God- another data point for having a personal relationship with God, and not relying on another person. The only person we can trust to intercede for us is Christ. The prophet is in trouble, and God will remove him. Furthermore those that use the excuse that "the prophet said" will still be held accountable for their actions. God's desire is for people to put Him first, to not rebel against Him which makes them filthy.
Now we get a glimpse of how God is going to deal with a faithless country, in this case Jerusalem. Since Jerusalem (Judah) isn't mentioned until later then perhaps this might be a general strategy of His. He will start by destroying the food supply. A reference is made to Noah, Daniel, and Job, clearly they followed the Lord and put Him first they would be spared from the famine. Those that follow God will be. If their kids are there then the righteousness of the parent does not save the children (in depth in Chapter 18), we all must make our own decisions as to who to follow (God is preferred). Is following God out of fear of catastrophe in this life a good enough reason to do it, or are you really being selfish and looking out for your own interests? Actions may appear well, but has your heart changed?
Another method is to make wild animals go through the country, driving out the inhabitants. Again He will rescue or protect those that follow Him.
He may allow war to come to that country, again protecting those that are faithful to Him. Lastly He might allow disease to come to the faithless country, always as is His way, protecting those faithful to Him.
These four catastrophes are in store for Jerusalem, and even with all that some will survive, and decide to change. To repent from following idols (placing something before God in their hearts) and turn to follow Him. The destructive nature of lives lived with idols instead of God at the center of your life is far worse than the catastrophes God uses. Its worse than suffering from famine, disease, war, and wild animals. God is serious about this matter, and its absolutely in our best interest as well.
Ezekiel 15
The people in Jerusalem are compared to the wood of a vine. Vine really have no strength and is a soft wood good for burning. The charring reference came from the history that the Assyrian army was within four miles of Jerusalem before God destroyed it. Now God will let the Babylonians destroy the city. Why? The people, His chosen people have been faithless. Jerusalem will become a wilderness for a time.
Ezekiel 16
This is one of those chapters where God outlines His great love for us. It is preserved for us as an example that God loves us. The first part is an example of a helpless baby abandoned by the parents. The umbilical cord wasn't cut, the baby was just discarded in a vacant lot. All of us know that there was a time when we were helpless, and possibly even remember such situations. The abandonment by parents, and yet cared for by God shows His heart not just for nations and peoples but also for us as individuals.
God then chose the people of Israel and cared for them. Bathed them, provided for them, and they grew up. Like a child they got to a point where they could do certain things for themselves. Parents always have mixed feelings at this. We rejoice at the independence but have some sorrow that it will mean the child is less dependent. God came by again and made up Israel into a beautiful bride like nation, stunning to look at, and entered into a marriage like covenant with them. They became His, and He blessed them to become world renown.
Just like a child growing up Israel forgot about what God had done, children often don't realize or remember the sacrifices their parents made for them. Israel and us as individuals took the blessings of God and it went to our heads. We forgot our helplessness, we forgot that what we had had been given to us. This is all very easy to do. They reached and we reach a point of expectation. This will continue forever, and furthermore we fool ourselves into thinking we are in control.
What happened to Israel? They at this point abandoned God and started doing their own thing, and this can happen to us as individuals as well. They then took the blessings God had given them and used them in a manner that grieved God. What He desired that they do they ignored, and yes this can apply to individuals. They sacrificed their children, the ones God had given them, this I believe is a clear indicator of a nation or a person that has sunk to a very low level. Willing to kill their own children to preserve what they think is their desire for the way life should be. The helplessness of the Israel initially was forgotten, and that we are all helpless before God we often forget. Instead they did and we do things that displease God.
Then escalation happened, it was no longer just within their borders or personal lives, but they spread their ways to other nations and peoples. They involved them in their wickedness (displeasing of God). Not just one person either but multiples, and over time. Whoever came along. The chapter compares it to adultery, and putting something before God after claiming to be a Christian or one of His people is the same act. In a marriage adultery is putting someone before your spouse. The example is clear. In adulterous relationships often the adulterer is paid for the relationship, in the case of Israel, that is reversed. They take the blessings of God and give them away to those that they are putting first before God. As individuals this can happen too.
God wants to bless us greatly, and yet we are willing to "give it away" to settle for less. Give away steak to eat a hot dog.
God will respond by removing His blessings, effectively stripping them down to what they really are. Really not even that far, for life itself is a gift from God. Otherwise we would be a bucket of dust. All we have is really God's - make no mistake , and it is His to let us enjoy, or to take away.
People are often only nice to us because we have something they want, or would like to use. What we actually are is not very valuable, and reduced to something close to our true value we would not be very desirable. At that point we would appear very needy as Israel did, and it would then make logical sense to kill them and put them out of their misery, rather than support them. How many of us have ever had a "fair weather friend", same idea.
Samaria (Israel) is the older sister, Sodom is the younger sister. This address is to the kingdom of Judah, and since it is long preserved, it has application today. Haven't we lived as them in regards to our relationship with God? Judah has actually done worse than Israel or Sodom. The sin of Sodom in God's eyes is that they lived in the lap of luxury, proud, gluttonous and lazy and ignored and oppressed the poor. Their lives were obscene and they thought they were better than they actually were. God's verdict destruction- no righteous left.
Judah actually makes Sodom and Israel look righteous. Look- or appear - not are. Judah will have to accept their shame, we will need to accept our shame and shortcomings as well. We need to realize that apart from God we are a bucket of dust, and live accordingly.
Just like the chapter began with God showing His great love for us, it ends. Even with our shortcomings, our openly and actively displeasing Him, He loves us. He made a covenant with us (Judah). He'll make a new covenant with us when we remember our shortcomings, our place as it were. We will remember with shame our former life and bad decisions, and yet God will make it right. We will be speechless.
Ezekiel 17
The great tree, a symbol of the king of Babylon coming and taking the leader of Judah and all the best of Judah into exile. He then appoints another member of the royal family who makes a covenant of allegiance to Babylon. The Lord is very serious about covenants, Zedekiah the appointed king breaks the covenant by trying to form an alliance with Egypt. His thinking is that an alliance with a strong country would allow him to remain king and get out of his covenant.
In modern times we make treaties to prevent wars, as a deterrence, but it really caused the last two world wars.
A covenant is important to God, He wants us to keep our word even if its to our own detriment, so in one sense one must be careful of the promises one makes, even if its one that would allow you to be king. Did the Egyptian Pharaoh not aid Zedekiah because he knew him to be untrustworthy? God said it would happen, but there was a mechanism in the Egyptians' minds that prevented it in real terms.
God expects us to keep our word, and not give it lightly. This is also His heart towards us. He will keep His word, and He doesn't give it lightly. Zedekiah when making his oath to Nebuchadnezzar probably swore on the name of the Lord. Breaking his oath will mean he will die in Babylon- which happened.
Chapter 17 ends with a glimpse forward, a leader (Christ) that the world will recognize that God had planted. The world will also realize that God keeps His word.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
WordListeners 1/24/2010 -Ezekiel 12 and 13
On Sunday night we had two for word listeners. The conversation was lively and we covered only 2 chapters - Ezekiel 12 and 13.
The notes are as follows:
Ezekiel 12
A rebellious people eyes that don't see and ears that don't hear. Blindness and deafness we often feel is a tragedy but is God using it as an example that there is more to life than perfect health in this world? We know the blind miss out on some beautiful sights, and that the deaf miss out on some beautiful sounds, but here is an example of people that were missing out on God. There is more to life than this physical world.
Ezekiel is to be a sign act again, he is to act out going into exile. An example for people to see rather than just words of warning. A visual. He is to act out the people's fate (if they don't turn- a chance was given in Jeremiah to Zedekiah), and in particular the fate of Zedekiah, who will go into exile blind - not seeing the country he is taken too, nor the country he is leaving from again. Since he couldn't "see" the truth of God, why did he need eyes?
Into exile, tunneling through walls and escaping -or trying to in the middle of the night. Some will survive to be a witness about how God punished their disobedience. They will realize that it was from God and will tell people.
Eat shaking, during the siege the fear will be there. The land will stripped bare for all the sin during punishment.
Prophecy is often assumed to be at a "later time". The people had assumed all these warnings are for later. It is easy to see for us who live very limited times in comparison to God who is timeless to come to that conclusion. God's word is often delayed, but it won't be for the generation being warned in Jerusalem. God always keeps His promises. His timing may be delayed, and the fulfillment often comes in stages, but it does happen.
Ezekiel 13
Prophecy is a message from God. People make up things out of their own head and call it a message from God. It happened then and it still happens today. Why? They think they have insight that others don't have, which seemingly makes them better than other people. Which is a sign of pride and not a message from God. If you are going to be God's messenger or prophet, then you need to be able to hear from Him. Time, place and method of hearing. To rely on what "comes to mind" can be an overactive imagination, or a thought of the enemy in addition to really being of God. We have the real thing - His word. We can share how we as an individual "see God in this passage". In thinking about His word, we need to think about how Jesus is manifested - in some way. We also need to dwell on the word of God, reading it and thinking about it often.
Getting back to prophets who make things up, they are doomed. Their messages won't align with God's word, their intentions are selfish, they aren't truly seeking God's will, or following it. They have fallen into the trap of pleasing men. In the second paragraph it implies these prophets talk but don't act. Are they so convinced their message is from God that they are willing to go it alone? Repairing the city, preparing for the future needs.
Lying or false prophets will not be part of God's people. They withhold from God's people the truth, or soften it in some way. Not unlike people in job situations that set out to deceive their workers, because the truth (in their opinion) is too unpleasant to fully disclose. In that time the prophets in Jerusalem denied that judgment was coming. In our time there is denial that God will act and allow the judgment predicted in the end times of the Bible. Its God's world, when He is ready it will happen, and it won't be pleasant for those who have denied Him. Those that have accepted Him, He will protect (in some way)- He has done it in the past, in similar situations on a smaller scale, but the same things have come to pass. When His wrath is let loose (interesting that the message edition uses Hurricane and I had talked about Katrina earlier) it will be bigger than man can make, and the messages of the false prophets who spoke comfort will be just that empty messages not truly from God.
So how do you know if your prophet is receiving messages from God or making them up out of his/her own mind? The short answer is you don't. You have to develop your relationship with the Lord, you have to "listen" for God in His word, or in other ways He may choose to manifest His message. Be very careful of listening to men and their thoughts. They may very well be from God, and they may very well not be.
In the end of the chapter he has a message against women prophets. Like the others they made up things in their own minds, just to get ahead materially in this life. God will deliver His people from their influence, and He wants to deliver us all. He delivers us by sending Christ and allowing us to get our own message from Him, usually through His written Word. We all want God to speak a new and different word to each of us, but then wouldn't He be singling us out and potentially feeding our pride? So He may very well not.
The notes are as follows:
Ezekiel 12
A rebellious people eyes that don't see and ears that don't hear. Blindness and deafness we often feel is a tragedy but is God using it as an example that there is more to life than perfect health in this world? We know the blind miss out on some beautiful sights, and that the deaf miss out on some beautiful sounds, but here is an example of people that were missing out on God. There is more to life than this physical world.
Ezekiel is to be a sign act again, he is to act out going into exile. An example for people to see rather than just words of warning. A visual. He is to act out the people's fate (if they don't turn- a chance was given in Jeremiah to Zedekiah), and in particular the fate of Zedekiah, who will go into exile blind - not seeing the country he is taken too, nor the country he is leaving from again. Since he couldn't "see" the truth of God, why did he need eyes?
Into exile, tunneling through walls and escaping -or trying to in the middle of the night. Some will survive to be a witness about how God punished their disobedience. They will realize that it was from God and will tell people.
Eat shaking, during the siege the fear will be there. The land will stripped bare for all the sin during punishment.
Prophecy is often assumed to be at a "later time". The people had assumed all these warnings are for later. It is easy to see for us who live very limited times in comparison to God who is timeless to come to that conclusion. God's word is often delayed, but it won't be for the generation being warned in Jerusalem. God always keeps His promises. His timing may be delayed, and the fulfillment often comes in stages, but it does happen.
Ezekiel 13
Prophecy is a message from God. People make up things out of their own head and call it a message from God. It happened then and it still happens today. Why? They think they have insight that others don't have, which seemingly makes them better than other people. Which is a sign of pride and not a message from God. If you are going to be God's messenger or prophet, then you need to be able to hear from Him. Time, place and method of hearing. To rely on what "comes to mind" can be an overactive imagination, or a thought of the enemy in addition to really being of God. We have the real thing - His word. We can share how we as an individual "see God in this passage". In thinking about His word, we need to think about how Jesus is manifested - in some way. We also need to dwell on the word of God, reading it and thinking about it often.
Getting back to prophets who make things up, they are doomed. Their messages won't align with God's word, their intentions are selfish, they aren't truly seeking God's will, or following it. They have fallen into the trap of pleasing men. In the second paragraph it implies these prophets talk but don't act. Are they so convinced their message is from God that they are willing to go it alone? Repairing the city, preparing for the future needs.
Lying or false prophets will not be part of God's people. They withhold from God's people the truth, or soften it in some way. Not unlike people in job situations that set out to deceive their workers, because the truth (in their opinion) is too unpleasant to fully disclose. In that time the prophets in Jerusalem denied that judgment was coming. In our time there is denial that God will act and allow the judgment predicted in the end times of the Bible. Its God's world, when He is ready it will happen, and it won't be pleasant for those who have denied Him. Those that have accepted Him, He will protect (in some way)- He has done it in the past, in similar situations on a smaller scale, but the same things have come to pass. When His wrath is let loose (interesting that the message edition uses Hurricane and I had talked about Katrina earlier) it will be bigger than man can make, and the messages of the false prophets who spoke comfort will be just that empty messages not truly from God.
So how do you know if your prophet is receiving messages from God or making them up out of his/her own mind? The short answer is you don't. You have to develop your relationship with the Lord, you have to "listen" for God in His word, or in other ways He may choose to manifest His message. Be very careful of listening to men and their thoughts. They may very well be from God, and they may very well not be.
In the end of the chapter he has a message against women prophets. Like the others they made up things in their own minds, just to get ahead materially in this life. God will deliver His people from their influence, and He wants to deliver us all. He delivers us by sending Christ and allowing us to get our own message from Him, usually through His written Word. We all want God to speak a new and different word to each of us, but then wouldn't He be singling us out and potentially feeding our pride? So He may very well not.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Jan 10, 2010 Ezekiel chs 8-11
Wordlisteners met tonight after a long absence during Christmas. There was 2 in attendance, and we discussed Ezekiel Chapters 8-11.
In chapter 8 we wondered why people turn to idols and feel God does not see them. A less than proper understanding of God is the only way you can come to the point where you feel God does not see what you do.
Additionally God cannot be controlled, and often our fear (really our wants) keep us from submitting to His will because He knows better than we do what is best for us.
In Chapter 9 we see that God is meticulous and marks those in Jerusalem deserving death. He also evacuated the righteous from Sodom and Gomorrah prior to judgment. So to say God allows innocent people to die and be killed is to elevate oneself to His level.
In Chapter 10 it was pointed out that Ezekiel's vision is similar to the one in Revelation that is the throne of God in heaven.
In Chapter 11 we get a glimpse of the millennial reign in versus 17-20.
Jesus is coming. He came as a Savior, and He is coming back as a ruling King. Not sure what to do? pray for God's guidance and follow His leadings. When not sure don't, God can raise up someone else if he needs to. Don't not follow God out of fear, or laziness, but continue bringing your concerns to Him, you'll get clear signals at some point..
Below are my reading notes.
Ezekiel 8 Why do people make up and serve other gods? In reading Ezekiel Chapter 8 God shows Ezekiel all the ways people are worshiping other gods in addition to Jehovah. The shrines are by His temple, and some of it even goes on in His temple. Examples are a sex god alter near the temple- in sight and an image in the temple. Pictures of animals in the temple being worshiped by leaders of Israel in the dark thinking God does not see. Weeping for the fertility god of the Babylonians, and finally inside the temple to 25 men with their backs to God's temple worshiping the sun. Back to my original question- why other gods?
Its clear the vision they have of God isn't big enough in some cases. The larger He is the smaller we have to admit we are. At some point we realize we are not in control and He is. This is scary for people who also don't make the supposition that God knows what He is doing, and its OK for Him to be in control. Our self takes a hit, we are not in control, and the ground of our mind is fertile to grow the thought that God might send us somewhere we don't want to go, or ask us to do something we don't want to do. We cling to our existence, start liking and enjoying certain aspects, and want more. We easily forget that it was God that gave us all this in the first place, and then somehow add the insult to Him that we don't believe He is capable of continuing to provide.
Since a near proper concept of God would clearly mean we cannot control Him, it is easy to fall into the distraction of creating things we can control. These gods will after all only require from us what we are willing to give whereas God may ask something of us we feel is not reasonable. We should be willing to give to God what He asks but that can be a fearful thought. So lets look at some of these gods.
The sex one- pleasure, we all like pleasurable experiences. Sex is a way for God to bless us - with bonding and with children, but we often want to be in control, and children mean sacrifice. Are we willing to give it? We reason that we should be able to have all the pleasure we want without any consequences to ourselves. So the pleasure of sex can easily outweigh any of the responsibility. In this chapter there is the example of those praying to the fertility god. This clearly is putting something ahead of God who is the One who blesses with children.
Those hiding in the dark thinking God doesn't see, don't have a near proper concept of Him. The last one was worshipers with their backs to God's Temple. A turning of their backs to God. In going after or creating gods we control that give us the answers we want to hear we are in fact turning our backs to God. We are becoming distracted by ourselves and our wants rather than His. This ultimately leads to our suffering, and the suffering of others in the interim before we get to the point of being personally affected.
God says He wants to be first. He says He is jealous. It may seem selfish on His part, but He is God. He is about taking care of His creation (namely us and this world we live in), and He means taking care of all of us, not just a few at the expense of others as we would want Him to do. Our concept of Him needs to be such that we realize He is doing it, even when we have no idea how. Then we will realize that when we don't put Him first we are hurting ourselves, and Him first is in our best interest.
Ezekiel 9 God is meticulous and pays attention to the individual. Collectively the city of Jerusalem was in sin, but as in most cases that probably didn't include everyone. So God sent an angel or some being to mark those that were not worthy of the death and destruction he had decreed on the city. The people marked were actually spared. God got the righteous out of Sodom and Gomorrah before He destroyed it, and wasn't willing to destroy an entire city if there were just a few righteous in it. He is all about justice and fairness although that remains an area we have a difficult time conceptually. Those without the mark were put to the sword without compassion because they felt no anguish at the conditions of Jerusalem. The people had stated that God had forsaken Jerusalem (probably because of the wickedness) but in fact God was there in the midst of it and knew exactly what was going on and what each and every individual was thinking and their heart condition.
Ezekiel 10 Here we have the vision of God again at the temple. God commanded coals be taken and spread out over the city. Is this God commanded destruction of the city? The Temple is presently filled with glory of God, but the presence of God is about to leave His Temple. So after years and multiple prophet warnings the glory of God is leaving the Temple, He is going to turn His head and let His Temple and His people be profaned because of their disobedience. They are still called His people even though they have turned their backs to Him.
Vs 14 is similar to the throne of God vision in Revelation, and the beings that guard God's throne. 3 of the 4 things described are the same.
Ezekiel 11 Ezekiel is carried by the spirit of the Lord from exile to Jerusalem (Halley's calls it "raptured"). With the initial group of the "best of Judah" (exiles) removed from Jerusalem another set of leaders stepped up and took control. They now gave advice and their pride is clear- they think they are the meat in the pot. They also believe God put them there after removing the others. This is not unlike the self proclaimed high priest in Jeremiah. Ezekiel is told to stand against them- God knows their thoughts, and evil is rampant in the city (as shown in the Chapter 10). Those they have killed are really the meat, they will be removed from the city. They fear war so war is what they will get (Prov 10:24) further evidence of their wickedness. They will be delivered into stranger's hands for judgment. When they see themselves falling by the sword they will remember the prophecy against them and know the God is God, hopefully they repented. Why? they didn't walk in God's statutes. They led the nation into being just like the nations around them rather than following God- sound familiar. We want to be "like the other nations" rather than being like the US. During this prophecy a person died, and Ezekiel wondered if God would take everyone.
14- The new leaders in Jerusalem then state their case for their authority- namely that the others had been taken away. They associated being in Jerusalem and near God's temple as justification for their authority. Their vision of God is limited, and Ezekiel prophecies that God provides a sanctuary for those He has removed that God will gather them back up and bring them back to Israel. They will remove idols, and will be given a new heart, and walk in the ordinances of God. They will be His people. Halley's Bible handbook says that even though they remain guilty of other sins they are not idolaters. Idolaters will be chased down by God and their conduct will be on their heads. Ezekiel is then returned to the people in exile.
17-20 describes the millennial reign. This has been partially but not completely fulfilled. Yes the Israelites came out of exile, yes they don't have the same issue with idolatry. They don't have God, or all their land, so it can't be complete.
In chapter 8 we wondered why people turn to idols and feel God does not see them. A less than proper understanding of God is the only way you can come to the point where you feel God does not see what you do.
Additionally God cannot be controlled, and often our fear (really our wants) keep us from submitting to His will because He knows better than we do what is best for us.
In Chapter 9 we see that God is meticulous and marks those in Jerusalem deserving death. He also evacuated the righteous from Sodom and Gomorrah prior to judgment. So to say God allows innocent people to die and be killed is to elevate oneself to His level.
In Chapter 10 it was pointed out that Ezekiel's vision is similar to the one in Revelation that is the throne of God in heaven.
In Chapter 11 we get a glimpse of the millennial reign in versus 17-20.
Jesus is coming. He came as a Savior, and He is coming back as a ruling King. Not sure what to do? pray for God's guidance and follow His leadings. When not sure don't, God can raise up someone else if he needs to. Don't not follow God out of fear, or laziness, but continue bringing your concerns to Him, you'll get clear signals at some point..
Below are my reading notes.
Ezekiel 8 Why do people make up and serve other gods? In reading Ezekiel Chapter 8 God shows Ezekiel all the ways people are worshiping other gods in addition to Jehovah. The shrines are by His temple, and some of it even goes on in His temple. Examples are a sex god alter near the temple- in sight and an image in the temple. Pictures of animals in the temple being worshiped by leaders of Israel in the dark thinking God does not see. Weeping for the fertility god of the Babylonians, and finally inside the temple to 25 men with their backs to God's temple worshiping the sun. Back to my original question- why other gods?
Its clear the vision they have of God isn't big enough in some cases. The larger He is the smaller we have to admit we are. At some point we realize we are not in control and He is. This is scary for people who also don't make the supposition that God knows what He is doing, and its OK for Him to be in control. Our self takes a hit, we are not in control, and the ground of our mind is fertile to grow the thought that God might send us somewhere we don't want to go, or ask us to do something we don't want to do. We cling to our existence, start liking and enjoying certain aspects, and want more. We easily forget that it was God that gave us all this in the first place, and then somehow add the insult to Him that we don't believe He is capable of continuing to provide.
Since a near proper concept of God would clearly mean we cannot control Him, it is easy to fall into the distraction of creating things we can control. These gods will after all only require from us what we are willing to give whereas God may ask something of us we feel is not reasonable. We should be willing to give to God what He asks but that can be a fearful thought. So lets look at some of these gods.
The sex one- pleasure, we all like pleasurable experiences. Sex is a way for God to bless us - with bonding and with children, but we often want to be in control, and children mean sacrifice. Are we willing to give it? We reason that we should be able to have all the pleasure we want without any consequences to ourselves. So the pleasure of sex can easily outweigh any of the responsibility. In this chapter there is the example of those praying to the fertility god. This clearly is putting something ahead of God who is the One who blesses with children.
Those hiding in the dark thinking God doesn't see, don't have a near proper concept of Him. The last one was worshipers with their backs to God's Temple. A turning of their backs to God. In going after or creating gods we control that give us the answers we want to hear we are in fact turning our backs to God. We are becoming distracted by ourselves and our wants rather than His. This ultimately leads to our suffering, and the suffering of others in the interim before we get to the point of being personally affected.
God says He wants to be first. He says He is jealous. It may seem selfish on His part, but He is God. He is about taking care of His creation (namely us and this world we live in), and He means taking care of all of us, not just a few at the expense of others as we would want Him to do. Our concept of Him needs to be such that we realize He is doing it, even when we have no idea how. Then we will realize that when we don't put Him first we are hurting ourselves, and Him first is in our best interest.
Ezekiel 9 God is meticulous and pays attention to the individual. Collectively the city of Jerusalem was in sin, but as in most cases that probably didn't include everyone. So God sent an angel or some being to mark those that were not worthy of the death and destruction he had decreed on the city. The people marked were actually spared. God got the righteous out of Sodom and Gomorrah before He destroyed it, and wasn't willing to destroy an entire city if there were just a few righteous in it. He is all about justice and fairness although that remains an area we have a difficult time conceptually. Those without the mark were put to the sword without compassion because they felt no anguish at the conditions of Jerusalem. The people had stated that God had forsaken Jerusalem (probably because of the wickedness) but in fact God was there in the midst of it and knew exactly what was going on and what each and every individual was thinking and their heart condition.
Ezekiel 10 Here we have the vision of God again at the temple. God commanded coals be taken and spread out over the city. Is this God commanded destruction of the city? The Temple is presently filled with glory of God, but the presence of God is about to leave His Temple. So after years and multiple prophet warnings the glory of God is leaving the Temple, He is going to turn His head and let His Temple and His people be profaned because of their disobedience. They are still called His people even though they have turned their backs to Him.
Vs 14 is similar to the throne of God vision in Revelation, and the beings that guard God's throne. 3 of the 4 things described are the same.
Ezekiel 11 Ezekiel is carried by the spirit of the Lord from exile to Jerusalem (Halley's calls it "raptured"). With the initial group of the "best of Judah" (exiles) removed from Jerusalem another set of leaders stepped up and took control. They now gave advice and their pride is clear- they think they are the meat in the pot. They also believe God put them there after removing the others. This is not unlike the self proclaimed high priest in Jeremiah. Ezekiel is told to stand against them- God knows their thoughts, and evil is rampant in the city (as shown in the Chapter 10). Those they have killed are really the meat, they will be removed from the city. They fear war so war is what they will get (Prov 10:24) further evidence of their wickedness. They will be delivered into stranger's hands for judgment. When they see themselves falling by the sword they will remember the prophecy against them and know the God is God, hopefully they repented. Why? they didn't walk in God's statutes. They led the nation into being just like the nations around them rather than following God- sound familiar. We want to be "like the other nations" rather than being like the US. During this prophecy a person died, and Ezekiel wondered if God would take everyone.
14- The new leaders in Jerusalem then state their case for their authority- namely that the others had been taken away. They associated being in Jerusalem and near God's temple as justification for their authority. Their vision of God is limited, and Ezekiel prophecies that God provides a sanctuary for those He has removed that God will gather them back up and bring them back to Israel. They will remove idols, and will be given a new heart, and walk in the ordinances of God. They will be His people. Halley's Bible handbook says that even though they remain guilty of other sins they are not idolaters. Idolaters will be chased down by God and their conduct will be on their heads. Ezekiel is then returned to the people in exile.
17-20 describes the millennial reign. This has been partially but not completely fulfilled. Yes the Israelites came out of exile, yes they don't have the same issue with idolatry. They don't have God, or all their land, so it can't be complete.
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