Bible Chapter: Ezekiel 11 & 12

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
This was a hard time for the nation.  So many were not listening to God.  The people who stayed in Jerusalem after the Babylonian invasion felt protect by God. They thought of themselves as choice people. They refused to believe the prophet’s proclamation that their sins would bring God to destroy them.  God told them their city would not be a safe place for them.  He promised judgement even to the borders of Israel.  They would be reminded and the would know that He IS the Lord.
A critical statement and vital lesson to learn: they refused to obey God’s decrees and ordinances.  They copied the standards of the other nations.  This speaks to them in the past and to those who, today, claim the name of Jesus.  God’s people are continually tempted to conform to the standards of ungodly people. We must learn to firmly resist imitating the customs of wicked people.  God has called us to live holy lives.
We also see that they were a rebellious people who refused to believe that God would destroy their city.  They believed that God would protect them even though they actively participated in sin.
There was hope for some who would return in the future.  They were told that when the people return to their homeland, they will remove every trace of their vile images and detestable idols.  This is what God always wants from His people.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
A common thread throughout this book is the rebellion of the people.  God told the prophet that he lived among rebels who have eyes but refuse to see as they rejected God. They have ears but refuse to hear, for they are a rebellious people.  The church world today has lost the concept of the dangers of rebelling against God.  Popularity and acceptance seem to be more important.  They don’t believe that God will come through with the judgements He has promised.  We are close to the time when there will be no more delays.  God has spoken and He will do it.  I believe we are living in days of judgement.  So, it is critical to live according to the Bible.

3.  How can I help someone?
I want to help people SEE, HEAR and then DO.  See and hear what God’s Word says and then do what it says without seeking compromise and the easy way out.