How can we apply Ezekiel's determination to our own faith-sharing efforts today? Ezekiel Faced Shrugs—and Spoke Anyway Ezekiel 20:49: “Then I said, ‘Ah, Lord GOD! They are saying of me, “Is he not just telling parables?”’” • People brushed off Ezekiel’s warnings as riddles. • He kept declaring God’s literal message—even when listeners rolled their eyes (see Ezekiel 21–24). The Same Skepticism Meets Us Today • Many call the gospel a myth, a moral tale, or “just another opinion.” • 1 Corinthians 1:18: “The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” Where Resolve Is Rooted • Jeremiah 1:7–8—sent, protected, emboldened. • Acts 4:20—“We cannot stop speaking.” • 2 Timothy 4:2—preach the word “in season and out.” How to Mirror Ezekiel’s Determination • Settle Scripture’s authority: daily reading locks in confidence that God has spoken. • Speak plainly: avoid jargon; present sin, judgment, and Christ’s rescue without dilution. • Expect misunderstanding: criticism did not silence Ezekiel; it needn’t silence us. • Lean on believers: mutual prayer and accountability fuel perseverance. • Persevere: Galatians 6:9—keep sowing; harvest is sure. • Celebrate every open door: a conversation, a shared verse, a life lived openly for Christ. The Payoff of Perseverance God vindicated Ezekiel when events unfolded exactly as foretold. He will vindicate His gospel today, for “the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). |
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