What does Ezekiel 20:1 reveal about seeking God's guidance through prophets? Setting the Scene “In the seventh year, in the fifth month, on the tenth day, some of the elders of Israel came to inquire of the LORD, and they sat down before me.” (Ezekiel 20:1) Key Observations from the Verse • Historical precision—year, month, and day—underscores that God’s dealings are real events, not abstract ideas. • Elders, the recognized leaders, approach the prophet, showing communal responsibility in seeking divine guidance. • The phrase “came to inquire of the LORD” indicates that genuine revelation flows through God’s appointed spokesman. • “They sat down before me” pictures humility and readiness to listen, not treating the prophet as an equal debate partner but as God’s mouthpiece. Principles for Seeking God’s Guidance • Approach God’s chosen messenger with reverence, not casual curiosity (cf. 2 Kings 3:11-12). • Accept that true guidance requires submission to the Word delivered, even when it confronts sin (Ezekiel 20:4-8 shows their motives were mixed, yet God still spoke). • Recognize leadership’s role: elders sought the prophet, modeling accountability for the people (Hebrews 13:17). • Wait for God’s timing; the specific date reminds that God answers when He wills, not on demand (Psalm 27:14). Confirming Truth with the Rest of Scripture • Prophets served as God’s ordained channel: “Formerly in Israel, if a man went to inquire of God, he would say, ‘Come, let us go to the seer’” (1 Samuel 9:9). • Blessing follows belief in prophetic word: “Believe His prophets, and you will succeed” (2 Chronicles 20:20). • Ultimate revelation now centers in Christ, yet still through inspired Scripture: “God... has spoken to us by His Son” (Hebrews 1:1-2). Personal Application Today • Seek guidance in Scripture first; it is the prophetic word made more certain (2 Peter 1:19). • Honor godly teachers who faithfully expound the Bible, recognizing their role parallels Ezekiel’s (Ephesians 4:11-13). • Cultivate humility—“sit down” spiritually—by quieting distractions and listening attentively. • Evaluate motives; pursue obedience, not mere information, when approaching God’s Word (James 1:22-25). |
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