How does Ezekiel 21:1 demonstrate God's communication through His prophets today? The Verse at a Glance “And the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” (Ezekiel 21:1) Key Observations about God’s Communication • Word-initiated: God, not Ezekiel, starts the conversation. • Personal: “to me” underscores that God addresses a specific servant. • Verbal and clear: A “word” is intelligible, not vague impression. • Authoritative: The message carries the LORD’s weight, not the prophet’s opinion. How the Pattern Applies Today • Same Initiator – God still takes the first step, chiefly through the completed Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16). • Same Medium – He speaks in discernible words preserved in the Bible, ensuring nothing essential is left to guesswork (Psalm 119:105). • Same Messengers – While canonical prophecy is finished (Hebrews 1:1-2), God continues to employ human voices—pastors, teachers, and faithful believers—who proclaim that written word (Romans 10:14-17). • Same Authority – Any claimed “word from God” today must align with Scripture; God does not contradict Himself (Galatians 1:8). • Same Purpose – Conviction of sin, call to obedience, revelation of God’s character—just as Ezekiel’s messages did (John 16:8). Listening and Responding • Attend to the written Word daily; expect God to speak through it. • Test every modern message by the biblical text (Acts 17:11). • Submit promptly when God’s Word confronts attitudes or actions. • Share the Scripture faithfully, knowing God still addresses hearts through willing servants (1 Peter 4:11). Supporting Passages • Amos 3:7 – God reveals His plans through prophets. • 2 Peter 1:20-21 – Prophecy originates as men speak “from God.” • John 10:27 – “My sheep hear My voice.” • Hebrews 4:12 – The Word remains “living and active.” Takeaway Points • Ezekiel 21:1 is more than history; it models ongoing, divine-human communication. • God’s voice is clearest in Scripture, carried to us by Spirit-filled messengers. • Hearing always obligates heeding; Scripture heard is Scripture to be obeyed today. |
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