What parallels exist between Ezekiel 23:36 and New Testament teachings on sin? Setting the scene: Ezekiel 23:36 “Then the LORD said to me: ‘Son of man, will you judge Oholah and Oholibah? Then confront them with their abominations.’ ” Key ideas in the verse • God Himself initiates judgment. • The prophet is commanded to name sin plainly. • The sins are called “abominations,” underscoring their gravity. • The primary sins in context are spiritual adultery (idolatry) and flagrant immorality. New Testament echoes • Sin must be exposed – “Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11) – “Preach the word… reprove, rebuke, and encourage…” (2 Timothy 4:2) • Judgment starts with God’s own people – “For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God.” (1 Peter 4:17) – Paul commands church discipline inside the fellowship (1 Corinthians 5:12-13). • Spiritual adultery condemned – “You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God?” (James 4:4) – Jesus rebukes Thyatira for tolerating immorality and idolatry (Revelation 2:20-22). • Works of the flesh identified – “The works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry…” (Galatians 5:19-21). – Parallels Ezekiel’s list of abominations. Purpose of confrontation • To lead to repentance (Matthew 18:15-17). • To preserve the holiness of God’s people (Ephesians 5:25-27). • To warn of coming judgment (Romans 6:23). Consequences highlighted in both testaments • Unrepentant sin brings separation and death (Romans 1:24-25; Ezekiel 23:46-49). • Repentance brings restoration (1 John 1:9). Living the lesson today • Call sin what God calls it—no euphemisms or excuses. • Begin self-examination within the household of faith before addressing the world. • Confront with the aim of redemption, not humiliation. • Hold fast to God’s standard of holiness while extending the gospel’s promise of forgiveness to all who turn back to Him. |
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