What does Ezekiel 28:21 reveal about God's holiness and justice? Setting the Scene • Ezekiel 28:21: “Son of man, set your face toward Sidon and prophesy against her.” • The verse opens a short oracle (vv. 21-23) announcing judgment on the Phoenician city of Sidon. • God directly commissions Ezekiel, underscoring that the coming pronouncement is His own undeniable word. Holiness Unveiled • God singles out Sidon because her idolatry and violence offend His perfect purity—He cannot overlook sin (Habakkuk 1:13; 1 Peter 1:15-16). • “Set your face” signals an unwavering, righteous resolve; the prophet’s steadfast posture mirrors God’s absolute moral integrity. • The command comes without negotiation or delay, illustrating that divine holiness acts decisively when confronted with persistent evil. Justice on Display • “Prophesy against her” shows that judgment is not random but a measured response to real transgression (Romans 2:5-6). • God names the city, proving that He judges specific wrongdoing, not faceless masses—every deed is weighed (Proverbs 16:11). • By speaking before the judgment falls, He provides fair warning; justice includes disclosure and opportunity for repentance (Jonah 3:4; 2 Peter 3:9). Key Takeaways • God’s holiness refuses to compromise with sin; His justice guarantees sin will be addressed. • Divine judgment is never impulsive—He identifies the offender, states the charge, and follows through righteously. • The verse reminds us that holiness and justice are not opposing traits; they work together in perfect harmony. Supporting Scripture • Leviticus 19:2—“Be holy, because I, the LORD your God, am holy.” • Psalm 89:14—“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne.” • Ezekiel 18:30—“Therefore, I will judge each of you according to his ways…Repent and turn from all your transgressions.” |
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