How can Ezekiel 3:11 inspire us to share God's truth today? Ezekiel’s Commission in Context • Ezekiel 3:11: “Go to your people, the exiles; speak to them and tell them, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says’—whether they listen or refuse to listen.” • God sends Ezekiel to captives in Babylon, a setting of discouragement and spiritual apathy—yet His command is clear and non-negotiable. Timeless Principles Drawn from the Verse • God’s Word, not our opinion, is central—“This is what the Lord GOD says.” • The audience may accept or reject, but the messenger’s duty remains unchanged. • Obedience precedes outcome; success is measured by faithfulness, not visible results. • The message targets “your people,” reminding us to start with those nearest—family, friends, coworkers, neighbors. Motivation for Today’s Believer • The same God who commissioned Ezekiel commissions us (Matthew 28:19-20). • The gospel is still “the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16); it never loses relevance. • Refusal to listen does not invalidate the message (2 Timothy 4:2). • God equips the called—He filled Ezekiel with His Spirit (Ezekiel 3:24); He fills us likewise (Acts 1:8). Practical Ways to Embrace Ezekiel 3:11 1. Ground yourself daily in Scripture so you speak God’s words, not merely good ideas. 2. Identify “your people”—those in your sphere of influence—and pray for specific opportunities. 3. Share faithfully, leaving the response to God; avoid discouragement when results are unseen. 4. Use clear, simple language: “This is what the Lord GOD says,” followed by the plain truth of the gospel. 5. Model integrity; let your life authenticate your lips (Philippians 2:15-16). 6. Keep eternal perspective—heaven records obedience even when earth seems indifferent. Scriptures that Echo the Same Call • 2 Corinthians 5:20—“We are ambassadors for Christ.” • Acts 4:20—“We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • Colossians 4:5-6—“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders... let your speech always be gracious.” • Jeremiah 1:7—“You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.” Key Takeaways • God’s command to speak remains valid regardless of the listener’s response. • Faithfulness is measured by obedience, not popularity. • Starting with those nearest to us follows God’s pattern. • The indwelling Spirit supplies courage and clarity. • Like Ezekiel, we are watchmen; silence is never an option when souls are at stake. |
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