How does Ezekiel 3:22 demonstrate God's direct communication with His prophets today? Verse at a Glance “ ‘And the hand of the LORD was upon me there, and He said to me, “Get up, go out to the plain, and there I will speak with you.”’ ” (Ezekiel 3:22) Setting the Scene • Ezekiel has already seen the glory of the LORD (Ezekiel 1–2). • He is now in Tel-abib among exiles; God interrupts daily life “there.” • The command is precise: rise, relocate, listen. Key Truths about God’s Voice in Ezekiel 3:22 1. God initiates. – “The hand of the LORD was upon me there” echoes 1 Samuel 3:10; John 15:16. 2. God speaks personally. – “He said to me” shows direct address, not mere impression or committee decision (Numbers 12:6-8). 3. God sets the terms. – Location (“the plain”), timing (“get up”), and promise (“I will speak with you”) all come from Him. 4. God’s purpose is revelatory, not vague. – The prophet expects actual words, later recorded as Scripture (2 Peter 1:20-21). 5. Obedience unlocks further revelation. – Ezekiel only hears the next message once he acts on the first. Implications for Prophets Today • Same Initiator: The Lord still pursues hearts with specific callings (Acts 13:2). • Same Relational Voice: Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice” (John 10:27). • Same Authority Boundary: All present-day prophetic words must harmonize with the closed canon of Scripture (Galatians 1:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). • Same Expectation of Clarity: God does not mumble; He communicates truth that can be understood and conveyed (1 Corinthians 14:3). • Same Demand for Obedience: Revelation is entrusted to those ready to act on it (James 1:22). Safeguards for Hearing God Now • Test every impression against the written Word (Isaiah 8:20). • Seek the confirming witness of the Spirit and mature believers (Proverbs 11:14). • Watch for fruit that honors Christ, not the messenger (Matthew 7:15-20). • Remain humble; prophetic ministry is service, not status (1 Peter 5:5-6). Encouragement for the Listener Ezekiel 3:22 invites modern servants to expect God’s direct guidance while staying anchored to Scripture. The same hand that rested on Ezekiel still rests on those willing to rise, move at His word, and listen for His voice. |
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