How should Ezekiel 7:5 influence our urgency in sharing the Gospel? The Verse in Focus Ezekiel 7:5: “This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Disaster after disaster, behold, it comes!’” Context: Judah’s Imminent Judgment • Ezekiel prophesied to a nation that had stubbornly rejected God’s covenant. • The warning is not vague or symbolic—it is literal judgment, certain and near. • God’s repeated call for repentance (Ezekiel 3:17–19; 18:23) shows His heart, yet His holiness demands justice when sin persists. Principles That Sharpen Our Sense of Urgency • Judgment is real and unavoidable – Hebrews 9:27: “Just as man is appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment.” • Judgment can arrive suddenly – 1 Thessalonians 5:3: “While people are saying, ‘Peace and security,’ destruction will come upon them suddenly…” • God’s patience has a limit – 2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is patient… not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” • Disaster “after disaster” underscores compounding consequences—sin snowballs; rescue must be urgent. Translating Ezekiel’s Alarm into Gospel Action Today • See people through the lens of eternity – Every coworker, neighbor, or family member faces either grace or judgment. • Speak plainly about sin and salvation – Romans 1:18 shows wrath against unrighteousness; Romans 5:8 shows Christ’s remedy. • Share the message while doors are still open – Colossians 4:3 calls us to pray “that God may open a door for our message.” • Live a life that validates the Gospel – Philippians 2:15: “Shine like stars in the world.” Credibility accelerates the impact of words. • Combine compassion with clarity – Jude 22–23 urges mercy while “snatching others from the fire.” • Engage in intentional rhythms – Schedule regular outreach moments: personal testimonies, hospitality, community service—conduits for the Good News. Encouragement from New Testament Echoes • Mark 16:15—our marching orders: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” • 2 Corinthians 5:20—our identity: “We are ambassadors for Christ… be reconciled to God.” • Revelation 14:6–7—our alignment with heaven’s priorities: an “eternal gospel” proclaimed before final judgment. Ezekiel’s trumpet blast still reverberates: disaster is coming for those outside Christ, and the only loving response is a swift, fearless, and compassionate proclamation of the Gospel before it arrives. |