In what ways can we be "men of sign" in today's world? Rooted in the Text “Thus Ezekiel will be a sign to you; you will do just as he has done. Then you will know that I am the LORD GOD.” The Meaning of a Sign • A sign points away from itself to something greater—God’s character and purposes (Isaiah 8:18). • A sign is visible, unmistakable, and purposely set in front of people (Matthew 5:14). • A sign is often costly for the one who bears it, yet glorifies the Lord (2 Corinthians 4:10-11). Practical Pathways to Being Men of Sign • Consistent, Counter-Cultural Obedience – Live the Word even when it clashes with popular opinion (Acts 5:29). – Keep commitments, speak truth, show sexual purity; the contrast itself signals God’s holiness (Philippians 2:15). • Joyful Endurance in Suffering – When hardship comes, refuse bitterness; display hope that confounds observers (1 Peter 3:14-15). – Like Ezekiel, accept that personal trials can become object lessons of God’s faithfulness. • Sacrificial Love in Everyday Rhythms – Serve the overlooked, forgive quickly, give generously (John 13:34-35). – Use homes, schedules, and resources as platforms to showcase Christ’s compassion. • Public Identification with Christ – Speak His name naturally at work, in conversations, online (Romans 1:16). – Refuse to compartmentalize faith; integrate Scripture into decisions and counsel. • Prophetic Clarity and Moral Courage – Call sin what God calls it, yet offer the gospel remedy (Isaiah 58:1; 2 Timothy 4:2). – Defend life, marriage, and justice for the vulnerable; society reads the sign. • Humble Dependence on the Spirit – Daily prayer and Scripture intake keep the sign illuminated (John 15:5). – Prompt obedience to the Spirit’s nudges turns ordinary moments into divine appointments. Guardrails for Staying Faithful • Guard the heart from pride; the sign must not eclipse the Savior (James 4:6). • Stay accountable within a local church; lone signs dim quickly (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Continually assess motives—seek God’s glory, not personal recognition (1 Corinthians 10:31). Encouragement from Scripture • “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before men” (Matthew 5:14-16). • “We are ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20). • “Do everything without grumbling or arguing… then you will shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:14-15). Live so unmistakably for Christ that, like Ezekiel, your life itself becomes a divine billboard: a man of sign directing every onlooker to the living Lord. |
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