In what ways does Ezekiel's mission connect to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Ezekiel’s Mandate (Ezekiel 2–3) • “Son of man, I am sending you … say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD.’ ” (2:3-4) • Sent to “a rebellious house” that may “listen or refuse to listen” (2:5-7) • Equipped by the Spirit, given God’s own words to speak (2:2; 3:1-4) • Appointed “a watchman” to warn; accountable for the people’s response (3:17-19) The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) • “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them … teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” • Backed by Jesus’ absolute authority: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Empowered by His abiding presence: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Key Connections Between the Two Commissions • Divine Authority – Ezekiel: “Thus says the Lord GOD.” – Great Commission: “All authority … has been given to Me.” – Both missions flow from God’s undisputed right to command and judge. • Clear Sending – Ezekiel is explicitly “sent” (2:3). – Disciples are told to “go” (28:19). – Neither mission is self-appointed; both arise from God’s initiative. • Universal Relevance – Ezekiel’s message reaches every stratum of Israel, “whether they listen or refuse” (2:7). – Jesus broadens the scope: “all nations.” – God’s word moves from one nation to every nation, but the call to respond remains absolute. • Call to Repentance and Obedience – Ezekiel must warn of judgment and urge turning back to God (3:18-19). – Disciples must teach converts “to obey everything” Jesus commanded. – Both tasks insist on heart change evidenced by obedient living (cf. James 1:22). • Accountability of the Messenger – Ezekiel bears guilt if he withholds warning (3:18). – Paul echoes this watchman imagery: “I am innocent of the blood of any of you” (Acts 20:26-27). – Likewise, disciple-makers are stewards who must faithfully deliver the gospel (1 Corinthians 4:1-2). • Presence and Empowerment – “The Spirit entered me” (Ezekiel 2:2). – “I am with you always” and “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” (Matthew 28:20; Acts 1:8). – The same God who empowers Ezekiel empowers Christ’s church. • Expectation of Opposition – Ezekiel faces “briers and thorns … scorpions” (2:6). – Jesus forewarns persecution (John 15:18-20); yet the gospel must still advance (2 Timothy 2:9). Living Out the Parallel Today • Speak God’s Word plainly, trusting its power rather than human persuasion (Romans 1:16). • Go to whomever God sends—neighbor or nation—regardless of anticipated response. • Depend on the Spirit for courage and clarity. • Remember both privilege and responsibility: souls hang in the balance (Romans 10:14-17). • Rest in Christ’s promise of unbroken presence as you obey His global call. |
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