What does "I said to you, 'Live!'" reveal about God's authority over life? The Setting of Ezekiel 16:6 “When I passed by you and saw you wallowing in your blood, I said to you, ‘Live!’ I said to you, while you were in your blood, ‘Live!’” Key Observations about the Phrase “I said to you, ‘Live!’” • God alone issues the command to live; no other voice is consulted or required. • The command is given to someone utterly helpless—“wallowing in your blood”—showing that life originates outside the recipient. • The repetition (“I said… I said…”) underscores certainty and authority; what God declares happens. What This Reveals about God’s Authority over Life • Exclusive Source: As in Genesis 2:7, God breathes life; Ezekiel 16 portrays the same Creator now restoring life to the helpless. • Sovereign Decision: Deuteronomy 32:39—“I put to death and I bring to life”—matches the unilateral declaration in Ezekiel. • Effectual Word: Isaiah 55:11 affirms that God’s word accomplishes its purpose; here, the word “Live!” instantly effects life. • Compassionate Sovereignty: Authority is exercised with mercy. The abandoned infant receives life because God chooses to love (cf. Ephesians 2:4-5). • Foreshadowing Resurrection Power: John 5:21—“the Son gives life to whom He will.” The Old Testament picture anticipates Christ’s life-giving authority. Practical Takeaways • Physical life and spiritual rebirth rest solely on God’s command; human effort cannot attain either. • Assurance flows from God’s unchangeable word; if He has said “Live,” the believer’s life is secure. • Every testimony of salvation echoes Ezekiel 16:6—God finds the sinner, speaks life, and the dead soul lives. |
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