What does "set your face against Jerusalem" teach about God's judgment on sin? Setting the Scene: Ezekiel 21:2 “Son of man, set your face against Jerusalem and preach against the sanctuaries. Prophesy against the land of Israel.” Understanding “Set Your Face” - Hebrew idiom for deliberate, unwavering determination - Signals an intentional, fixed stance—God is not wavering or negotiating - Same wording used of Christ in Luke 9:51 when He “set His face” toward the cross—purposeful resolve Jerusalem: The Object of Divine Focus - City chosen for God’s Name (2 Chronicles 6:6), now the focus of judgment - Sin was not hidden inside its walls—idolatry thrived in “the sanctuaries” that should have been holy - Judgment begins with the household of God (1 Peter 4:17) The Nature of God’s Judgment in Ezekiel 21 - Personal: “I will draw My sword” (v. 3)—judgment comes straight from the Lord, not mere historical accident - Comprehensive: “from the righteous to the wicked” (v. 4)—no partiality once sin is tolerated - Swift and unstoppable: “My sword will flash” (v. 5) - Public and undeniable: everyone “will know that I, the Lord, have drawn My sword” Why Sin Draws God’s Severe Attention • Covenant Violation – Israel broke the marriage vows of Sinai (Exodus 19:5–6). – God is faithful; unfaithfulness must be addressed (Jeremiah 2:19). • Holiness of His Name – God’s reputation is tied to His people (Ezekiel 36:22). – Persistent sin profanes that Name; judgment defends it. • Protection of the Remnant – Purging wickedness preserves a holy seed (Isaiah 6:13). – Judgment clears away what endangers future blessing. Key Takeaways for Today - God still “sets His face” against sin inside His people before He addresses the world outside. - Delayed judgment is not canceled judgment (2 Peter 3:9–10). - Repentance remains the only escape: “Return to Me, and I will return to you” (Zechariah 1:3). - Holiness is serious business; grace never excuses rebellion but empowers obedience (Titus 2:11–12). Other Passages Echoing the Same Warning - Ezekiel 5:8: “I am against you, and I will execute judgments.” - Jeremiah 21:10: “I have set My face against this city for harm.” - Amos 9:8: “Behold, the eyes of the Lord GOD are on the sinful kingdom, and I will destroy it.” Living in Light of the Lesson • Revere God’s holiness—treat sin as seriously as He does. • Examine personal and corporate worship—keep the “sanctuaries” pure. • Embrace Christ’s atonement—He bore the sword of judgment so repentant sinners could be spared (Isaiah 53:5). |
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