What role does prophecy play in understanding God's plans in Ezekiel 11:25? Setting the Scene Ezekiel is among the Jewish exiles in Babylon when God carries him by the Spirit to Jerusalem in a vision (Ezekiel 11:1). There he sees God’s glory departing the temple, hears judgments pronounced on corrupt leaders, and receives promises of future restoration (Ezekiel 11:14-21). When the vision ends, Ezekiel returns to the exiles and speaks. The Verse in Focus “I told the exiles everything the LORD had shown me.” (Ezekiel 11:25) Prophecy as God’s Communication of His Plans • Prophecy reveals—not guesses at—God’s intentions. • It bridges heaven and earth, turning unseen plans into spoken words humans can grasp. • Because God does not lie (Numbers 23:19), a prophetic word is as certain as history already written. • Prophecy often carries both warning and hope, showing consequences for rebellion while unveiling redemption. Why Ezekiel’s Prophetic Report Matters • Confirmation of God’s nearness: Though exiled, the people learn God still speaks and governs events. • Direction for the present: The announced judgment explains why Jerusalem will fall, urging repentance. • Assurance for the future: Promises of a new heart, a united land, and God’s abiding presence (Ezekiel 11:17-20) anchor the exiles’ hope. • Accountability: By telling “everything,” Ezekiel transfers responsibility—listeners must now respond to the revealed will of God. Practical Takeaways for Us Today • Treasure the whole counsel of God; selective hearing misses vital parts of His plan. • Measure today’s turbulence against God’s foretold purposes; prophecy steadies faith when circumstances shake. • Share Scripture faithfully—altering or withholding God’s message distorts His plan and harms hearers (Jeremiah 26:2). • Expect fulfillment: What God promises He performs (Ezekiel 12:25); thus, every unfulfilled prophecy is a guaranteed future reality. Supporting Scriptures • Amos 3:7 — “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.” • 2 Peter 1:19 — Prophecy is “a lamp shining in a dark place” until Christ’s return. • Revelation 19:10 — “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” • Isaiah 46:9-10 — God declares “the end from the beginning,” ensuring His counsel stands. |
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