What role does prophecy play in understanding God's will in Ezekiel 11:4? Setting the Scene Ezekiel, already exiled in Babylon, is carried by the Spirit to Jerusalem. There he sees “twenty‐five men” (Ezekiel 11:1) — civic and religious leaders who foster a false sense of security. God exposes their schemes and commissions Ezekiel to speak. The Scriptural Focus “Therefore prophesy against them; prophesy, O son of man!” (Ezekiel 11:4) What Prophecy Achieves in This Moment • Direct transmission of God’s mind • Public indictment of hidden sin • Authoritative announcement of coming judgment • Urgent call to repentance for the hearers • Assurance to the faithful remnant that God is still in control Prophecy as a Window into God’s Will 1. Revelation of Hidden Realities • God knows the leaders’ secret plans (vv. 2–3). • Hebrews 4:13 — “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” 2. Clarification of Divine Standards • The contrast between God’s holiness and their corruption becomes unmistakable. • Isaiah 55:8–9 — His thoughts and ways are higher. 3. Warning and Judgment • Prophecy functions as the legal notice before the execution of justice. • Jeremiah 18:7–8 — Judgment may relent if repentance follows. 4. Preservation of a Faithful Remnant • Even in judgment, God promises to be “a sanctuary” for the exiles (Ezekiel 11:16). • Romans 11:5 — God keeps a remnant “chosen by grace.” 5. Validation of the Prophet’s Message • When the predicted events unfold, listeners know the message was truly from God (Deuteronomy 18:21–22). • 2 Peter 1:19 — Prophecy is “a light shining in a dark place.” How This Shapes Our Understanding of God’s Will Today • God still speaks with clarity and authority through His written prophetic word. • His will includes both mercy and judgment, perfectly balanced. • He desires repentance, not ruin—prophecy provides the chance to turn. • Fulfilled prophecy assures us that every remaining promise will also stand (Matthew 24:35). Key Takeaway In Ezekiel 11:4, prophecy is the divinely appointed means by which God unveils His will, confronts sin, and extends a path to restoration—demonstrating that His word is both the standard and the safeguard for His people. |
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