What does Ezekiel hearing "a voice speaking to me" teach about divine communication? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 1:28 closes the prophet’s breathtaking vision of God’s glory with these words: “This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell facedown and I heard a voice speaking.” That brief phrase—“I heard a voice speaking”—offers rich insight into how God communicates with His people. God Initiates the Conversation • Divine speech begins with God, not humanity. Ezekiel did not summon or manipulate a revelation; the LORD chose to speak. • Hebrews 1:1–2 reminds us: “On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. But in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son…”. God’s pattern is consistent—He makes the first move. • Because God initiates, His communication carries absolute authority and truth. God Speaks Personally • Ezekiel “heard a voice speaking to me.” The address is individual and direct. • John 10:27 echoes the same personal tone: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Divine communication is never impersonal data; it is relational, aimed at hearts as well as minds. God’s Voice Demands Reverence and Response • Ezekiel’s immediate reaction is to fall facedown. The posture underscores awe. • Psalm 29:4: “The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic.” • Hearing God properly compels worship, obedience, and repentance rather than casual curiosity. The Spirit Enables Hearing • Though Ezekiel 1:28 states the fact of hearing, Ezekiel 2:2 elaborates: “As He spoke to me, the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet…”. • The Holy Spirit bridges the gap between divine speech and human reception, empowering comprehension and courage. Scripture—God’s Primary Channel Today • 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” • Through the written Word, the same authoritative voice that addressed Ezekiel now addresses believers. • Supplementary guidance—promptings, counsel, circumstances—must align with the infallible text. Additional Biblical Snapshots of Divine Speech • Acts 13:2—The Spirit directs the Antioch church, showing God still initiates mission. • Isaiah 30:21—A promise of guidance: “This is the way; walk in it.” • Revelation 3:20—Christ’s knocking voice invites fellowship with individual believers. Practical Implications for Today • Expectation: God continues to speak through Scripture, illuminated by the Spirit. • Reverence: Approach the Word with the same awe Ezekiel showed. • Readiness: Cultivate listening hearts; obedience follows genuine hearing. • Discernment: Measure every claimed revelation against the clear voice already recorded in the Bible. |
    |