Ezekiel, a priest and prophet, is one of the major prophetic figures in the Old Testament. His call and commission are pivotal moments that set the stage for his prophetic ministry to the exiled Israelites in Babylon. This event is recorded in the book of Ezekiel, chapters 1 through 3, and provides profound insights into the nature of prophetic calling, divine revelation, and the responsibilities of a prophet.

Vision of God's Glory (Ezekiel 1)

Ezekiel's call begins with a remarkable vision of God's glory. In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens were opened, and Ezekiel saw visions of God (Ezekiel 1:1). The vision is characterized by a stormy wind, a great cloud with flashing fire, and brilliant light. Within this vision, Ezekiel sees four living creatures, each with four faces and four wings, symbolizing the omnipresence and omnipotence of God. Above them is a firmament, and above the firmament is a throne with the appearance of sapphire. Seated on the throne is a figure with the likeness of a man, radiating the appearance of fire and brilliant light, described as the glory of the LORD (Ezekiel 1:26-28).

The Call to Prophecy (Ezekiel 2:1-7)

Following the vision, Ezekiel hears the voice of God, who addresses him as "son of man," a term emphasizing his humanity in contrast to the divine majesty he has witnessed. God commands Ezekiel to stand on his feet, and the Spirit enters him, setting him on his feet and enabling him to hear God's words (Ezekiel 2:1-2). God commissions Ezekiel to go to the rebellious house of Israel, a nation described as obstinate and stubborn. Despite their rebellion, Ezekiel is instructed to speak God's words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen (Ezekiel 2:3-7). This underscores the prophet's role as a faithful messenger, regardless of the people's response.

The Scroll and the Commission (Ezekiel 2:8-3:3)

God presents Ezekiel with a scroll, written on both sides with words of lamentation, mourning, and woe. Ezekiel is commanded to eat the scroll, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. As he consumes it, he finds it as sweet as honey in his mouth (Ezekiel 3:1-3). This act signifies the prophet's acceptance of his divine commission and the bittersweet nature of delivering God's message of judgment and hope.

The Role of a Watchman (Ezekiel 3:16-21)

Ezekiel's commission includes the role of a watchman for the house of Israel. God instructs him to warn the wicked of their impending judgment and to call them to repentance. If Ezekiel fails to deliver the warning, he will be held accountable for their blood. However, if he faithfully warns them and they do not repent, he will have saved himself (Ezekiel 3:17-19). This emphasizes the prophet's responsibility to speak God's truth and the serious consequences of neglecting this duty.

Empowerment and Isolation (Ezekiel 3:22-27)

The Spirit lifts Ezekiel and takes him to the plain, where he again sees the glory of the LORD. God instructs him to go into his house and shut himself in, symbolizing the isolation often experienced by prophets. Ezekiel's tongue is made to stick to the roof of his mouth, rendering him mute except when God opens his mouth to speak His words (Ezekiel 3:24-27). This divine control over Ezekiel's speech highlights the authority and sovereignty of God in the prophetic ministry.

Ezekiel's call and commission are foundational to understanding his prophetic mission. Through vivid visions, divine commands, and symbolic acts, God prepares Ezekiel to deliver a challenging message to a rebellious people, emphasizing themes of judgment, accountability, and the hope of restoration.