The Commission to Speak to Israel refers to the divine mandate given to prophets and leaders in the Old Testament to deliver God's messages to the people of Israel. This commission is a recurring theme throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, highlighting the role of chosen individuals as intermediaries between God and His covenant people. These commissions often involve a call to repentance, a reminder of God's laws, and a foretelling of future events, both blessings and judgments.

Moses' Commission

One of the earliest and most significant commissions is that of Moses. In Exodus 3:10, God calls Moses from the burning bush, saying, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Moses is tasked with leading the Israelites out of bondage and into the Promised Land, serving as a mediator of God's covenant and law. His commission includes delivering the Ten Commandments and establishing the foundation of Israelite worship and society.

The Prophets' Commission

Throughout Israel's history, God raises up prophets to speak His words to the nation. These prophets often begin their ministries with a divine encounter or vision, affirming their authority and mission. For example, Isaiah's commission is recorded in Isaiah 6:8, where he responds to God's call: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'" Isaiah is then sent to deliver messages of both judgment and hope to Israel.

Similarly, Jeremiah's commission is detailed in Jeremiah 1:4-10. God tells him, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). Despite his initial reluctance, Jeremiah is empowered by God to speak against the idolatry and injustice of his time, warning of impending exile while also promising restoration.

Ezekiel's Commission

Ezekiel's commission is marked by vivid visions and symbolic acts. In Ezekiel 2:3-4, God addresses him: "Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against Me. They and their fathers have transgressed against Me to this day." Ezekiel's role is to be a watchman for Israel, conveying God's messages through dramatic signs and prophecies during the Babylonian exile.

The Role of the Commissioned

Those commissioned to speak to Israel are often met with resistance and persecution. Yet, their role is crucial in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people. They are called to be faithful messengers, regardless of the people's response, as seen in Ezekiel 3:17-19, where God emphasizes the prophet's responsibility to warn the wicked.

New Testament Fulfillment

The theme of the commission to speak to Israel finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is both the message and the messenger. In the New Testament, Jesus commissions His disciples to continue this prophetic mission, expanding it to all nations. In Matthew 28:19-20, He instructs them, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

The Commission to Speak to Israel underscores the importance of divine communication and the responsibility of God's chosen messengers to faithfully deliver His word, calling His people to faithfulness and obedience.