Ezekiel Reinforces the Law

In Calcutta, India, a vulture hovering over the city caused two Indian air force fighters to collide and spin into the crowded city, killing nine persons and injuring thirty-seven. The vulture flew into the path of six planes flying in formation over the city. The bird hit … More

Consequences

At the very beginning of Israel’s history, God clearly warned the people about the consequences of disobedience (Duet. 28:15). When the people disobeyed, God let them experience many devastating consequences, to remind them of the seriousness of their sins. The second generation continued in the same path as their parents (vv. 17-24). Again, the Lord did not consume them, because of His mercy. Though this generation did enter the land, the Lord predicted dispersion from it. This was, and has been, carried out several times in Israel’s history. Never is the Lord to be held responsible for leading anyone into sin (Jam 1:13). However, He does allow the rebellious sinner to go his way and receive the wages of sin (Rom 1:24, 26, 28; 6:23).

Why would God give them laws that weren’t good (vv. 25-26)?  This doesn’t refer to any aspect of the Mosaic law. Instead Ezekiel is reinforcing the law. Evidently the Jews had taken the dedication of the firstborn animals and children (Ex. 13:12) as a justification for child sacrifice. God was giving them over to the delusion of their minds to get them to acknowledge Him and to jar their consciences. Israel blasphemed God by taking the very things they should have offered to Him, such as blood sacrifice, incense, and gifts; and offered them to false gods that they adopted when entering the land (vv. 27-28). They polluted themselves with all their idols (vv. 27-28).  They were doing the very same thing their forefathers had done, and God had dealt with them. Now judgment must take place.

Application

If I choose to live for myself, apart from God, I may experience some very destructive consequences. However, even through such consequences, God can use these things to  draw me to Himself. May every circumstance of my life bring me to my senses and to our merciful God before it is too late.

Ezekiel 20:17-32 (English Standard Version)


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