God Will Restore Israel

Ezekiel 11:14–25
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God promised the exiles in Babylon that He would continue to be with them even though they were not in Jerusalem (vv. 14-15). This was a major concern to the Jews because they believed that God was present primarily in the temple. However God assured them that He would continue to be their God regardless of where they were in this world. The most comforting words spoken by the Lord thus far, in this prophecy, are found in this passage(vv. 16-21). The Jews will be taken captive, but also preserved, regathered, given the land, and converted upon their return.

God says that the Jews in captivity are the faithful ones, and those in Jerusalem are the sinful and wicked ones. This was the opposite of the people’s perception. God provided a sanctuary for this idolatrous remnant, even though they worshiped in the Jerusalem temple. However in reality they would find no true sanctuary, but the faithful exiles, even though they were far from home, would be protected by God (v. 16). In other words, our external circumstances do not truly indicate our  standing with God. Those who appear safe and secure may be far from Him, while those going through difficult times may be safely under God’ spiritual protection.

“One heart” indicates a unanimous singleness of purpose (v. 19). This new life can only be the work of the Holy Spirit. It is God’s work, but we must recognize and turn from sin. When we do, God will give us new motives, new guidelines, and new purpose.

Application

God will evaluate my life by my faith and obedience. I can depend on God to keep me safe if I pledge myself to His care.