The Rebellions of Israel

Ezekiel 20:1–16
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Years ago, I read about a railroad that conducted an experiment. It purchased two new locomotives. One was kept in constant service, regardless of Sunday. In the use of the other, late each Saturday they pulled its fire and released the steam. On Sunday it was allowed to co … More

Sabbath

In this passage Ezekiel gave a panoramic view of Israel’s history (vv. 1-4). The Lord refused to be inquired of by the leaders because of their insincerity. Had they forsaken their sins and come to Him in true repentance, He would have listened. Instead, Ezekiel was to judge them in the sense of pointing out their sins to them. He gives the message that the people alone are responsible for the troubles and judgments they have experiences.

The day when I chose Israel, referred to here, was in Egypt (v. 5). Even before Israel was a nation, God had chosen them when He chose Abraham (Ex. 6:6-8). Israel had become an actual nation of people by this time. At the same time, He had selected, for them a land, a land belonging to Israel by sovereign choice. The frequent use of the phrase flowing with milk and honey is proverbial of great abundance and plenty (v.6). That Israel had already been worshiping idols in Egypt is explicitly stated only here, though it is intimated by such occasions as the golden calf incident in the wilderness (vv. 7-8). God first had thoughts of judgment against Israel in Egypt because of her idolatry. God very dramatically proved Himself greater than the gods of Egypt in the contest of the ten plagues (vv. 9-11)

The observance of the Sabbath began at Sinai, and it served as a special sign between the people and the Lord (vv. 11-16). It showed their dependence on Him to supply their need by not working on the seventh day. In turn, God had promised to care for them. This day of rest was a gift from a loving God, not a difficult obligation. But the people repeatedly desecrated the Sabbath and ignored their God. God’s purpose for the Sabbath was that He wants us to rest, to refocus and to remember Him.

Application

Sunday has always been a special day in our family and I want to always honor the Lord on that day.

Ezekiel 20:1-16 (English Standard Version)

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