by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 20:45 - 21:32
BACKGROUND
This is another section of judgment, but that's not a surprise. God demonstrates that He is the one judging, and is using a human army to do so.
First, God identifies the target (20:45-49) and told Ezekiel to "set his face against" the Negev to the south. Judah and Jerusalem were to the south of where Ezekiel was (Babylon). So God was about to unleash His judgment on Judah and Jerusalem.
Then, in chapter 21, God drew His sword and sharpened it to use it against them. He directed Ezekiel to cry out, wail, and moan because of the death and destruction. Ezekiel's cries would melt the hearts of those who heard them.
Beginning in verse 18, the sword is revealed as Babylon. God will use the king and army of Babylon to accomplish His purpose in Jerusalem and Judah. The army will come to a point where they have to decide whether to march toward Ammon or Judah, and they will decide to attack Judah and will destroy it.
God will not forget the Ammonites, however. Their turn for judgment will come as well (vs 28). Ammon had joined the alliance (along with Judah and other nations) against Babylon, so Babylon won't forget about them. God will pour out His wrath on them, and their destruction will be complete. Ammon will never be restored but will be forgotten.
REFLECTION
Ezekiel referred to King Zedekiah as "the prince of Israel" in verse 25 and said he will be brought down low. He was the last king of David's line, and there will be no other until "He comes whose right it is." Who has the right to be king? Jesus! There will be no king on David's throne until Jesus himself claims the throne. Even in this description of the coming horrible destruction, God slips in a reminder of the coming Messiah.
That's all for today. Keep reading!
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