Introduction

Ezekiel 3 continues the account of Ezekiel’s divine commissioning, emphasizing his responsibilities as a prophet to Israel. This chapter extends the symbolic act of eating the scroll and delves deeper into the challenges and duties Ezekiel will face, highlighting themes of accountability, obedience, and the seriousness of delivering God’s message to a rebellious nation.

Structure and Content

Eating the Scroll (Ezekiel 3:1-3)

Command to Eat the Scroll

“And he said to me, ‘Son of man, eat what is before you, eat this scroll; then go and speak to the house of Israel.’ So I opened my mouth, and he gave me the scroll to eat” (Ezekiel 3:1). Ezekiel is commanded to eat the scroll containing God’s words, symbolizing his full acceptance and internalization of God’s message before he can communicate it effectively to others.

Taste of the Scroll

“Then he said to me, ‘Son of man, fill your stomach and fill your bowels with this scroll that I give you.’ So I ate it, and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness” (Ezekiel 3:3). The scroll, despite its contents of lamentation and woe, tastes sweet to Ezekiel, suggesting the desirability and richness of God’s word, even when it carries a hard message.

The Prophet as a Watchman (Ezekiel 3:4-27)

Responsibility to Warn the Wicked

“Son of man, go to the house of Israel and speak with my words to them. For you are not sent to a people of foreign speech and a hard language, but to the house of Israel” (Ezekiel 3:4-5). Ezekiel is reminded that his mission is to his own people, whose language and customs he understands, eliminating any barriers to the comprehension of his message.

Role of the Watchman

“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me” (Ezekiel 3:17). As a watchman, Ezekiel’s duty is to warn the people of the consequences of their sin, serving as an intermediary between God and the people to promote repentance.

Consequences of Ignoring the Warning

“If I say to the wicked, ‘You shall surely die,’ and you give him no warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way, in order to save his life, that wicked person shall die for his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand” (Ezekiel 3:18). Ezekiel is warned that failing to deliver God’s message makes him accountable for the resultant consequences, underscoring the serious responsibility of his prophetic role.

The Restriction of Ezekiel’s Movement

“And I will make your tongue cling to the roof of your mouth, so that you shall be mute and unable to reprove them, for they are a rebellious house” (Ezekiel 3:26). This temporary muteness symbolizes the periods when Ezekiel will be restrained from prophesying, reflecting the people’s unwillingness to hear and respond to God’s message.

Connections to New Testament Teachings

Connection to Jesus Christ

Ezekiel’s role as a watchman parallels Christ’s ministry, where He warned of judgment but also offered the hope of salvation. Jesus, like Ezekiel, was sent to His own, and He spoke God’s truth to them, calling for repentance and a return to God.

God’s Love for the World

The commissioning of Ezekiel reflects God’s persistent love and His desire to communicate with His people, not wishing any to perish but for all to come to repentance. This mirrors the gospel message where God’s love is fully manifested in Jesus Christ, offering redemption to all mankind.

Why the Bible Chapter Still Matters Today

The Importance of Heeding God’s Word

Ezekiel 3 emphasizes the importance of listening to and obeying God’s Word, a principle that remains vital for Christians today, guiding them in truth and wisdom.

Responsibility of Believers to Witness

Just as Ezekiel was tasked with warning his people, believers are called to share the gospel, highlighting the reality of sin and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ.

Encouragement in Divine Empowerment

Ezekiel’s empowerment by God reassures believers that when God calls them to a task, He also enables them to accomplish it, providing the necessary strength and wisdom.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 3 offers profound insights into the responsibilities and challenges of those called to deliver God’s message. It calls for courage, obedience, and faithfulness in fulfilling God’s purposes, providing timeless lessons for believers in every generation.