EZEKIEL

177
One thing which we must remember concerning the book of Ezekiel is that it contains the prophetic voice of the cause of their captivity in Babylon and their subsequent delivery from captivity. Therefore its message was fulfilled in their release from Babylon and their return to the land of Israel. Israel, after the flesh, (1 Cor. 10:18) did not continue in the land because they continued their idolatrous ways. Jerusalem was destroyed and they were driven out again after the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus. Consequently these prophecies do not pertain to a natural people of this day and time. Paul, an Israeli of the most religiously educated kind, asked and answered his own question as to the identification of the new testament Jew, those of the gospel dispensation. He is not recognized by natural birth or after the flesh but after the spirit. Rom. 2:28-29 As a result, the promises and the blessings of the Lord are directed toward those who are the spiritual seed of Abraham. Again, Paul plainly states that those who are after the flesh and have not embraced the promises of life in Christ, are not the children of God. But, the children of promise are those who are in Christ Jesus. None are barred from this status, which includes those after the flesh, providing there is repentance and acceptance of the one who bears the name, the Lord Jesus Christ. There is salvation in no other name. Acts 4:12.

Not only was the name of the Lord profaned in the home land but where ever these expatriates went they continued to pollute the name and the reputation of their God among the heathen. Eze. 36:10-20 But the Lord exercised pity on them, not because of who they were but because of His Holy Name. His name is of utmost importance to Him. His actions were based, not on the people, but for His Holy nameís sake.
Eze. 36:21-22 Their return to Jerusalem was not because of their repentance and change of heart but as the Lord said; I will sanctify my great name. To show the holiness, the power and the authority of His name. Do you know His name? It is not God, that is who and what He is, but not His name. His name is of the utmost importance to us, for salvation is in His name. Acts 4:12 All authority is available in His name. John 14:13 His presence is where His people gather in His name. Mt. 18:20 Signs follow those who believe in His name and in that glorious name they cast out devils and speak in new tongues. Mark 16:17 God, has given Him the greatest name of time or eternity. A name which all must acknowledge either now or in the future.
Phil. 2:9-11.

Leave a Reply