Ezekiel 2
Ezekiel’s calling is the briefest chapter of this prophetic book, but it’s chock-full of truth for those called to speak truth to their generation.
First, Ezekiel must stand (1) because he was humbled to the ground in the prior moments (see chapter 1). When God calls a man or woman for a specific work, He often humbles them first, often by taking them through some difficult trial. Only those who know Who God is and who is not can serve as His mouthpiece.
Secondly, God gives His mouthpiece His Spirit (2). This is different from the moment of salvation, and it is also not what Pentecostals might call a ‘second blessing.’ The Puritans used to call it “unction” - an anointing by the Spirit that enables the called to fulfill the calling. What God demands, God enables.
Third, the prophet of God does not speak their own words; they hear the words of God (2b) and relay those. Those words may be custom-fitted for their time and place, but it will always accord completely with the Scripture.
Fourth, God will often send His called speakers to those who will not respond favorably. Why? So that they know that a prophet of God was among them (5). This way, they are without excuse (cf. Romans 1:20 & 2:1).
Therefore, what is needed most for God’s called is to overcome their fear of man (6). The darkness will not go quietly into oblivion; it fights back, with cutting slanders and stinging insults. Yet sometimes what unsettles the most is “their looks” (6b). “Why can’t you just leave well enough alone?” That look of a friend that says, “I didn’t know you were an extremist” can be even more dismaying than the insults of an enemy.
One must remember they speak to you this way because “they are a rebellious house” (6c). Remember this and then continue to speak.
Finally, the mouthpiece of God must not become so focused on his rebellious generation that he falls and becomes rebellious like them himself (8). Take heed, lest ye fall (1 Cor. 10:12) and be disqualified, God says (1 Cor. 9:27). To ensure this does not happen, God’s mouthpieces must feast on God’s Word, as if it is their very food for life (2:9-3:1).
August 30