S) "11 Go to the exiles, to the sons of your people, and speak to them and tell them, whether they listen or not, 'Thus says the Lord God.'"
Ezekiel 3:11 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Ezekiel 3
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Ezekiel 3
O) There are two important lessons to remember, when it comes to Ezekiel's mission. The first lesson, is that there are fundamental differences between the message to God's people, and the message to the rest of the world. Throughout most of the Old Testament, the message to God's people was the law and the prophets, instructing His people how to live. The message to the rest of the world, was that there is only one, true, living God, and His name is the LORD. In both cases, the point is that God is holy, but the methods were different. When Jesus came, the message was different to the Pharisees than it was to just about anyone else. Although all were instructed to stop sinning, the starting point and the message to get there, was considerably different. We see this concept reflected by Paul (see 1 Corinthians 5:9-11), in that there is a different relationship for those who are within the church and those who are not. So, the first lesson from this passage, is that the message differs in execution, depending on the audience. The second lesson from this passage, is that it is not up to us to determine the outcome. Ezekiel was not sent to convince anyone. He was simply sent to tell people the truth.
A) These two points work in concert. As I have gotten a little older (a little), I have an easier time conforming to the first point. When I am talking to another Christian about issues in their life, it's easier for me to go directly to what the Bible actually says. When I am talking to an unbeliever, and they bring up issues in their life, I refrain from giving any kind of advice (unless I'm really pressed), and instead I try to use my own life or experiences as a counterpoint to theirs, in light of the gospel. So, if someone is complaining about their wife, I want to counter by telling them how much God has blessed my marriage. The harder part for me, is actually the second point from the verse above, when I am talking to Christians. Because so much of my life is parenting, and correcting and teaching and, essentially, convincing my children about truths of the world, it's tempting to want to convince other Christians about biblical principles. I need to remember that it's not up to me to convince anyone of what the Bible teaches. It's my responsibility to share truth with my brothers, it's not my responsibility to convince them. I do have a responsibility to tell the truth, but it must always be done with respect and in love. My goal should be unity and understanding. I must learn to let it go, though, when I simply do not see eye to eye with someone, when it's not a matter of salvific doctrine.
P) Father, Your words are truth and life. Help me to keep that in mind at all times. Your words are also deep, and rich, and multifaceted. Please give me better understanding, patience, and wisdom when I am sharing the Word. When I am speaking with those who have not heard the gospel, help me focus on Your grace and mercy and lovingkindness. When I am speaking with those who have already accepted the truth of the gospel, help me to speak about Your righteousness, instruction, and judgment, while still not neglecting the more tender aspects of Your character. In everything, let me seek unity, peace, salvation, and above all, Your glory. Give me the boldness to not shrink away from hard conversations, but also the discernment to see when talking is fruitless. Let Your will be done in all things. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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