Topical Encyclopedia
The Call of Ezekiel marks a significant moment in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, as it details the divine commissioning of Ezekiel as a prophet to the exiled Israelites. This event is recorded in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in chapters 1 through 3. Ezekiel, a priest by lineage, is called to serve as a prophet during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty for the people of Judah, who are in Babylonian exile following the destruction of Jerusalem.
Vision of the Glory of God (Ezekiel 1)Ezekiel's call begins with a profound vision of the glory of God. In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while Ezekiel is among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens open, and he sees visions of God (
Ezekiel 1:1). The vision is characterized by a stormy wind coming from the north, a great cloud with flashing fire, and a brilliant light surrounding it. Within this cloud, Ezekiel sees four living creatures, each with four faces and four wings, symbolizing the omnipresence and omnipotence of God.
The vision also includes the appearance of wheels intersecting one another, full of eyes, signifying the all-seeing nature of God. Above the expanse over the heads of the living creatures is a throne, and on the throne is the likeness of a man, radiating the appearance of the glory of the LORD (
Ezekiel 1:26-28). This vision underscores the majesty and holiness of God, setting the stage for Ezekiel's prophetic mission.
The Commissioning of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 2-3)Following the vision, Ezekiel hears the voice of God, who addresses him as "son of man," a term emphasizing his humanity in contrast to the divine glory he has witnessed. God commissions Ezekiel to go to the people of Israel, described as a rebellious nation that has transgressed against Him (
Ezekiel 2:3). Despite their obstinacy and hard-heartedness, Ezekiel is instructed to speak God's words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen (
Ezekiel 2:7).
God equips Ezekiel for his task by giving him a scroll, which is written on both sides with words of lamentation, mourning, and woe. Ezekiel is commanded to eat the scroll, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. Upon consuming it, he finds it as sweet as honey in his mouth (
Ezekiel 3:3), indicating the divine origin and truth of the message he is to deliver.
The Role of a Watchman (Ezekiel 3:16-21)God further defines Ezekiel's role by appointing him as a watchman for the house of Israel. As a watchman, Ezekiel is responsible for warning the wicked of their impending judgment. If he fails to deliver God's warning, he will be held accountable for their blood. However, if he faithfully warns them and they do not repent, he will have saved himself (
Ezekiel 3:18-19). This charge emphasizes the seriousness and urgency of Ezekiel's prophetic mission.
The Empowerment of the Spirit (Ezekiel 3:12-15)Throughout his commissioning, Ezekiel is empowered by the Spirit of God. The Spirit lifts him up and transports him to the exiles at Tel Abib, where he sits among them for seven days, overwhelmed by the vision and the weight of his calling (
Ezekiel 3:14-15). This empowerment by the Spirit is crucial, as it enables Ezekiel to carry out his difficult task amidst a rebellious people.
The Call of Ezekiel is a profound narrative that highlights the sovereignty of God, the responsibility of the prophet, and the enduring hope for repentance and restoration. Through Ezekiel's obedience and the divine message he bears, God continues to reach out to His people, even in their exile and rebellion.
