Ezekiel chapter 21

It's been a while, I'm actually behind in the Bible study reading schedule now because of the sermons. So this is going backwards for me a little. When we last left our hero, he was being told to make a sign and put it on the road, so that the king of Babylon could find his way to Jerusalem with his army.

vs 21

All various ways of telling the future or looking for answers. "I see great battles, many people killed, and... I think that's a spleen."

vs 22

I'm not sure why he sets up battering rams twice. Perhaps it sounds good to repeat it. Perhaps the first is building them, and the second is putting them to the doors. In any case, he will be told by his augury to go attack Jerusalem. Of course, auguries are not as a rule a good way of asking God what to do, but thankfully he has control over them and can just make you do what he wants.

vs 23

Not sure who this is talking about - is it talking about Jerusalem themselves? Or his other followers? In any case, while some people will see it as false, it will very much truly happen.

vs 24

Open rebellion against Babylon? Or open rebellion against God? I think the point is that, when you have to ask "Which open rebellion am I being punished for?" you know what sort of person you are.

vs 25

Oh dear, not exactly terms of endearment there for the prince.

vs 26

Focusing particularly here on the exalted being brought low. Some lowly person may take his place ruling over rubble, I guess.

vs 27

Can you say Jesus? I mean, I don't know that Israel ever has a 'king' again, more governors and the like. Sure, Herod calls himself a king I think, but really he was just ruling in place of Caesar.

vs 28

So are we now reading a prophecy against Ammon? Because they are making fun of Jerusalem getting squished? That would fit, but doesn't that come in chapter 24? I guess we'll see.

vs 29

The sword comes on all who need judging, on all who are wicked. It might not be coming on Ammon yet, but it will get there in good time. For the moment, Jerusalem needs punishment, because alas, they too are wicked.

vs 30

This is definitely talking about Jerusalem - they will return back to Chaldea, back to where Abram lived, and there they will be judged. Unless Ammon also comes from there... but anyway, the idea of Israel losing their land and going all the way back to Babylon is a hugely powerful picture, to me anyway.

vs 31

Good to know that brutal men skilled in destruction have their place in God's plan. Not so good to know that their place is to come and punish you for your wrongdoings. Erk.

vs 32

Now see, this sounds like Ammon, being remembered no more. Because God won't forget Israel. So in fact, this particular last few verses, I am now convinced, is all about Ammon. Which, well, is bad for Ammon. That's what you get for making fun of God's people... in the end. I doubt the Greens are going to have that happen immediately - but perhaps in the end. Still plenty of time to repent!