Introductory
Note to Chapters 33-39
These chapters
all belong, to the second period of the prophets’ ministry after the fall of
Jerusalem (see Introduction and Analysis). The only mention of a date is 33:21,
but the prophecies all presuppose that God’s judgment upon the guilty city and
nation, long predicted, has come to pass.
Study 22 From the Book of
Ezekiel is: Ezekiel 33
The prophet had known from
the first that part of his commission was to be a watchman (cf. 3:16-21), but
now the time had come to put it into practice: for in the new era that was dawning,
only those who individually repented and returned to God would live.
1.
In
what terms does Ezekiel express the need for repentance? What kind of behaviour
is expected of the wicked man when he repents? Cf. Acts 26:20; Rev. 2:5.
2.
Compare
the two current sayings quoted in verses 10 and 24. Observe where they were
current, and how the one is despairing, the other confident. What is God’s
answer in each case?
3.
Why
did the prophet suddenly become more bold to speak, and the people more curious
to hear his words? See verses 30-33. What, however, was lacking in their new
interest? Cf. Mt. 7:26, 27.
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