Reading for March 4th

ORACLES AND VISIONS OF RESORATION Chs -48: After the fall of Jerusalem (33.21-22), the book emphasizes restoration for Israel (chs. 33-39) and the Temple (chs. 40-48). Chs. 33-39: Oracles of restoration for Israel. News of Jerusalem's fall enables Ezekiel to speak (3.22-27). Many attribute Ezekiel's earlier silence to prophetic practice, but his priestly identity calls for him to serve at the alter in silence. After the Fall of the Temple, he can speak. Read Ezekiel 33.1-9 In 33.1-33: Ezekiel's responsibilites as Israel's sentinel. In keeping with the role of the priest to observe God's requirements for Temple service, the prophet now stands as sentinel or "watchman" on behalf of the people so that they will observe God's requirements. In verses 1-9: God establishes the analogy between the role of the prophet and that of a sentinel who stands watch over a city. The sentinel is not responsible for the fate of the people if he warns them, but he is fully responsible if he does not. The passage presupposes that the threats of death for the wicked can be reversed if they change their ways. Comments or Questions..