Ezekiel chapter 33 is sort of a “turning point” in the Book. Chapters 1-32 mostly deal with “judgment,” with only sight intervals of “grace.” But chapters 33 through 48 (generally) seem to concentrate more on “hope,” a much brighter future for Israel and her people.
Verses 1-9 return to the theme of Ezekiel being a “watchman” to the Jews. The word means a “look-out,” sort of a “guard” even, and once a “spy!” Warning against sin! Appealing to their collective conscience! Foretelling the coming (sure) judgment!
Then verse 11 is precious as well, “classic” in fact. “As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have NO PLEASURE in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live.” Thrilling! (This line contradicts some who believe “God has as much pleasure in sending a man to hell as He does in saving a soul from sin.” Or at least derives as much Glory from the one as the other! I disagree!)
Then I love verse 22 personally. “Now the HAND OF THE LORD was upon me in the evening,” that particular clause. Oh, to have God’s Hand upon us, in power and grace and utility! Remember the prayer of Jabez? “And he called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, AND THAT THINE HAND MIGHT BE WITH ME, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil.” Wow! And Nehemiah? “Then I told them of THE HAND OF MY GOD which was good UPON ME.” (Quoting parts of both 1st Chronicles 4:10 and Nehemiah 2:18.)
But the chapter’s last 4 verses today impress me the most. God seems to be encouraging his man, Ezekiel. But in a unique way!
“Also, thou SON OF MAN (God’s favorite name for Ezekiel), the children of thy people (the Jews) still are talking against (beside, about) thee by the walls and in the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his brother, saying, Come, I pray you, and hear (but not obey) what is the word that cometh forth from the LORD. And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear (listen) thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew (just a ‘show’) much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness (unjust gain, love of money). And, lo, thou (Ezekiel) art unto them as a very lovely song (!!!) of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument (mere entertainment): for they hear thy words, but they do them not. And when this (predicted heavy judgment) cometh to pass, LO, IT WILL COME, then shall they KNOW that a PROPHET hath been among them.” Verses 30-33
The last clause: “Then shall they know that a PROPHET hath been among them.” A genuine preacher, a sincere servant, a pure man of God! Very encouraging to Ezekiel, I’m sure.
Going to Church, as “entertainment!” Looking for “lovely songs” and “pleasant voices” and “accomplished musicians,” and even more so … compromising clergymen!
Wow!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell