In Ezekiel, chapters 29-32 we have this prophet’s message concerning Egypt. But in the present study we shall note the outstanding events found in chapters 29 and 30, leaving the last two chapters for our next study.<\/p>\n
In the ancient world Babylon, Assyria, and Egypt were the three outstanding powers. From times immemorial down to the latter part of the Hebrew monarchy Egypt was a tower of strength to those who were allied with her, but a deadly and an awful foe for those who were enemies. In the Tigris-Euphrates Valley Babylonia, the cradle of ancient civilization, was the mistress of Western Asia. The old Babylonian Empire, however, went down under the rising might of the Assyrian kingdom. This new power, therefore, became the dominant one in the East and was a constant foe against Egypt. Finally, however, in the seventh century before the Common Era, Assyria went down and was buried under the sands of time. The neo-Babylonian Empire was brought back to life by Nabopolasser, the father of Nebuchadnezzar. Under his son, Nebuchadnezzar, however, Babylon spread as a mighty bay-tree and became the dominant factor again in Western Asia. It even overran Egypt and devastated the country, as we shall presently see. But the time for the setting of the sun of even the neo-Babylonian Empire came. The occasion of her downfall historically was the rise of the mighty Medo-Persian Empire, which conquered Babylon and incorporated it within the borders of its rising power.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 29:1-7 Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt is represented as a great sea monster that was wallowing in the Nile River, which was his sea. The prophet represents him as saying, \u201cMy river is mine own, and I have made it for myself.\u201d The thought of representing a kingdom or its ruler under the symbolism of a great sea monster or land animal is not uncommon in the Scriptures. For instance, in Isaiah 27:1 we have this language: \u201cIn that day Jehovah with his hard and great and strong sword will punish leviathan the swift serpent, and leviathan the crooked serpent; and he will slay the monster that is in the sea.\u201d By the best of commentators the powers of Assyria, Babylonia, and Egypt are spoken of under the symbolism of \u201cleviathan the swift serpent [Assyria],\u201d \u201cleviathan the crooked serpent [Babylon]\u201d and \u201cthe monster that is in the sea [Egypt].\u201d In all probability the adjective swift modifying \u201cleviathan\u201d is an echo of the fact that the Tigris River, upon which Ninevah, the capital of Assyria, was located, was a very swift stream. Well could it symbolize the direct, rapid and decisive action of this nation. The adjective crooked modifying \u201cleviathan\u201d is also probably an echo of the fact that Babylon, the capital of the Babylonian Empire, was located upon the Euphrates River which was very crooked and rather sluggish in its movement. Pharaoh, king of Egypt, is doubtless referred to as \u201cthe monster that is in the sea.\u201d This language becomes apparent when one recognizes that the Nile River in ancient times \u2014 before the building of such dams as the one at Aswan which controls the flood waters of the Nile \u2014 flooded the valley below and made it have the appearance of an inland sea.<\/p>\n
In view of Isaiah’s use of such symbolism as we have seen, it is not strange that Ezekiel, whose ministry fell about one hundred years after that of Isaiah’s, should use the same, comparing the ruler of Egypt to a great sea monster that wallowed in his river.<\/p>\n
At the same time we must remember that Job spoke of Satan under the symbolism of the great sea monster which was the beginning of the works of God and of leviathan the great monster who is \u201cking over all the sons of pride.\u201d Why then should these great animals and sea monsters be used as symbols both of the fallen, anointed cherub \u2014 Satan, or the devil \u2014 and at the same time of great empires or kingdoms? The answer to this question seems to be this: Civil governments are largely patterned after the government of Satan originally in the Eden of God and are yet very largely under his influence and domination. Thus the same symbol can at one time signify Satan, the prince of the powers of the air, and at the same time those visible kingdoms which are under his domination and control, and through which he works.<\/p>\n
This double usage of the symbolism of great sea monsters and wild beasts is in keeping with God’s methods in the use of symbols. For instance, beasts in the seventh chapter of Daniel are used to represent both the rulers of great kingdoms and at the same time the governments over which they presided (see Daniel 7:17,23).<\/p>\n
In the passage under consideration, Ezekiel 29:1-7, God foretells that He will pull Pharaoh, the great sea monster, out of his river, will cast him out into the desert, and will give him to be food for the animals, for the beasts of the field. This prophecy was fulfilled in God’s providentially causing Pharaoh to leave his country and to go on an expedition against some enemy, who conquers him.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 29:8-16 we see a prediction concerning the punishment that God will bring upon Egypt for her sins. Pride always goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. Thus the Lord declared: \u201cAnd the land of Egypt shall be a desolation and a waste; and they shall know that I am Jehovah. Because he hath said, The river is mine, and I have made it; 10 therefore, behold, I am against thee, and against thy rivers, and I will make the land of Egypt an utter waste and desolation, from the tower of Seveneh even unto the border of Ethiopia\u201d (29:9,10). The welfare of a nation is always wrapped up in the type of ruler whom God sets over a kingdom. A survey of history shows that this is true. God providentially always brings to the throne of a kingdom the type of ruler which the people desire. This statement being true, God is just in punishing the nation for the attitude of their ruler. Here this Egyptian Pharaoh, in claiming that the river was his, and that he would do as he pleased, was simply giving expression to the spirit of the people of his age. God was therefore righteous and just in punishing the nation for the spirit which their ruler manifested \u2014 for in punishing him He was punishing them for their shortcomings and sins.<\/p>\n
We can see the same thing in the situation that developed in Germany during the hey-day of the Hitlerite regime. The people of the nation, as a rule, were ripe for just such a man as Hitler. He was simply the visible expression of the people. Hence the Lord providentially brought him to the kingdom for that time in order that He might punish the nation for its spirit of arrogance and self-sufficiency. The same thing was true of France at the time of the French Revolution and in the Napoleonic Era. Napoleon was but the outward expression of the spirit of his people. God had to deal with its ruler and with the nation upon the basis of the merits of the case.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, it seems that the spirit of the majority of the American people at the present day has found its expression in the type of government that has been and is being administered in our beloved capital. From the reports over the radio and in the papers it appears that the communistic element, that has permeated every strata of American society, has infiltrated into key positions of our government. If these reports be correct, the one who has spiritual discernment can see the handwriting on the wall. God pity us in America if this diagnosis of the situation be correct!<\/p>\n
After threatening the king of Egypt with punishment, Ezekiel foretold a period of desolation of forty years during which the people of Egypt would be taken into captivity. But at the expiration of this period God promised that He would gather back the natives to their own homeland. Egyptian history as well as that of other nations during the latter part of the neo-Babylonian Empire and that of Medo-Persia, is very dark, since we have very little evidence coming from that era. Hence archaeology has been able to supply us with very little information concerning this period of time.<\/p>\n
According to verse 15 the Lord declared that Egypt, after this period of forty years of exile, would be \u201cthe basest of the kingdoms; neither shall it any more lift itself up above the nations: and I will diminish them, that they shall no more rule over the nations. And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, bringing iniquity to remembrance, when they turn to look after them: and they shall know that I am the Lord Jehovah\u201d (vss. 15,16). The destruction of the might and power of Egypt was accomplished by the Babylonians. Egypt was therefore thrown down from the high pinnacle on which it had stood from times immemorial. It became, even after its restoration following the forty-year period of desolation, the basest of the kingdoms of the world. It has remained in this condition through the centuries to the present day and will continue this way. When one thinks of the debasing of Egypt, he is reminded of the great Spanish nation that was the dominant power in Western Europe up until the destruction of its armada. From that catastrophic blow she never recovered. She sank down from her high position of prominence to a very inferior place and has remained on that level among the nations of the world to the present day. She probably will continue in this way.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 29:17-20 we have an oracle that was given in the twenty-seventh year of Jehoiachin’s captivity. And yet it is inserted in this oracle that was given in the tenth year of this same era. (Let us remember that Ezekiel dates his oracles according to the captivity of Jehoiachin, with whom he personally was carried captive to Babylon. Thus his dating was natural and was the outgrowth of the circumstances in which the prophet found himself.) But why should this oracle, which was spoken seventeen years later, be injected into the record at this point? The answer is at hand. Prior to this time Nebuchadnezzar had, by the providence of God, been brought against Tyre and had fought against it. According to the scanty data which has been brought to light, Nebuchadnezzar, though he fought against Tyre for 13 years, was never able to conquer that strong fortress. He therefore:<\/p>\n
… had no wages, nor his army, from Tyre, for the service that he had served against it. Therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I will give the land of Egypt unto Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and he shall carry off her multitude, and take her spoil, and take her prey; and it shall be the wages for his army. 20 I have given him the land of Egypt as his recompense for which he served, because they wrought for me, saith the Lord Jehovah.\u201d (Ezekiel 29:18-20)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
God rules throughout the universe and overrules among the nations. He uses one nation and its rulers against another people and its king, when He can in righteousness do this. All of His works are done in justice. By His omnipotence, then, He controls the movements of the nations and their actions.<\/p>\n
He is a good paymaster and always recompenses those who serve Him in the carrying-out of His plans and purposes. The case in hand is an excellent illustration of this principle. Again by looking at Isaiah 45:1-7 we see that God used Cyrus, king of Persia, in advancing His plans and purposes for the nation of Israel. At that time He paid Cyrus for his services very abundantly. But in the case of Nebuchadnezzar the Lord waited a number of years. We can be certain that He paid the debt with interest. Egypt became ripe for judgment. When she thus filled up her cup of iniquity, God opened up the way for Nebuchadnezzar to go there and punish her and allowed him to get his pay from the spoils of Egypt.<\/p>\n
The Lord saves people by His grace \u2014 that is, those who accept the Lord Jesus Christ and the ample provision for salvation for time and eternity. Thus we are saved by grace through faith. But the Lord pays His children for every particle of service which they render for Him. Even if one gives only a cup of water in the name of a disciple to the least of His disciples, he shall in no wise lose his reward. It pays to serve the Lord Jesus Christ. By serving Him and others in His name, we keep on laying up our treasures in heaven \u2014 the thing which our Lord Jesus urges us to do.<\/p>\n
The Promise of The Messiah<\/h3>\n
In that day will I cause a horn to bud forth unto the house of Israel, and I will give the opening of the mouth in the midst of them; and they shall know that I am Jehovah.\u201d (Ezekiel 29:21)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
In symbolic language a horn always signifies a king or power in the abstract sense. The horn referred to here, which is to bud forth unto the house of Israel, is evidently the King of Israel, the Messiah, who is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n
The phrase, In that day,<\/em> has a technical meaning in many instances on the lips of the prophets. It, when thus used, always looks forward to the time at the end of this age and the introduction of the great millennial kingdom. In this case the prophet is talking about the time when this horn of David will arise and take the government of the world in His hands and will reign from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.<\/p>\n
The Judgment Upon Egypt in The Day of Jehovah<\/h3>\n
Blended with those of The Time of Babylon<\/h4>\n
The prophets gave their utterances and frequently blended descriptions of events and things separated by vast stretches of time. This principle is known as the double fulfillment of prophecy, or the Law of Double Reference. It has been illustrated by mountain ranges which are seen from a distance. In the foreground appear the lower mountains and towering about them in the far distance are seen higher ones. From the standpoint of the observer he can only see mountains in the distance. In describing what he sees, he may speak of the lower and nearer range and blend that imperceptibly with his description of the peaks of the more distant mountains. Again, he may speak of the higher peaks in the distance and then begin to describe the foothills, or nearer ones. This is an excellent example illustrative of what the prophet does in chapter 30:1-9. In the first of this chapter, without a doubt, we see that Ezekiel looked out into the far distant future \u2014 to the end of this age, which concludes with what is known by the prophets as \u201cthe day of Jehovah.\u201d A study of this time which is called \u201cthe day of Jehovah\u201d shows us that this is a period of seven years during which God pours out His judgments upon a God-defying world. At that time the civilization of the world will be wrecked. It will culminate with the personal bodily return of the Lord Jesus Christ to earth, at which time He will lift the curse and will introduce a new order. He will establish a reign of righteousness upon the earth and the glory of God will encircle the earth as the waters cover the sea.<\/p>\n
But in verses 6-19 the prophet, figuratively speaking, lowered his eyes and stopped looking at the distant scene of the day of Jehovah and focused his gaze upon the time nearer him, when the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar would come against Egypt and would carry out the prophecy that He had made in chapter 29. Mention is made in verse 13 of God’s causing the images at Memphis to cease. This ancient capital of Egypt was just south of Cairo. God wiped out the very existence of it and even the location of that ancient mighty metropolis was lost to the world until archaeologists dug and finally unearthed its ruins. The ancient city of Thebes is mentioned in verse 16 under the name of No. The ruins of this capital of the Middle Kingdom are among the wonders of the world today. An examination of the prophecies concerning No and a visit to the site of this ancient Egyptian capital shows that the prophet spoke accurately and literally in this prediction.<\/p>\n
Pharaoh Impotent in the Face of Nebuchadnezzar<\/h3>\n
In verses 20-26 we have another oracle which was spoken of in the eleventh year of Jehoiachin’s captivity, but in the tenth year of Zedekiah. Of course this oracle was spoken in the midst of the conflict between the armies of Nebuchadnezzar besieging Jerusalem and those of Zedekiah defending it. In verse 21 the Lord spoke of His having broken the arm of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and of its not having been bound up and healed. This seems to refer to some defeat that Pharaoh had suffered recently. It is altogether possible that this may refer to Pharaoh-Hophra and his advancing to the aid of the Jews, as is recorded in Jeremiah 37:5. The Egyptian armies advanced toward Jerusalem. The besieging Chaldean army raised the siege and departed. As to where they went or what they did, the record is silent. Some think that possibly there was a pitched battle between the Egyptian and Chaldean forces and that the Egyptians were thrown back in defeat. In view of the lack of evidence we must refrain from making any decision on this point. It is clear, however, that the Egyptian king had suffered recently a defeat from which he had not recovered. One of his arms therefore is represented as having been wounded and as not having been healed.<\/p>\n
In the verses under consideration God pictures the struggle between the Babylonian forces that would fight against Egypt and the Egyptian forces that would defend it. In this representation He speaks of it as a contest, or a duel, between Nebuchadnezzar and Pharaoh. At the time of the fight Pharaoh has one strong arm and one wounded one. On the other hand, Nebuchadnezzar has two strong arms. God places His sword in the hands of Nebuchadnezzar and strengthens him for his duel with Pharaoh. Needless to Say, Pharaoh is conquered, As a result of this sweeping victory for Nebuchadnezzar, the Egyptians are scattered among the nations. As has been said above, the history is very meager and it is impossible for us to gather any definite data concerning the complete fulfillment of this prophecy.<\/p>\n
\nThe Oracles Concerning Egypt (Part Two)<\/h1>\n
In last month’s study we investigated chapters 29 and 30 of Ezekiel. These chapters contain an oracle that was spoken in the tenth year of Jehoiachin’s captivity, with a shorter one spoken later but incorporated in the body of this general prediction. The message contained in chapter 31 was delivered in the eleventh year and the two contained in chapter 32 were received in the twelfth year of this same era. These four chapters (29-32) constitute the longest oracles concerning any nation other than Israel to be found in the entire Book of God. The reader should study Isaiah, chapter 19, and Jeremiah, chapter 46, in connection with this oracle found in Ezekiel.<\/p>\n
The Oracle Given in The Eleventh Year of Jehoiachin’s Captivity<\/h3>\n
In verses 1-9 we have an oracle concerning the Assyrian national tree. In this paragraph the Lord spoke to the prophet and told him to deliver a message to Pharaoh king of Egypt, and his multitude, and to ask them: \u201cWhom art thou like in thy greatness?\u201d Without waiting for an answer, the Lord called Pharaoh’s attention to the fact that the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon with fair branches, with a forest like shade, and of high stature. Its top was among the thick boughs. Of course, the prophet, in thus speaking of the great Assyrian Empire, was comparing it to a massive cedar tree of Lebanon. It was situated upon the Tigris with its capital, Nineveh, located immediately upon that river. Like a tree that is on the bank of a stream, and that has plenty of moisture, Nineveh and the Assyrian Empire were most favorably located and could and did grow into one of the most powerful kingdoms of antiquity. In such a massive political tree the birds of the heavens could lodge and make their nests. All other trees in the garden of God are represented as looking with envious eyes upon this great Assyrian monarch of the forest.<\/p>\n
The Lord’s comparing the nation to this mighty towering, strong cedar was His representation of the attitude of, not only the sovereign of Assyria, but also of the people constituting the Empire. Pride always goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. This statement is the expression of an unchangeable law that is operative always and in every place. The Lord therefore pronounced judgment upon this great Assyrian tree, stating that it had been delivered into the hands of the mighty one of the nations who had dealt with it. The reason especially for this judgment was wickedness. The tree is represented as having fallen to the ground and the branches as having been broken off. Upon this prostrate tree the birds, of the heavens and the beasts of the field are represented as coming and lodging. The Lord brought this summary Judgment upon Assyria in order to teach the other nations not to exalt themselves too much lest a similar fate should overtake them.<\/p>\n
In verses 15-17 the Lord spoke to Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and pointed out to him that the judgment which came upon Assyria was sent because of the wickedness of this nation. Historically, Nineveh succumbed to the titanic strokes of judgment dealt her by her adversaries. This occurred in the year 612 B.C. of the accepted chronology. This oracle spoken in the eleventh year of Jehoiachin was in reality the tenth year of Zedekiah, the last King of Judah. Judah fell in the year 586 B.C. Thus this oracle was spoken in 587 B.C. The Lord in it now called Pharaoh’s attention to the fact that, when the Assyrian tree was thrown to the ground, its leader and the men of the nation made their descent into Sheol. There of course was great mourning at the catastrophe which had befallen this mighty empire. In a most graphic and pictorial manner the Lord represented Himself as having caused deep mourning to be observed at the downfall of Assyria: \u201cI covered the deep for him, and I restrained the rivers thereof; and the great waters were stayed; and I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him.\u201d<\/p>\n
Just as a heavy tree, when it falls to the ground, causes the earth to shake in the immediate vicinity, thus God represents the fall of Nineveh as causing great consternation and terror to the nations, round about.<\/p>\n
When Assyria went down, all of the leaders of the nation descended into Sheol. Prior to the death of Christ all people upon death went to Sheol. The righteous, or rather those who trust God, were put in one apartment, whereas those who did not trust God and did not know Him in a personal manner were sent to another apartment. These two places were separated by an impassable gulf as we learn in Luke, chapter 16. Since the death of Christ, however, the saved upon death go immediately into the presence of God, whereas the lost will still descend into Sheol and will remain there until the end of the Millennial Age, at which time they will be brought forth before the great white throne judgment and will be sent to their eternal destiny of woe.<\/p>\n
Having thus pictured the greatness of the Assyrian Empire that had only recently succumbed to the attacks, of the enemy, the Lord warned Pharaoh and Egypt to consider their fate as a message to them to turn from their haughtiness and pride unto the true an the living God. Hence, after having described the downfall of Assyria, the prophet declared pointedly: \u201cThis is Pharaoh and all his multitude\u201d (Ezekiel 31:18). Though he had spoken of Assyria under the term of this fallen cedar tree, it is clear from the context and from the quotation just given that the Lord meant by this language that Egypt would suffer the same fate as Assyria had.<\/p>\n
The descent of the great heads of the Assyrian Empire and of the Egyptian Kingdom down into Sheol and their becoming weak and impotent like all the rest of the dead reminds one of the prophecy of Isaiah, chapter 14, which foretells the descent of the last emperor of the world, the Antichrist, whom the Lord Jesus will slay by the brightness of His coming and His radiant glory, The reader should turn to this passage and study Isaiah 14:3-27.<\/p>\n
Oracles Given in the Twelfth Year of Jehoiachin<\/h3>\n
The oracles contained in chapter 32 were spoken in the twelfth year of Jehoiachin’s captivity. The first one, found in verses 1-16, is spoken of as a lamentation which the prophet was to take up against Pharaoh, king of Egypt. In this funeral dirge the prophet speaks of Pharaoh’s having been compared to a young lion of the nations, but now he thinks of him as a great monster in the sea which is taken in the net, and which is brought up out of his waters. When either Ezekiel or any of the other prophets compared Egypt to a lion, is not here revealed. However, we may be certain that he was compared to such. In this passage, however, he is thought of as a great monster in the rivers, possibly a great hippopotamus. The net is thrown over him by the nations and he is caught. He is thus brought up out of his waters and is pulled out upon the dry land. Then he becomes food for the birds of the heavens and for the beasts of the earth. The fulfillment of this figurative language doubtless occurred when Pharaoh was caused to leave his country and go into another land on a military campaign. Then he was beaten and his shattered army was cast forth into the desert. Naturally, when the bodies of men or beasts are lying on the open field, the birds of the heavens and the beasts of the earth come and devour the same. Pharaoh-Necho had, in the fourth year of Jehoiachin, gone up out of his land to Carchemish on the Euphrates where he had suffered a disastrous defeat; but this event was past history when Ezekiel uttered his prophecy. This prediction evidently refers to some event which proved a disastrous blow to Egypt after the fall of Judah. The history of Egypt at this time is rather meager, and our conception of the times is very faulty and limited. At the fall of Egypt in fulfillment of this prophecy the Lord declared that He would cause great mourning:<\/p>\n
And when I shall extinguish thee, I will cover the heavens, and make the stars thereof dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not give its light. All the bright lights of heaven will I make dark over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord Jehovah. I will also vex the hearts of many peoples, when I shall bring thy destruction among the nations, into the countries which thou hast not known. Yea I will, make many people amazed at thee, and their kings shall be horribly afraid for thee, when I shall brandish my sword before them; and they shall tremble at every moment, every man, for his own life, in the day of thy fall.\u201d (Ezekiel 32:7-10)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
It is altogether possible that this language may be figurative and may be similar to that which is found in 31:15,16. At the same time it is altogether possible, and I say probable, that this is yet to be fulfilled in the future. Egypt is still the basest kingdom of all the nations \u2014 as God said (29:15). Egypt may come to the front some time in the future, but of course she will never become what she was in the past. If this prophecy has not been fulfilled, it will yet be fulfilled in the Tribulation. This period, called the Tribulation, or the tame of Jacob’s trouble, will be a day when there will be supernatural events seen throughout the material universe. Prior to the bursting forth of the Tribulation there will be signs in the heavens above and upon the earth beneath; there will be a black-out of the sun; the moon will become as blood; and there will be vapor and pillars of smoke and the like in the heavens and upon the earth (Joel 2:28-32). Zephaniah tells us that, in that day, there will be clouds and thick darkness. John in Revelation informs us that these supernatural signs will occur before the Tribulation and at different intervals during it. Our Lord in Matthew 24:29-31 announced that these very signs that precede the Tribulation will follow it immediately, at which time He himself will return from heaven in glory and great power. In view of these various prophecies it is altogether possible that the prediction in Ezekiel, chapter 32, will find its complete and literal fulfillment in the time of the Tribulation.<\/p>\n
In verses 11-16 the Lord speaks of using the sword of Babylon against Egypt. To what does this refer? We know from history and also from prophecy that Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar went against Egypt and conquered it. It is altogether possible therefore that this block of Scripture may have had its fulfillment in the subjugation of Egypt by Babylon. At the same time this may yet find its full and complete fulfillment in the end of the age when Babylon becomes a world power, as she is destined to be according to prophecies found in Isaiah, chapters 13 and 14; Jeremiah, chapters 50 and 51; and Revelation, chapter 18.<\/p>\n
In verses 17-32 we have a glimpse into Sheol which, as we have already seen, is in the center of the earth. As a person looks through the lens of this prophecy down into the nether parts of the earth, he sees that weird place as a mighty graveyard. One portion of it is given to Assyria and her hosts; at the same time another, to Elam and its hosts. From other verses we see that there will be those of Meshech and Tubal (possibly Russia, Moscow, and Tobolsk) in another place. Likewise the Edomites will be in their particular spot. Thus it is with Pharaoh and his hosts. Of course, all nations who have ever lived, and who have gone out of this world unprepared to meet God, are down there now and will continue to be until the close of the great Millennial Age.<\/p>\n
We see the expression, \u201c… all of them uncircumcised, slain by the sword …\u201d Circumcision in the true sense of the term was the seal of faith in God and of acceptance with Him. The uncircumcised in the language of this passage are the lost. It is a fearful thing to pass through this life without having been reconciled to God. May God help everyone reading this message to turn to Him in simple faith and accept the salvation offered by the Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n
\nThe Watchman on the Wall (Chapter 33)<\/h1>\n
With chapter 33 we begin a new division in the Book of Ezekiel. We have just completed the section dealing with the oracles against the nations found in chapters 24-32. The portion beginning with chapter 33 and ending with chapter 39 deals with Israel’s great future in a general way. The last division of the book deals with the land, the city, and the temple under the reign of King Messiah (chapters 40-48).<\/p>\n
The Watchman on the Wall<\/h3>\n
In verses 1 to 7 the prophet delivered the message which the Lord gave him concerning watchmen who would be put upon the wall of a city doing sentry duty. In this oracle the Lord declared that He would hold any man personally responsible who was thus placed on duty if he, upon seeing the approach of the enemy as he invaded the territory, should fail to make the announcement to the people in order that they might escape the horrors of war. In the beginning of this oracle there is an important statement which is:<\/p>\n
When I bring the sword upon a land, and the people of the land take a man from among them, and set him for their watchman; 3 if, when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people; 4 then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning, if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.\u201d (Ezekiel 33:2-4)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
In this passage the Lord speaks in general terms, concerning any nation. It is He who has charted the course of the various nations. Figuratively speaking, He has a blueprint of the nations on which is indicated the time for the rise of every nation, the extent to which the boundaries may be pushed, and the time for it to disappear. The Apostle Paul in his marvelous speech on Mars Hill in Athens, Greece, in so many words declared these important truths (Acts 17:31). On the point of the Lord’s turning over to certain ones the land or country of another people for a given time, a person should read Jeremiah 27:1-11. In this passage the Lord declared, verse 5, that He made the earth and everything therein and the heavens above. Moreover, He declared that He gives it to whomsoever it seems right in His eyes. In the days of Jeremiah He had given all of those countries in Western Asia and Northwestern Africa to Nebuchadnezzar. They were therefore urged to submit to his yoke without resistance. Should they be obedient to this divine message, all would be well with them; on the other hand, if they failed to accept the divine will, they would suffer the consequences in sorrows and distress. God still controls the movements of the nations and determines the bounds of their habitations, as well as the seasons during which they have an existence.<\/p>\n
The Lord declared that, when He by His overruling providence brings one nation against another and the people of the land that is being invaded puts a watchman upon the wall to do sentry duty, if that man fails to give the alarm \u2014 fails to perform his duty to his fellow countrymen \u2014 the Lord will hold that man personally responsible. If, on the other hand, when he sees the enemy coming, he gives the alarm and allows the people the opportunity of making their escape, the sentry is not held responsible. During times of warfare in any country God holds these watchmen responsible. When they perform their duty and the people, who are depending upon them, have an opportunity to act, then they, the populace, bear their own responsibility. This language means exactly what it says.<\/p>\n
But God has spiritual sentinels whom He places on guard duty to give warning to the people. Ezekiel was taken in the deputation of captives who went to Babylon with Jehoiachin. He was located with them in their captivity. He was sent along by the Lord to be their sentinel, and to deliver the Word of God to them. He had a special appointment, a definite assignment. God told Him that He would require the blood of the people at his, Ezekiel’s, hands if he failed to deliver His message to them. Note the language which is most specific: \u201cSo thou, son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore hear the word at my mouth and give them warning from me\u201d (vs. 7). Ezekiel had quite a good sized congregation, but one that was not too large for him to minister to personally. The Lord therefore called him, gave him a definite commission, delivered His word to him on various occasions, and held him personally responsible for delivering those messages.<\/p>\n
Does God call people and assign to them a definite commission today as He did to Ezekiel? If He does, He will hold such ones responsible for delivering His word. There can be doubt that God does impress upon the heart of His faithful servants His plan for them \u2014 for instance, to go to a certain mission field. That specific work is laid upon the heart of the given individual whom God calls. If such a person does not go, then he is disobedient and will be out of the will of God. Of course, he will lose untold blessings in this life and will not have the rich reward in eternity that he would have, had he been obedient to God’s call.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, when the Lord calls one, for instance, to China, He does not specify a certain number of people to whom he is to minister the Word and hold him responsible unless he gives out the message to everyone of those living in that section. If such an arrangement were made today, the missionary would never have any joy, satisfaction, or peace unless he was confident that he had given the Word to every individual in the given territory. Of course, the one who hears the call and obeys must be faithful, being conscientious with himself and with his God and doing all he can for the glory of God. He must be faithful in the study of the Word, in prayer for guidance, and in delivering the message to the people. In a general way therefore I would say that the person, being on the field to which God has called him, will have the smile and approval of the Lord.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, Ezekiel was warned that, when the Lord spoke to him concerning certain wicked ones, who would die in their iniquity, the Lord would hold him personally responsible for delivering the message of truth to such individuals. But let us always bear in mind that the Lord spoke to Ezekiel personally and pointed out the ones to whom he should go and put in his mouth the message that he was to deliver. In giving him the message, He inspired him infallibly by the Spirit of God. The Lord does not deal that way with His servants today since we have the written Word. It is true that God does impress the heart of the yielded one with the importance of delivering a message to a community and sometimes to special individuals with whom they are in close contact. Let each of us who are called into the service of the Lord, whether it be on the home field or in foreign lands, deliver our message faithfully in the Spirit of God.<\/p>\n
The Announcement of the Watchman<\/h3>\n
In verses 10 to 16 the message which the prophet was to give to certain people is given very specifically. The exiles among whom Ezekiel lived, and to whom he was to minister the Word, had become more or less cynical and yielded themselves up to a dead fatalism. They therefore were saying, \u201cOur transgressions and our sins are upon us, and we pine away in them; how then can we live?\u201d (vs. 10). It is true that they were transgressors and sinners, and that they were pining away in their wrongs.<\/p>\n
To correct this error the Lord commissioned the prophet to tell the people that He had no delight in the death of the wicked, but that, if the wicked man turned from his ways, he should live. This statement was followed by a passionate appeal to the house of Israel to turn from their wickedness and to live with God’s blessings resting upon them. Of course, the living of which he was speaking was in this life. He was not talking about eternal life specifically. If the righteous man should be living a consistent life when the calamity of judgment came upon the community, he would be preserved through it, would survive, and live to the normal age of that period of time. On the other hand, if he, after having lived a good and true, upright, honorable life, ceased to do so and turned to wickedness, then his life would be shortened, and he would be overtaken by some calamity. On the other hand, if the man who was living in wickedness and sin forsook his wrongdoings and turned to live an honorable and upright life; then, when some calamity would come upon the community, this one was promised to escape the calamity and to survive the ordeal. Thus the promises contained in the message of the prophet were based upon the good conduct and the upright actions of the individual. Since men are not saved spiritually and prepared for immortal glory by their good works, we know that this living could not be living spiritually unto eternal life. The Scriptures are abundantly clear on the proposition that men are saved by the grace of God through faith. We therefore know that the promises of life involved in these verses pertain to the natural physical life here.<\/p>\n
Notwithstanding the clear, straightforward statement that the Lord made concerning the way in which He deals with people upon the basis of the merit of their cases, there were those, according to verses 18-20, who were saying that the Lord’s ways were not equal. In reply to them the Lord asserted that their<\/em> ways were not equal, but that His were righteous and just and equal. The prophet closed his discussion on this point by saying, \u201cYet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. 0 house of Israel, I will judge you every one after his ways\u201d (vs. 20).<\/p>\n
In verses 21 and 22 we learn that one who escaped the tragedies of the fall of Jerusalem reached Babylon in the twelfth year of Ezekiel’s captivity, in the tenth month, and in the fifth day of the month. On that day the messenger reported the fall of Jerusalem. In this connection let us remember that the eleventh year of Zedekiah, the year of the fall of Jerusalem, was the twelfth year of Jehoiachin’s captivity. The city fell in the fifth month of that year. In the tenth month \u2014 five months later \u2014 the escaped fugitive arrived in the community of captives over in Babylon and reported the disaster that had overtaken the mother city. It took him practically five months to reach Babylon traveling doubtless on foot as was most likely. When Ezra led the captives who accompanied him back to Jerusalem, he left Babylon on the first day of the first month of the seventh year of Artaxerxes and arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month of the same year. Thus it took four months for Ezra and his company to travel from the place they resided in Babylon to Jerusalem.<\/p>\n
The mention of this historical fact in the midst of the oracle constituting chapter 33 probably is indicative of the fact that this prophecy was given on the day mentioned in verse 21 of that year.<\/p>\n
In the following paragraph, consisting of verses 23-29, the prophet was instructed to speak to the people and to correct the error that was being held by certain of those people who lived in the scattered ruins of Palestine after the two awful wars that had been waged by the Babylonians when Nebuchadnezzar came in the third year of Jehoiakim king of Judah and then eight years later in the day of Jehoiachin. Of course, the war left its terrible toll and scars upon the land. There were those who were living in caves and among the ruins of the desolated territory. They might be termed \u201cthe die-hards.\u201d These people had faith, a blind faith, and refused to see the situation as it was. They took the position that, when Abraham was one, God made promise to him that he should be heir of the land. They therefore considered that they were many, many in contrast to Abraham, a single individual. They therefore said that certainly, since they were far more in number that he, they should inherit the land.<\/p>\n
When they took this position, they did not take into account that sin and idolatry are terrible abominations that will alter facts and that will hinder the fulfillment of the promises of the Lord. In verses 25 and 26 the prophet calls their attention to flagrant sins of which these people were guilty.<\/p>\n
Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Ye eat with the blood, and lift up your eyes unto your idols, and shed blood: and shall ye possess the land? 26 Ye stand upon your sword, ye work abomination and ye defile every one his neighbors wife: and shall ye possess the land?\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Since they were indulging in those sinful practices, the Lord declared that they would not under any conditions inherit the land, but that the sword should take its terrific toll of them.<\/p>\n
In the final paragraph of this chapter, verses 30-33, we learn that the people among whom Ezekiel ministered came frequently to him and delighted to hear him deliver messages from God. According to verse 30 in private conversations at home and in public places the people would say one to the other, \u201cCome, I pray you, hear what is the word that cometh forth from Jehovah.\u201d Concerning them, the Lord declared that they would come before Him and would sit and listen to His words, but that they would not do them. With their mouths they would show much love, but with their hearts they went after their gain. These people enjoyed hearing the oracles of God and the preaching of the Word. They looked upon the messages of the prophets as a lovely song, a pleasant voice, and as one that could play well on an instrument. In other words, they went to hear the prophet speak the words of God purely for intellectual satisfaction and pleasure. They, however, did not have any intention of doing the will of God. This passage reminds one of Isaiah 58 in which the prophet spoke of the people’s coming and delighting to hear the Word of God, and then going back to their businesses and their professions, taking advantage of others, and actually engaging in sin and evil practices. The Word of God is a serious matter. People must consider it as such and act accordingly. It is for the Lord’s minister to speak faithfully the Word of God; it is for the people to listen with open hearts, to receive, and to obey.<\/p>\n
\nThe Untrue Shepherds of Israel<\/h1>\n
The Lord frequently uses human illustrations to set forth divine truths. He constantly thought and spoke of Israel as a flock of sheep and of His being the shepherd, or of some of His servants as being appointed to care for the sheep. For instance, in Psalm 95:7 and 100:3, He speaks of Israel as being the sheep of His pasture. In II Samuel 5:2 appears the language of the Lord to David saying, \u201cThou shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and thou shall be prince over Israel.\u201d Thus Israel in these passages is thought of as God’s flock. David in the last quotation is spoken of as being the shepherd (under God) of the flock.<\/p>\n
The Faithless Shepherds of Israel<\/h3>\n
In Ezekiel 34:1 the Lord spoke through Ezekiel \u201cagainst the shepherds of Israel.\u201d His message was one of condemnation because they, instead of performing their duties as they should have done, were not looking after the interests of the people of God. On the contrary, they were using their official positions for their own personal profit and aggrandizement. Like the literal shepherds to whom flocks of sheep were entrusted, and who did not care for the needs of the sheep and did not protect them, the political and religious leaders of Israel held their positions of influence and power over the nation but did not look after the welfare of the people. The well-being of a nation is wrapped up in the type of political rulers and their spiritual leaders, who are over it. Of course, in Israel the king with the princes was at the head of the political situation. Often good kings sat upon the throne. At other times there were men wicked, evil, selfish, and self-centered who only used their high office for the forwarding of their own personal interests. Whenever the authority and power lay in the hands of such men as these, great distress and misfortune came upon the land and the people.<\/p>\n
There were also the priests who were appointed to lead the people spiritually to carry on the true worship of God, and to minister to the spiritual welfare of the nation. All too frequently those who served in spiritual affairs descended to a very low level of morals and ethics. Isaiah compared them to dumb dogs and said, \u201cYea, the dogs are greedy, they can never have enough; and these are shepherds that cannot understand: they have all turned to their own way, each one to his gain, from every quarter\u201d (Isaiah 56:11). Once again this same prophet spoke of the priests and of the prophets saying, \u201cAnd even these reel with wine, and stagger with strong drink; the priest and the prophet reel with strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they stagger with strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is<\/em> no place clean<\/em>\u201d (Isaiah 28:7,8). On this same point Jeremiah gave the following utterance: \u201cA wonderful and horrible thing is come to pass in the land: the prophets prophesy falsely and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so; and what will ye do in the end thereof?\u201d (Jeremiah 5:30,31).<\/p>\n
In the New Testament the spiritual leaders of the people of God are likewise spoken of as shepherds. Jesus just before His departure from this earth urged Peter to feed His sheep, to take care of His lambs (John 21:15-17). This Apostle later on, in addressing the elders of the church, urged them to tend the flock of God which was among them (I Peter 5:1-3). The Apostle Paul in his final talk with the elders of the church at Ephesus whom he met at Miletus thought of the church as the flock of God and of them as being shepherds to whom the care of the flock was entrusted.<\/p>\n
Both the shepherds of Israel and the shepherds in the New Testament church are given great opportunities of service in looking after the spiritual welfare of the people and of teaching the Word of God faithfully and accurately.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 34:7-10 the Lord spoke again to the shepherds of His people Israel and denounced them for their unfaithfulness. Hear him:<\/p>\n
Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of Jehovah: 8 As I live, saith the Lord Jehovah, surely forasmuch as my sheep became a prey, and my sheep became food to all the beasts of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my sheep, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my sheep; 9 therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of Jehovah: 10 Thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my sheep at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the sheep; neither shall the shepherds, feed themselves any more; and I will deliver my sheep from their mouth, that they may not be food for them.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Whenever persons are called by the Lord from secular pursuits and are entrusted with the spiritual welfare of other people, a grave responsibility is placed upon them. With privileges and advantages come grave responsibilities. The feeding and the caring for the people of God constitute a position that involves the eternal welfare of myriads of souls. The Lord therefore holds all who are thus entrusted with such high positions and privileges to a strict account of their stewardship.<\/p>\n
If they discharge their duties faithfully, allowing the Lord to lead and guide them in all of their duties, they will lead many to the Lord and enrich their lives. On the other hand, if they are simply time-servers and are using their positions for their own personal benefits, great will be the condemnation that will rest upon them.<\/p>\n
Everyone who is thus called into the ministry should prepare himself for efficient service in the Master’s cause. He should by ceaseless toil and prayer ascertain the teaching of the Scriptures. He should likewise develop in the spiritual life himself, thus growing in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. Knowing the will of God the faithful servant will proclaim the Word to the people, regardless of whether or not it is popular.<\/p>\n
The prophets of God of whom we read in the Scriptures were fearless, dauntless men. They put God first. They were willing to suffer, even martyrdom, in order that they might accomplish their course and fulfill their ministry. For instance, of Isaiah we are told by tradition that he was sawn asunder. Nevertheless, he would neither alter nor change his message but delivered it faithfully to the people. Jeremiah likewise suffered as few mortals have ever done for the truth. He was a true shepherd of Israel. Throughout the Christian Era there have been many, innumerable shepherds who have put God and the interest of His people first and have not considered themselves or their own peculiar wants or position. Thus God has been honored and people have been blessed by the ministry of such faithful shepherds.<\/p>\n
Jehovah’s Becoming The Shepherd of Israel<\/h3>\n
In verses 11 and 12 is one of the most remarkable prophecies of the Old Testament.<\/p>\n
For thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered abroad, so will I seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
This prediction baffled the ancient rabbis. They saw the force of the statement: \u201cBehold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep …\u201d They realized from this context that God, having denounced both the political and religious leaders of His people for a failure to perform their duty of office, promised to come personally and to perform the functions in which they had failed. According to their interpretation this passage was a prediction that God would come as a person and thus perform those duties. But it was difficult for them to understand this passage, since they could not see how God himself could personally come as a human being and perform these duties. This passage along with Isaiah, chapter 53, has been spoken of as the bad conscience of the synagogue.<\/p>\n
This promise of God’s becoming the true shepherd of His people and of His performing these functions \u2014 that of prophet, priest, and king \u2014 can be understood in the light of such predictions as Isaiah 7:14 which declares: \u201cTherefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.\u201d From this passage we see that Messiah was scheduled to leave heaven and enter the world by miraculous power. When we turn to the New Testament and study Matthew, chapter 1, and Luke, chapter 1, we see how this prediction was fulfilled in the miraculous conception, and virgin birth of Jesus of Nazareth.<\/p>\n
Having performed His task at His first coming, the Lord Jesus, the Hebrew Messiah, surrendered himself to the Jewish leaders who arrested Him and condemned Him to death. But this sentence was executed by the Roman authorities. This seeming tragic death was foretold by Zechariah the prophet in the following language:<\/p>\n
Awake, 0 sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith Jehovah of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered; and I will turn my hand upon the little ones.\u201d (Zechariah 13:7)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Thus the sword did its worst in taking the life of the Messiah. Upon death He was laid in the tomb, but on the third day, according to His prediction, He arose bringing life and immortality to light through the gospel. Forty days later He ascended to glory where He is seated at the right hand of the throne of God, awaiting the time when Israel, having been given the facts concerning her national sin, repudiates that crime and pleads for Him to return.<\/p>\n
For I will be unto Ephraim as a lion, and as a young lion to the house of Judah: I, even I, will tear and go away; I will carry off, and there shall be none to deliver. 15 I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me earnestly. 1 Come and let us return unto Jehovah; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. 2 After two days will he revive us: on the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live before him. 3 And let us know, let us follow on to know Jehovah: his going forth is sure as the morning; and he will come unto us as the rain, as the latter rain that watereth the earth.\u201d (Hosea 5:14-6:3)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
When she thus prays for Him to return in fulfillment of this passage and Psalm; 80:1-3, the Messiah will return and will perform the duties of a shepherd to His beloved people as set forth in our passage, Ezekiel 34:11-16.<\/p>\n
He, the Lord Jesus, who was the Shepherd of Israel is also the Good Shepherd of His people from all nations who believe Him and accept His salvation. He has proved to be the gracious, loving, tender Shepherd of all who accept Him. He fulfills every promise that is set forth in Psalm 23. Are you, my dear reader, one of His sheep? If you have accepted Him with all your heart and surrendered your life to Him, you have been received by Him; for he who comes to Him He will in nowise cast out. If you have never accepted Him, may you do so now.<\/p>\n
\n<\/p>\n
The Flock of Jehovah and its Shepherd<\/h1>\n
In the last installment of this series we studied the first sixteen verses of Ezekiel, chapter 34. Here we saw that the leaders of Israel, both political and religious, are represented by shepherds who, not being interested in their flocks but more concerned about living in luxury, in ease, and in pleasure, use their high offices for their own special benefits.<\/p>\n
But in verses 11-16 the Lord foretold that He himself would come and become the Shepherd of Israel to gather her who is scattered in the dark and cloudy day and to restore her to her own land and to fellowship with Himself. In verses 17-24 the prophet continues the same figure of representing Israel and its leaders, by the figure of a shepherd and his flock.<\/p>\n
The Rams, The He-Goat and The Flock<\/h3>\n
In verse 17 the Lord showed that He intends to deal with the people individually and not simply collectively. He will therefore judge between sheep and sheep and the rams and he-goats. The rams and he-goats of course, in this extension of the figure, represent the leaders, both political and religious; whereas the sheep stand for the great masses of the people. In verse 14 the prophet spoke of these political leaders as feeding upon the very best of the pasture. It is always true that the leaders of any group usually have the best of the community. But Ezekiel reprimands these same leaders and tells them that they are not only getting the best portion of the pasture, but they go to watering troughs, there make the water muddy, and befoul it, but the sheep have no other place at which they go to drink. Thus they have to take what is left and accept the conditions that are created by the rams and the he-goats.<\/p>\n
It is a well-known fact that the leaders of any group, race, or nation do create, as a rule, the conditions that prevail. They can either improve them or let the situation deteriorate. Then the people have to suffer for the misconduct and the misdemeanors of the leaders.<\/p>\n
Happy and blest are the people who are guided by men of vision, men who are unselfish, who put the public interest first and foremost, and who make their own personal, private matters a secondary consideration. Isaiah spoke about the leaders of the people in his day and compared them to dumb dogs that bask in the sunlight and were too lazy to bark at the approach of danger. He spoke again and called them the shepherds of the flock and said that they were simply interested in the satisfaction of their own carnal fleshly desires and lusts: \u201cCome ye, say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and tomorrow shall be as this day, a day great beyond measure.\u201d Judgment awaits people who are thus placed in positions of responsibility and leadership. God deals with everyone according to the advantages and opportunities which he has enjoyed, and the position which he occupies. Those, then, who are placed in the position of leadership, both in the state and in religious circles, will be held to a very strict account for the discharge of the functions and duties of the offices which they fill. This is especially applicable to the ministers of the Word, pastors, teachers, preachers, writers, editors, and officials in the denominations and in the local congregations. May God open our eyes and enable us to see the great responsibility that rests upon us to guide and to direct the thoughts and the lives of the people in accordance with the will of God. May He enable us who are teaching His Word to study it and to give it forth without fear or favor of anyone.<\/p>\n
The True Shepherd of Israel<\/h3>\n
The promise found in verses 23 and 24 has given occasion to much controversy:<\/p>\n
And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. 24 And I, Jehovah, will be their God, and my servant David prince among them; I, Jehovah, have spoken it.\u201d (Ezekiel 34:23,24)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Who is this one Shepherd whom God will place over His people Israel? Since this one is called David, many excellent Bible students see in this prediction a forecast that God will raise King David, bring him back to life, and will place him over Israel restored. It is therefore believed by these commentators that David will reign during the Millennial Age in Jerusalem over restored, converted Israel. It is furthermore believed by these expositors that Christ will reign in a Jerusalem that will be created, and that will be suspended in the air above the city. Thus these good brethren interpret the expression, \u201cmy servant David,\u201d literally and apply it to King David, the father of Solomon. They should recall, however, that the word David is used also in an accommodated sense to refer to one of his descendants. In I Kings 12:16 we have this language: \u201c… now see to thine own house, David.\u201d King David had been dead forty years when this statement was made. From the context we see that the people were talking of Rehoboam, the grandson of David and his successor. Since the term, David, is used both literally and in the accommodated, figurative sense, of referring to a descendant and successor of David \u2014 the meaning to be determined by the facts of each context studied in the light of related passages \u2014 it becomes necessary for us to determine whether this name in Ezekiel 34:23,24 is used literally in referring to King David or to one of his descendants and successors. What do the facts of this context indicate? Let us remember that chapter 34 is one single oracle. In verse 11 the Lord, having condemned the faithless shepherds of Israel for their failure to perform their duties, declared saying, \u201cBehold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep and will seek them out.\u201d The ancient rabbis interpreted this passage as a prediction that God himself would come in the form of a man and perform the functions of the offices of both the political and religious leaders. With this thought in mind, that Jehovah himself would come and would play the part of a shepherd, in restoring Israel to her own land, we see that the promise in verses 23 and 24 concerning God’s setting up one shepherd \u2014 in contrast to many \u2014 over His people, and that this shepherd should be David his servant, we come to the conclusion that the word, David, is used in the figurative sense of referring to a descendant and successor of David, namely, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will wear the double crown \u2014 that of royalty and that of priesthood (Zechariah 6:12-14).<\/p>\n
The New Covenant and its Privileges<\/h3>\n
Isaiah, foretold that God would make a new covenant with Israel, an everlasting covenant (Isa. 61:8). Jeremiah foretold the same thing (Jeremiah 31:31f). Ezekiel speaks of this new covenant as \u201ca covenant of peace.\u201d And that covenant is made with Israel in real peace. Freedom from all danger of every sort will be the order of the day. At that time the Lord will establish the mountain of Jehovah’s house on the top of the mountains and will make all places connected with it a blessing. For there shall be showers of blessing (vs. 26).<\/p>\n
At that time the curse will be lifted from the earth and all the plants and vegetation and trees will bear their full increase. The people of course will enjoy the finest of the wheat, as the psalmist sang.<\/p>\n
Israel’s day of sorrow will be passed. She will no longer become a prey to the nations, to be driven from one place to another and to be robbed.<\/p>\n
At that time the land of Israel will be \u201ca plantation for renown.\u201d Never will there be any earthquakes, any calamities. There will be no tornadoes, no famine, nothing to blast fruits and vegetables, and nothing to plague man.<\/p>\n
At that time Jehovah will be Israel’s God in the true sense of the term. He has been and is her God now, but she will not let Him pour out the fullness of His blessings upon her. At that future time, she will. The same thing may be said of Christians today. But when this prophecy is fulfilled, Israel will be the sheep of God’s pasture and Jehovah himself will be the true Shepherd, who will meet all of their needs.<\/p>\n
Jehovah is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside still waters. He restoreth my soul: He guideth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over. Surely goodness and lovingkindness shall follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of Jehovah for ever.\u201d (Psalm 23:1-6)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
\nThe Judgment upon Edom<\/h1>\n
The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob. From the earliest childhood of these two brothers there seems to have been on the part of Esau a spirit of jealousy and envy against Jacob. Because of this fact Jacob was sent by his mother to his uncle Laban, who lived in Syria. This feeling appears never to have died out during the personal lifetime of these two patriarchs. At times it seems to have disappeared, but it was simply smoldering underneath some seeming tranquil situation. It flared up from time to time and burst into raring warfare at different stages of the history of the descendants of these two brothers.<\/p>\n
The country and people of Edom came in for consideration on the part of various prophets. For instance, Jeremiah issued an oracle against these people, as seen in Jeremiah 49:7-22. Ezekiel, in chapter 35, which is the subject of our lesson, and also in chapter 36, dealt with the relationship between the Edomites and the Israelites. Amos likewise in 1:11,12 issued an oracle against Edom. Obadiah devoted his entire book (one chapter) to a discussion of Edom and the hurling of a philippic against that inveterate enemy of the Jews. All of these passages should be read in order that one might appreciate the message of this study.<\/p>\n
The Oracle Directed Against Edom<\/h3>\n
God instructed Ezekiel to set his face toward Mount Seir and to prophesy against it. The wording of this command shows that this was indeed a real burden in the true sense of the term which the prophet was delivering against the Edomites. It is a fearful thing to have God issue such a declaration against anyone.<\/p>\n
God Threatens to Lay Waste the Country of Edom<\/h3>\n
In verses 3 and 4 of this oracle God tells the nature and the extent of the judgment that He threatens. He warned the Edomites that He would reduce the country to a state of desolation and waste, and that its condition would be an astonishment to the people who would witness it. Though they had strong cities and fortifications, yet God would make all of them heaps of ruins. They would feel His might and recognize the power of Omnipotence in His thus destroying their country and overthrowing their civilization.<\/p>\n
The Sin of Edom<\/h3>\n
As stated in the first paragraph of this study, the outstanding sin of the Edomites was that of enmity against the Israelites, which feeling of animosity dated back to the days of Jacob and Esau. In various oracles that God uttered against the Edomites, He calls attention to that fact Isaiah in foretelling the judgments of the great Tribulation concluded by saying that the Lord Jesus, when He comes to earth, will strike at Edom and assigns as the reason: \u201cFor Jehovah hath a day of vengeance, a year of recompense for the cause of Zion\u201d (Isaiah 34:8). In Ezekiel 35:5 God emphasizes the thought that Edom’s outstanding sin was perpetual enmity against the children of Israel. They at different times have done all that they could against the Israelites; but from this verse we see that they will in some way deliver over \u201cthe children of Israel to the power of the sword in the time of their calamity, in the time of the iniquity of the end.\u201d This statement shows that this oracle finds its complete fulfillment in the time of the Tribulation. It is most important to note this fact. By all prophetic students the time of Israel’s calamity is the time of Jacob’s trouble, or the Tribulation, which is, according to this verse, to be in the time of the iniquity of the end \u2014 the end of this age, namely, the Tribulation Period.<\/p>\n
Edom Reaps what She has Sowed<\/h3>\n
One of the unchangeable laws of God is that a person or nation reaps what he or it sows. The Edomites have in the past and will yet in the future give the children of Israel over to the power of the sword. To this same fate, though in a more thoroughgoing and far-reaching manner, will God give the Edomites over to the power of the sword in the end time. She will have shed blood, and her blood shall be shed.<\/p>\n
Edom’s Desolations Perpetual<\/h3>\n
According to verses 7-9 the wreckage and the ruin, of the land of Edom will continue and remain in this condition perpetually. Her feeling of hatred against Israel has run through the centuries; her desolations will run throughout the centuries of the Millennial Age, since it will be perpetual, that is, continuing from the time of its being reduced to that condition onward as long as the earth stands. At the end of the Millennium, however, the entire physical universe passes out of existence, as we learn in Revelation 20, verse 11.<\/p>\n
Edom’s False Claims to the Land of Palestine<\/h3>\n
In verses 10-12 we have this language:<\/p>\n
Because thou hast said, These two nations and these two countries shall be mine, and we will possess it; whereas Jehovah was there; 11 therefore, as I live, saith the Lord Jehovah, I will do according to thine anger, and according to thine envy which thou hast showed out of thy hatred against them; and I will make myself known among them, when I shall judge thee. 12 And thou shall know that I, Jehovah, have heard all thy revilings which thou hast spoken against the mountains of Israel, saying, They are laid desolate, they are given us to devour.\u201d (Ezekiel 35:10-12)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
So far as the records go, there is no account of the Edomites‘ ever laying claim to the land of Israel, which was, upon the death of Solomon, divided into two countries: the kingdom of Judah and the kingdom of Israel. Ezekiel thus speaks of the land of Palestine and the people of Israel in terms of the conditions which resulted after the division of the kingdom in the days of Rehoboam, king of Judah.<\/p>\n
Since this oracle, as we see from verse 5, will find its full and complete fulfillment in the time of the iniquity of the end, we may be certain that yet in the future the Edomites will lay claim to all the land of Palestine west of the Jordan River. They will declare that they have a right to this land, and that they are going to have it in possession. As to how far they will press their claims, the Scriptures are silent. We therefore must stop there and await the time when this claim is put forward by the people of Edom. It is true that the Arabs \u2014 without any definitely defined actual racial and national lines \u2014 have laid claim to the land of Palestine. Thus the descendants of the various Arabic nations have indiscriminately made the claim that Palestine belongs to the Arabs; but here is a definite prediction that the descendants of Esau, who have been amalgamated with the Arabic tribes, at the present, will make these claims before the world; but, of course, God will not honor them.<\/p>\n
Edom’s Magnifying Himself Against God<\/h3>\n
\u201cAnd ye have magnified yourselves against me with your mouth, and have multiplied your words against me: I have heard it\u201d (vs. 13). The Edomites had every opportunity of knowing that Jehovah the God of the universe was the God of the Israelites. Nevertheless, they thought and spoke of Him as if He were simply a tribal god like the gods of the various nations around them. In their laying claims to the land of Palestine and in their open hostility against the Jews, they magnify themselves against God and speak against Him.<\/p>\n
Whoever takes a stand against God in any such manner and spirit as this will suffer the horrible consequences. Note that the Antichrist of the end time does this very thing and comes to his miserable and horrible end at the second coming of our Lord.<\/p>\n
Edom the Land of the Curse During the Millennium<\/h3>\n
\u201cThus saith the Lord Jehovah: When the whole earth rejoiceth, I will make thee desolate\u201d (vs. 14). The curse will be lifted, at the second coming of Christ, from the entire earth with the exception of the lands of Babylon and Edom. That Babylon will remain under the curse is quite clear from the latter part of Isaiah, chapter 13, and from Isaiah 34:8 to the close. From this thirty-fifth chapter of Ezekiel it is clear that the land of Edom will not be delivered, but that a special curse will rest upon it. This condemned condition will be a living testimony against all anti-Semitism throughout the Millennial Age \u2014 and should be a warning to all at the present time to watch their step and not to take an adverse attitude against the Jew.<\/p>\n
Survival After Death<\/h3>\n
According to verse 15 after the land of Edom has been destroyed and the people wiped from the face of the globe, \u201cthey shall know that I am Jehovah.\u201d This obviously refers to the people of Edom who have gone on to their eternal destiny, and who will be conscious and know the actual conditions that obtain in the land where they lived during their lifetime.<\/p>\n
\nThe Curse Removed from the Land of Israel<\/h1>\n
In Ezekiel 6:1-10 we have a prophecy concerning the judgment that would fall upon the mountains of Israel because of the wickedness of the people who resided in the country. In contrast with this prediction of calamity is the one which is made to the same mountains of Israel in chapter 36 (vss. 1-15), where we read that the curse will be lifted from these very same mountains.<\/p>\n
The Strife in the Land of Palestine<\/h3>\n
God promised Israel when He brought her out of Egyptian bondage that, if she would be faithful to Him, she would have bountiful crops, would be smitten with no diseases, would have no plagues, and that never would any foreign, hostile powers cross her borders and cause trouble. But Israel has been disobedient to the Lord through the centuries. Her land has been torn by strife and war continually. It has been said that Jerusalem has suffered forty-six major sieges during Historic Times. But the time will arise when the last gun will be fired in Jerusalem and the last victim fall to such a tragic death. How the population of Palestine look forward to the glorious era when deliverance will be brought to this unfortunate people!<\/p>\n
In verse 2 we learn that the oracle, found in chapter 36, is spoken to Israel \u201cBecause the enemy hath said against you, Aha! and, The ancient high places are ours in possession.\u201d The enemy here, as we see from the preceding chapter which is joined very closely with this one, is none other than the Edomites and other Arabic countries associated with Edom.<\/p>\n
In this same verse the enemy claims that the land of Palestine, which belongs to the Jew, is her own, and that she possesses the high places of the land. It is a well-known fact that the Jews have settled in the lowlands and valleys of the country, whereas the Arabs have been in the high places. They have claimed, ever since the trouble of recent years have arisen in Palestine, that the country is theirs, because they had been in peaceful possession of it for centuries. Of course, this is only a claim.<\/p>\n
From verse 3 we see that these enemies are the ones who have made the land desolate:<\/p>\n
Because, even because they have made you desolate, and swallowed you up on every side, that ye might he a possession unto the residue of the nations, and ye are taken up in the lips of talkers, and the evil report of the people; 4 therefore, ye mountains of Israel, hear the word of the Lord Jehovah …\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
The country is made desolate in fulfillment of this prediction. Those bringing about this condition are those termed enemies, of whom we have taken notice just above. The result is that the country is thrown into the lap of the residue of the nations.<\/p>\n
Though we may not be dogmatic concerning the exact fulfillment of this prediction, a person can easily see how the recent strife in Palestine has brought about at least a certain amount of the conditions here foretold. The Arabs contested the Jewish claim to Palestine and their right to build their home in the land. Strife entered. The Palestinian situation was dumped into the lap of the league of nations, and they divided the country, which brought about the terrific war of recent months. As a result of that conflict, there has been much desolation and waste throughout the country. Though I am not claiming that this is the fulfillment of the passage, it certainly might be classified as a fulfillment.<\/p>\n
In verses 4 and 5 the Lord gives a special message to these mountains of Israel:<\/p>\n
\u201c… Thus saith the Lord Jehovah to the mountains and to the hills, to the watercourses and to the valleys, to the desolate wastes and to the cities that are forsaken, which are become a prey and a derision to the residue of the nations that are round about; 5 therefore, thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Surely in the fire of my jealousy have I spoken against the residue of the nations, and against Edom, that have appointed my land unto themselves for a possession with the joy of all their heart, with despite of soul, to cast it out for a prey.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
God takes up the matter according to this prediction and champions the cause of Israel in the dispute that the Arabs launch against the Jews for claiming Palestine as their own. He who touches the Jew touches the apple of God’s eye. One cannot entertain anti-Semitic thoughts in his heart and go unpunished by the Lord.<\/p>\n
According to verse 5 the indignation of God is aroused against the rest of the nations and against all Edom that appoint the land of Palestine to themselves for a possession. The oracle which the Lord thunders against the enemies of Israel is this:<\/p>\n
Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold I have spoken in my jealousy and in my wrath, because ye have borne the shame of the nations: 7 therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah: I have sworn, saying, Surely the nations that are round about you, they shall bear their shame.\u201d (vss. 6b,7)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Because of the active hostility that the Arabic nations around Palestine have shown toward the Jewish people, the Lord declared that these nations shall bear the shame, the reproach, and the chastisement for their sins.<\/p>\n
Message of Hope and Comfort to the Mountains of Israel<\/h3>\n
The message of special hope and encouragement to the mountains of Israel is found in verses 8-15.<\/p>\n
The date of this prophecy is given very clearly in verse 8:<\/p>\n
But ye, 0 mountains of Israel, ye shall shoot forth your branches,
\nand yield your fruit to my people Israel; for they are at hand to come.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\nThis passage contemplates a time when the Jews are out of their land but are ready to return to it. When that time arrives, according to the prediction, the country is ready to shoot forth its branches and to bring forth its fruit to full fruition for His people Israel. This passage, studied in the light of related ones, can refer to none other than the final and complete, restoration of the Jews to the land of their fathers in the latter days. When this time comes and the Messiah appears, rending the heavens and descending to the earth, He will lift the curse and then the Land of Palestine, will bring forth its fruit to the returning exiles. From these facts we see that the prophet was carried from his own time across the centuries to the very end of this age, to the times in which we are living.<\/p>\n
Seemingly the Lord has been against the land which He gave to the Jewish fathers and to their children after them. But of course this language cannot be taken literally, for the Lord has not been against the land. But His judgment against the land on account of the people might, in popular thought, be expressed as His being against the land.<\/p>\n
When the time arrives for Israel to return to the land of the fathers, and the soil is to be tilled by them, God promises according to verses 10 and 11 that He will multiply the house of Israel upon the land. The cities of Israel shall be inhabited and the waste places shall he built up. Not only will the population of Israel be increased and Abraham’s seed become as numerous as the stars of heaven, but the beasts of the field likewise will be increased \u2014 as we see in verse 11. Moreover, the crops will he bountiful. There will be sufficient rains at the proper time, and right climatic conditions to produce bumper crops. There will be no mildew, no blasting, no plagues by which the crops will be injured. According to the latter part of verse 11, God declares that He will do better by the nation of Israel in the future than He has ever done before. At the time, as we see in verse 12, the men of Israel will be restored to their land, and they will possess their inheritance within the boundaries of the land which God gave to Abraham, the great father of all the faithful.<\/p>\n
In verses 13 and 14 we see the popular thought expressed concerning the land of Palestine and its being the cause of the people’s being devoured and the population being depleted. But, as stated above, this is only popular language, since there is such abundant evidence throughout the land that it has been under the curse during the time that Israel has been in rebellion against God.<\/p>\n
But when this prophecy is fulfilled, there will be no more curse and no more reproach upon the Jewish people. They will have been restored to their land and to fellowship with God. Then Israel will enjoy her place as the head of the nations instead of being the tail as she is at the present day.<\/p>\n
It is very interesting indeed to the students of prophecy who follow the moving picture that is constantly being shifted in the land of Palestine today. At the same time it behooves us, as we study the Jewish situation, to avoid all speculation and guessing. In other words, it behooves us to be very sane and sound and avoid jumping at hasty conclusions. At the same time we must not be skeptical and consider ourselves unable to see the fulfillment of plain prophecies that God has made concerning the return of the Jewish people to the land of their fathers.<\/p>\n
\n<\/p>\n
Israel’s Restoration to the Land of the Fathers and Her Conversion<\/h1>\n
Ezekiel, chapter 36, is an illustration of the law of recurrence. When the prophets followed this principle, they, figuratively speaking, painted, or blocked out, a certain scene of the future. After that they filled in new details and brought out in brighter or more lurid colors certain characteristics that they put in at the first. Thus in 36:1-15 the prophet foretold the strife between the Arabic nations and the Jews in the end time and of their being finally removed from the scene and Israelis being established in the land of the fathers.<\/p>\n
At this future time great fertility will be the order of the day, and great will be the peace of Jerusalem with her children. In verses 16-38 the prophet went back over this picture and touched up some of the details, making them stand out in bold relief, and added new ones.<\/p>\n
The Cause of Israel’s Dispersion<\/h3>\n
As a person studies the prophecies that were uttered by these various divine spokesmen, he should always remember the broad blueprint of Israel’s history that is set forth in Leviticus, chapter 26, and Deuteronomy, chapter 28.<\/p>\n
In these two passages God promised Israel blessedness with all material comforts and freedom from disease and protection from all attacks by enemies. On the other hand, He warned her that, should she be unfaithful to Him, persist and continue in rebellion, He would be forced by her actions to cast her out of her land, to scatter her among the nations and then, eventually, when she repented of her sin, forsook, and confessed it, to restore her permanently to the land of the fathers. God watches over His Word to perform it. Every promise of blessing that He makes to anyone is fulfilled promptly and completely, whenever the one to whom the promise is made becomes obedient in the spirit and the letter of the command.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, when men and women persist in rebellion and disobedience to God and will not turn from their wickedness, there is but one thing that a holy, righteous, and just God can do, and that is, to bring the threatened punishment. This is what we see stated in Ezekiel 36:16-21 inclusive.<\/p>\n
Israel Regathered and Purified<\/h3>\n
In verses 22-38 we see the bright future that lies ahead for Israel. In the first verse of this portion of the prophecy, God tells why He will restore Israel. It is not because of her goodness or her righteousness, but because of His holy name which she has profaned among the nations whither she has gone. Moses was led to make a similar pronouncement to the people of his generation and to warn them that they were in possession of the land, not because of any goodness or righteousness of their own, but because God loved their ancestors and had entered into a covenant with them. The same principle holds today. God will be true to the holiness of His character, and to the righteousness of His nature. Because of that and of His faithfulness, Israel is preserved.<\/p>\n
For I, Jehovah, change not;
\ntherefore ye, 0 sons of Jacob,
\nare not consumed.\u201d (Malachi 3:6)<\/p><\/blockquote>\nAccording to Ezekiel 36:23 God will sanctify His holy name among the nations, the name of Jehovah which Israel has profaned among them. Then the nations shall know that Jehovah, the Self-existing One, is the true and living God. The word, sanctify, means primarily to set apart from a common to an uncommon use. God is going to sanctify His name and set it apart in such a way that the nations will revere it and will worship Him who wears that ineffable name, Jehovah.<\/p>\n
In verse 24 the prophet speaks of God’s regathering Israel from among the nations whither she has been scattered through the centuries in the overthrow of the city of Jerusalem, in A.D. 70:<\/p>\n
For I will take you from among the nations, and gather you out of all the countries, and will bring you into your own land. 25 And I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.\u201d (Ezekiel 36:24,25)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
All the prophets, from Moses to Malachi prophesied that God would gather Israel from among the nations and place her in her own land. Thus this promise is quite familiar to the one who is acquainted with the prophetic word. When the Lord promises to gather Israel and to restore her to the land, He is speaking of the faithful few of Israel who long for the truth, and who will accept it when it is presented to her.<\/p>\n
In verse 25 we see the promise that He would sprinkle clean water upon Israel and would cleanse her from all of her filthiness, even from all of her idolatry. Unfortunately some expositors, having forgotten the connection in which this promise was made, have thought that the word \u201csprinkle\u201d here refers to water baptism, the Christian ordinance authorized by the Lord Jesus. It is clear from the context that the Lord is speaking of the gathering of Israel and of her being re-established in the land of the fathers. It is an unlawful use of language to take some portion out of an oracle which is purely Jewish and to apply it, in the Christian sense, to the people of all nations. This sprinkling of clean water upon those gathered back to the land can have no reference to water baptism whatsoever. To everyone who is familiar with the teaching of the law of Moses, it is quite evident that this is an echo of such a passage as that which is found in Numbers, chapter 19. Whenever anyone was defiled in any way, as for instance, by touching a dead body unwittingly, he was pronounced unclean ceremonially. He had to carry out certain ritualistic observances and to have the water of separation sprinkled upon him, which was prepared in connection with the ashes of a red heifer. When the defiled person thus observed all the requirements, and when the end of the ceremony of purification was completed by the sprinkling of the water, he was pronounced clean and could associate with the rest of the community as before.<\/p>\n
Should this refer to water baptism in the Christian sense, it is clear that water baptism cleanses. But no one who has the proper conception of the New Testament teaching will for one second claim that the water cleanses or purifies. Such a thought as this is repugnant to the Christian consciousness. It is, however in perfect accord with the ceremonial regulations of the law of Moses. Hence this sprinkling of clean water upon regathered Israel is purely Mosaic and will be fulfilled by Israel when she returns to God in the future.<\/p>\n
Israel, at the time when she returns and is thus cleansed by the Lord, is promised a new heart and a new spirit: \u201cA new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh.\u201d God through Moses (Deuteronomy 29:4) declared that He had not as yet given them a heart to understand; that is, that He did not regenerate the nation. It is true that those who by faith walked with God and trusted Him had created within them clean hearts, as David prayed. The nation as a group were not regenerated. But when this prophecy is fulfilled, the entire nation will accept the Lord Jesus Christ whom they rejected at His first coming. When they act thus and repudiate their national sin of refusing to accept Him and plead for God to perform the miracle of grace in their hearts, according to Psalm 80, they will be given this new heart, and the Spirit will be given to them.<\/p>\n
When God does put His Spirit within regenerated Israel, she will, as a result, truly walk in the statutes of God and keep the ordinances and do them.<\/p>\n
They are promised in verse 28 that they shall remain in the land which God gave to their fathers. Nevermore will they he rooted up from it. They will be the Lord’s people, and He will be their God in the special sense \u2014 as is set forth throughout the writings of Moses and the prophets.<\/p>\n
The Lord also will save them from all uncleanness and filthiness of a physical or of a spiritual nature. The Lord will, furthermore, give them sufficient crops and multiply the increase of their fields. He will lay no famine upon them.<\/p>\n
In verses 30 and 31 again the Lord reiterates the promise of freeing Israel from famine and exempting her from all evil and calamities.<\/p>\n
The entire prophecy concludes with the thought that God will bring about Israel’s return to Him and will regenerate and save the nation. At that time He will restore unto her her land, which will then be built up and inhabited. All of the ruins of the centuries will be removed, and the land will be as the Garden of Eden. They will lack nothing when they are thus established in their own land.<\/p>\n
\nThe Vision of the Valley of Dry Bones<\/h1>\n
In Ezekiel 37:1-14 we have a prediction concerning the gradual restoration of Israel to the land of the fathers. This is found in the first fourteen verses. Sometimes the prophets began their oracles by the regular formula, \u201cThus saith the Lord Jehovah,\u201d or \u201cJehovah of hosts.\u201d Sometimes the truth was communicated to them directly by a vision. Whenever this method of communication was employed, God made vivid and graphic before the spiritual vision of the messenger the truth to be received.<\/p>\n
Several decades ago this passage was a favorite one for an evangelist to use when he began a series of revival services. Of course, when all of the facts of the context are studied, it is quite evident that this passage has nothing to do with the subject of revival in the Christian usage of the term.<\/p>\n
The Restoration of Israel Presented<\/h3>\n
The prophet was shown in vision a great valley. In fact, he was set down in the midst of this valley, which was full of dry bones. Then the Lord caused him to pass around among these bones. As he did so, he looked at them very carefully and declared that they were very, very dry.<\/p>\n
Then the Lord put this question to him: \u201cSon of man, can these bones live?\u201d Ezekiel in a straightforward manner and with the proper attitude replied: \u201c0 Lord Jehovah, thou knowest.\u201d Ezekiel had an unswerving faith in God, a personal Being, who is the Creator and Controller of the universe. He believed that all things are possible with God \u2014 even those things which seem most highly improbable. It is God who can call and make the dead alive, and who can change the night into day.<\/p>\n
At this juncture of the revelation the Lord commanded the prophet to speak to the dry bones and to command them to hear the Word of Jehovah. The message which he delivered to them was: \u201cBehold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live. 6 And I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am Jehovah.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ezekiel Prophesies<\/h3>\n
Ezekiel informs us in verse 7 that he prophesied exactly as he was commanded. There were no doubts nor questionings in his mind. To Him God was equal to the occasion and could carry out anything that He commanded. Let us remember this: \u201cGod’s commandings are His enablings.\u201d God never tells people to do anything that they themselves cannot do, assisted by His divine power.<\/p>\n
When Ezekiel gave the command, doubtless he expected results, which certainly came. Thus, in the vision, as a direct result of his prophesying, there was a noise; or, as the marginal reading renders the word, thundering<\/em>. \u201cAnd, behold, there was an earthquake.\u201d Remember, this was in Ezekiel’s vision.<\/p>\n
When these two things occurred, the bones, scattered all over the valley, as if they were alive, began to move together, each bone taking its position with relation to other bones so as to form skeletons. When these bones had thus taken their position, the prophet noticed that sinews began to appear, connecting each bone to its neighbor bone. Following this, flesh began to appear, and skin formed upon the flesh. At this stage of the process, instead of bones scattered all over the valley, there were bodies of dead men. But let us continue to bear in mind that this is a vision.<\/p>\n
The prophet was commanded to speak to the wind, or spirit, and command it to breathe life into these bodies. This thing he did. When he gave the command, then the Spirit came, imparted life to them, and they arose (in vision) a mighty army of God.<\/p>\n
From this Scripture it is clear that the narrative is intended to be understood as implying that there is the relation of cause and effect existing between the great noise and earthquake on the one hand and the movement of the dry bones, on the other. Moreover, it is self-evident that a process is indicated by that which follows the earthquake and the great noise. This quite obviously is a process.<\/p>\n
The Divine Interpretation of the Vision<\/h3>\n
If the passage had stopped here, the entire revelation thus far would have been indeed an enigma, or a riddle. But the Lord was very gracious to give us the divine interpretation. At this point let us note that there is congruity and fitness between the symbol and the thing signified. God always chooses appropriate objects to set forth the truth which He has in mind. Thus He declared, in verse 11, \u201cSon of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost! we are clean cut off.\u201d Since the bones could not literally be the whole house of Israel, it is immediately evident that they here are used symbolically to signify the whole house of Israel. This language reminds one of the vision which was granted to Pharaoh and interpreted by Joseph. He saw seven fat kine coming up out of the river that were followed by seven lean ones. The latter devoured the former. The vision was doubled. There came up seven stalks of grain, full, and most promising. Following them there came up seven blasted stalks that devoured the first ones. Then Joseph interpreted these two symbols and said that they both signified the same thing, which was that there would be seven years of plenty and seven years of famine. He therefore said that the seven fat kine were the seven years of plenty; the seven lean kine the seven years of famine. It is clear that the bones in Ezekiel, chapter 37, are used symbolically of the nation of Israel.<\/p>\n
Let us note that these bones represent the whole<\/em> house of Israel \u2014 not a part of them, but the entire nation. Ezekiel knew nothing of \u201cten lost tribes.\u201d In this vision he saw all of the bones together \u2014 and they represented the twelve tribes, which fact shows that the ten and the two tribes of Israel were associated together and could not be separated.<\/p>\n
This is a vision of the twelve tribes of Israel at a certain stage of their career. It represents them at the time that they say, \u201cOur hope is lost, we are clean cut off.\u201d What is the hope of Israel? Instantly the Bible student will reply, \u201cIt is the hope of the coming of the Messiah, who is to be the Redeemer of the nation.\u201d Thus the prophet looked forward to the time when the nation would give up all interest in and reliance upon the coming of the Messiah. We must remember that this vision does not represent the entire nation throughout the centuries, but only at the time when she has given up her national hope, which has been reposed in Messiah and His advent. Since the hope is trust in the coming of Messiah and His redemptive work, and since the nation of Israel has held tenaciously to this hope through the centuries up until modern times, we may be certain that this vision represents the nation only when it reaches the point that it has lost all faith in that hope and attempts to solve its own problems. When did the nation of Israel thus give up this hope? Those who are familiar with Jewish history know that it is only in these modem times after rationalism began to permeate the Jewish race as it has the Christian ranks. Thus it is quite evident that the prophet was carried forward in vision and saw the nation of Israel at the present time in her forlorn and despairing condition.<\/p>\n
When Israel is thus in this state, that she has given up her national hope, then there is something that occurs and that affects the nation just as the earthquake in the vision occurred and caused the movement which brought the bones together. As stated above, there is congruity, fitness, and appropriateness in the Lord’s selection of the symbol and His applying it to the thing signified. Earthquakes and tremendous noises that follow are always destructive. Thus we may be certain that this earthquake symbolized something destructive, something that affected the Jewish nation materially, causing them to come together.<\/p>\n
Has anything occurred in the world since Israel has been in this forlorn condition, that has affected the nation of Israel causing her to come together? Everyone who is familiar with the events of World War I and its impact and effect upon the Jewish nation can understand what is here referred to. The great war and its aftermath affected the Jews to such an extent that they realized that they were unwelcome guests among the nations, and that their only hope of survival was by returning to the land of their fathers. Thus the Zionistic movement, which had been simply a little trickle of national hope and aspiration, was turned into a great stream that flooded world-Jewry.<\/p>\n
As indicated by the coming together of the bones, the sinews appearing, the flesh growing, upon the bones, and the skin forming over the flesh, we have set forth in this passage of Scripture the thought that there would be a gradual development of a movement that would be quickened and accelerated by World War I with its aftermath, and that would eventuate in the restoration of Israel to the land of the fathers and her conversion. God uses men and means and natural occurrences to bring about the desired results.<\/p>\n
Let us remember this: The human side of the situation and human efforts are set forth by the coming together of the bones, the binding of them together by the sinews, the appearance of the flesh, and the covering of the flesh with the skin. These are purely symbolic of efforts which Israel alone puts forth.<\/p>\n
But the breathing into these lifeless bodies, by the Spirit of God, of life and vigor represents a supernatural event, the conversion of the nation. Thus there is implied in this passage the evangelization of the Jewish nation, her being brought under conviction of her need of a Saviour and of her final turning to the Messiah and accepting Him, at which time life and power are granted to the Jewish people.<\/p>\n
To the end of Israel’s conversion and restoration, let us labor and pray always.<\/p>\n
\nThe Scattered Nation of Israel Reunited under King Messiah<\/h1>\n
God’s original plan for the nation of Israel as revealed in the revelation of Moses was that she should constitute a theocracy, a nation ruled directly by God. The high priest was the one who headed up the priesthood, which approached God for the nation. In the process of time, however, Israel desired to be like other nations and rejected the idea of a theocracy and insisted upon God’s allowing her to have a king. The Lord, therefore, gave her a king in His anger and took him away in His wrath (Hosea 13:11). The Lord chose Saul; but, when he proved himself unworthy for the honor, He rejected him and selected David, a man after His own heart, who reigned over Israel for forty-years and was succeeded by his son Solomon, who likewise reigned for forty years.<\/p>\n
Upon the conclusion of Solomon’s reign the kingdom was rent in twain, ten of the tribes revolted from the throne of David and established a separate kingdom in the north, known as the kingdom of Israel, Ephraim, or Jacob. Thus the two governments, the kingdom of Judah in the south and that of Israel in the north, continued running along, side by side, for a period of 264 years. Finally, in the year 719 B. C., the northern kingdom was overthrown by the more powerful Assyrian Empire. According to the Assyrian records 27,290 leaders of the nation were taken into captivity and were colonized in certain portions of the Assyrian Empire. The great bulk of the people were allowed to remain in the land of their fathers. Governors, the choice of the Assyrians, were placed over those remaining in the land. There was a feeling of bitter enmity that arose at the time of the division of the Davidic kingdom and that continued through the years. This hostility was naturally heightened when the Assyrian monarch brought in Asiatics and colonized them among the masses who remained in the land. They intermarried more or less with the native Israelites. There, therefore, sprang up a mongrel nation that became known as the Samaritans. This turn of affairs embittered the Jews against the people of the northern kingdom.<\/p>\n
Ezekiel, in chapter 37:15-28, foretold that this disrupted condition would cease, and that the twelve tribes would become a single nation under the reign of King Messiah.<\/p>\n
Ezekiel spoke this prediction from the standpoint of his time. As stated above, the hostility that came about at the time of the disruption continued throughout the centuries. Ezekiel therefore spoke in terms of a condition that had been existing for decades.<\/p>\n
The Symbolic Significance of The Two Sticks<\/h3>\n
Ezekiel was commanded to take two sticks. Upon one he was to write, \u201cFor Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions.\u201d On the other he was to write, \u201cFor Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for<\/em> all the house of Israel his companions.\u201d Then he was to join them together, binding them so that they would be united into one stick.<\/p>\n
The Lord interpreted the significance of the symbolic action in the following words:<\/p>\n
… say unto them, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his companions; and I will put them with it, even<\/em> with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in my hand 20 And the sticks whereon thou writest shall be in thy hand before their eyes. 21 And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the nations, whither they are gone, and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land: 22 and I will make them one nation in the land, upon the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king to them all; and they shall be no more two nations, neither shall they be divided into two kingdoms anymore at all; 23 neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions; but I will save them out of their dwelling-places, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.\u201d (Ezekiel 37:19-23)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
From this prediction it is very clear that the prophet was carried forward to some time in the future when all Israel \u2014 all the twelve tribes now scattered among the nations of earth \u2014 will be gathered back and will constitute one nation. In other words, the rift that was made at the time of the disruption shall be eliminated and all of them will come together, shoulder to shoulder, with one purpose \u2014 to serve the true and the living God. At that time God will restore the ancient order and will have only one sovereign over the entire nation.<\/p>\n
When this vision is fulfilled, we are told that Israel will never more defile herself with idolatry or the detestable things; neither will she go off into the transgressions of which she was constantly guilty throughout the long centuries of her existence. This is another way of saying what Balaam foretold in Numbers 23:21:<\/p>\n
He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob;
\nNeither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: Jehovah his God is with him,
\nAnd the shout of a king is among them.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\nKing Messiah’s Reign Over the Nation<\/h3>\n
When this prophecy is fulfilled, the Lord will put His servant David as King over His people. Who is meant by this prophecy? King David raised from the dead? Or is this King Messiah? Many are the passages which tell us that, when Israel is restored to her land, God himself personally will reign over the nation. For instance, in Isaiah 33:17-24 we have a marvelous picture of the King of Israel in all of His beauty as He will reign in purified, glorified Jerusalem. In verse 22 we have language to this effect. \u201cFor Jehovah is our judge, Jehovah is our lawgiver, Jehovah is our king; he will save us\u201d (33:22). Zephaniah gave us a marvelous and beautiful prediction concerning Messiah, who is none other than the second person of the Trinity in human form, and His reign in the city of Jerusalem:<\/p>\n
Sing, 0 daughter of Zion; shout, 0 Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, 0 daughter of Jerusalem. 15 Jehovah hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the King of Israel, even Jehovah, is in the midst of thee; thou shall not fear evil any more. 16 In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not; 0 Zion, let not thy hands be slack. 17 Jehovah thy God is in the midst of thee, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love; he will joy over thee with singing.\u201d (Zephaniah 3:14-17)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
From these and many other passages it is quite evident that Jehovah in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ will be Israel’s King, who will reign in the new Jerusalem, glorified and magnified. But why is he called David? The reason is that He is a descendant of David. This use is certainly found in such a passage as I Kings 12:16. When Rehoboam refused to relieve the burden of taxes upon his accession to the throne of Israel, the people of the northern kingdom revolted and shouted: \u201cWhat portion have we in David? neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse: to your tents, 0 Israel: now see to thine own house, David.\u201d They were not talking to literal David but to Rehoboam, grandson of David. Thus, since it is Jehovah who will reign in Jerusalem during the Millennial Era, and since He is called David, it is quite obvious that the name David<\/em> is simply used in this secondary or accommodated sense, indicating that He (Messiah) is of the lineage of David.<\/p>\n
When Israel is thus gathered out from among the nations, she will dwell in her own land. When the people are thus restored in fulfillment of this prediction, they will never be rooted out and King Messiah, who is again called \u201cDavid my servant\u201d will be \u201ctheir prince for ever,\u201d that is, continually, as long as the sun, moon, earth and this present material universe continues (Psalm 89:35-37).<\/p>\n
At that time God promises to enter into a new covenant of peace with the nation of Israel. This is to be an everlasting covenant. It will never be changed. This doubtless is the covenant of which various prophets spoke. Especially did Jeremiah foretell it in 31:31.<\/p>\n
God’s tabernacle will be with Israel at the time. He will be their God; and they shall be His people. This sanctuary or Temple is described in the last section of Ezekiel, chapter 40ff.<\/p>\n
At that time the nation of Israel will sanctify Jehovah, will reverence Him, will worship Him, and will never depart from Him any more. She will sustain a special relationship with Him. He will be the God of Israel, and they shall be His people. Israel will then be the head of the nations, instead of being the tail as at the present time.<\/p>\n
\nThe Overthrow of the Russian Forces that Invade Palestine (Chapter 38)<\/h1>\n
We have come in this series to Ezekiel, chapter 38, which deals with the overthrow of the Russian forces in Palestine. This subject is a very arresting one and should stimulate in us an intense desire to investigate it. You may ask me why I am so bold as to talk upon something that is in the future. You may say, Have not men from time to time tried to unravel the secrets of the future, have erred in judgment, have become dogmatic by looking at the trend of events, and have made erroneous predictions? I must answer these questions in the affirmative. The Eternal God is the one who frustrates the prognostications of uninspired men. He does not run the universe according to a man-made timetable or schedule, but He has revealed to us certain things that will come to pass. Such prophecies are so very definite and specific that one can recognize the event as the time is approaching. Prophecies made by the men of God in ancient times, that are in the distant future from the people of a certain generation, may be hazy and indistinct from their point of view, but, as the time approaches and draws very close at hand when those predictions are to be fulfilled, the light from the times and the environment in which the prophecy will be fulfilled will throw a clear light upon the predictions, which will enable a person to interpret accurately the prophecies \u2014 provided he is willing to take God at His Word, discover what is in the prediction, and not attempt to read anything in the Word of God that is not there.<\/p>\n
Everyone throughout the nation, yes, doubtless throughout all nations, are on the tiptoe of fear, dread, and deep anxiety concerning what Russia, with her satellites that are behind the iron curtain, may do at any time. According to reports that are heard on every hand \u2014 over the radio, in the press, and in lectures \u2014 Russia, like an overgrown bully, has been strutting around on the theatre of the world and acting as if she were the lord of creation. Every open-minded, unbiased person recognizes this fact.<\/p>\n
From the time of the Russian revolution back in 1917 to the present moment the leaders of that godless movement have, in plain language, asserted their aims and objectives, namely, the subjection of the world to them. To do this, they do not hesitate to assert that they will destroy the capitalistic system, which to them is the very embodiment of greed, selfishness, and brutality on the part of the few who are simply exploiting the great masses. What the little clique of the Kremlin intends to do they attribute to the leaders of the free peoples. Of course, they always put up a smoke screen to cover up their diabolical, cruel, ruthless plans and schemes to enslave the world.<\/p>\n
More and more, it is becoming clearly apparent that the Russians intend to continue their program of infiltration into the nations and, having captured key positions into which they put their own men, they cause revolutions, which bring into the camp of Moscow peoples who hitherto enjoyed freedom and liberty. The peoples of Eastern Europe are examples of this special technique of the Bolshevists. Before our eyes we see China going down under the hammer and the sickle. Other nations are on the communistic slate, thus to be captured and brought into the fold of the Kremlin.<\/p>\n
No intelligent, informed person can fail to see the development and spread of godless communism, as the sinister shadow of the Kremlin is creeping over the entire Asiatic Continent, especially.<\/p>\n
The Communists are bold in declaring their plans and purposes to conquer the world and to enslave all mankind. This may be a surprise, and doubtless is, to the bulk of humanity. But it is no surprise to the one who understands the teaching of the infallibly inspired Word of God. What the world is slowly beginning to apprehend, the prophet Ezekiel drew in accurate outline and painted in the most lurid colors. There is no misunderstanding this prophecy, because it is very clear, specific, and straight-forward.<\/p>\n
We have every reason to believe that the prophet Ezekiel was carried forward by the Spirit, as the prophets often were, in vision, and was set down in the midst of some future location or situation which he describes in detail. That this is true is evident by verse 8 of chapter 38. This is timed, or dated, for the latter days \u2014 the days in which you and I, dear friends, are living. Conditions which exist today are reflected here and there throughout the prophecy contained in 38:1-39:16.<\/p>\n
In order to get within the compass of a very few words the message of this mighty oracle, I will ask myself three questions and then answer them: First,<\/em> who constitute the personnel of this oracle? Second,<\/em> what does the prophet say will occur? Third,<\/em> when will it transpire? Reduced to the simplest forms, the questions are who, what, when? Let us take these questions in order.<\/p>\n
WHO?<\/h3>\n
Who are the personnel of this drama? <\/em>First, the nations constituting the great northeastern confederacy \u2014 the nations behind the iron curtain. They are Russia, the leader of the group, Persia (Iran), Ethiopia, Put, which is probably Eritrea in the Angle-Egyptian Sudan, Germany, and Turkey. But, some asks, are these nations mentioned in prophecy? Most positively! Not, however, in their present-day nomenclature, but in terms that were current in the prophet’s day. The study of these names involves an investigation into philology, the study of words. It is impossible for me to enter into this subject now. I do that in my volume, When Gog’s Armies Meet the Almighty.<\/em><\/a> Allied with these nations will be vast hordes of others, as the prophet Ezekiel said. I have no doubt, in the light of the present spread of communism, that the hordes of Asia which are now being brought into the fold of the Kremlin are the ones involved.<\/p>\n
The second group of nations is \u201cSheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with all the young lions thereof, …\u201d (Ezekiel 38:13). Sheba and Dedan are identified by many as being Muscat and Aden in Southern Arabia. Tarshish is England, as I prove in my book, When Gog’s Armies Meet the Almighty.<\/em> But who are the young lions thereof? In order to understand the significance of this expression, we must interpret it literally if the context demands such a meaning; if not, it is to be understood figuratively. Lions, here, cannot be understood literally, because they are represented as talking and joining their voices with those of Sheba, Dedan, and England. In the light of this fact, then, we are confident that these lions are symbols. When an animal in the Scriptures is thus used, what is its significance? From Daniel 7:17,23 we learn that they indicate kings and their dominions. \u201cThese beasts,\u201d declared the angel, \u201cwhich are four, are four kings that arise out of the earth.\u201d In verse 23 we read that \u201cthe fourth beast is a fourth kingdom.\u201d Understanding, then, that beasts symbolize human governments, or kingdoms, we look at the passage under consideration, namely, Ezekiel 38. Here are young lions joining their voices with those of England, Sheba, and Dedan. To interpret these young lions as civil governments \u2014 the younger powers of the Western World joined with England \u2014 is to see a beautiful harmony in the entire passage. We therefore conclude that these young lions are the younger Western Democracies that are allied with the British; in other words, those powers that are recognized as the powers of the West in contrast with the governments behind the iron curtain.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 38:7-9 we see the State of Israel. It is spoken of as the people who have gathered back out from among the nations and are established in their own land, enjoying peace, plenty, and prosperity. The personnel of this prophecy, then, consists of the Western Democracies, on the one hand, who are opposed by Russia and her satellite nations on the other side of the iron curtain, and the youngest nation \u2014 yet, paradoxically, the oldest nation \u2014 of modern times, Israel.<\/p>\n
WHAT?<\/h3>\n
Our second question is, What is foretold as coming to pass according to this prophecy?<\/em> From Ezekiel 38:9 we learn that Gog, with all his hordes, ascends, comes like a storm against Israel, and then settles down over the land like a cloud. In the light of modern developments, this passage can mean only one thing: an airborne army with all its equipment and ordnance to carry on a mighty attack.<\/p>\n
When this occurs, the wrath of the Almighty will come up into His nostrils, for in the fire of His jealousy and wrath hath He spoken: \u201cSurely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel …\u201d<\/p>\n
When Russia thus seizes Palestine, the Western Powers will send a weak protest. They do not demand that Russia withdraw instantly, or else! On the contrary, they put their protest in the form of questions: \u201cArt thou come to take the spoil? hast thou assembled thy company to take the prey? to carry away silver and gold, to take away cattle and goods, to take great spoil?\u201d As I have already suggested, this mild language is seen in its proper perspective when one realizes the situation that has arisen in the last decade. This gentleness in dealing with such a serious, world-shaking event is the carrying out of the appeasement policy that began back at Munich. Moreover, another factor contributing to our understanding of this mild language is to be found in the fact that there is a United Nations Organization, and all such international questions are supposed to be brought before it. Another element entering, into this matter is an eager and earnest desire on the part of the Western Powers not to precipitate a world conflict.<\/p>\n
God steps into the picture and champions the cause of His beloved people Israel. He causes an earthquake to shake down the mountains of Israel. Since there are vast hordes of people behind the iron curtain who invade Palestine in this initial spearhead in a drive for world domination, we can, while staying within the bounds of reason and fact, imagine millions of men engaged in this stupendous operation. I must emphasize the fact that there is but one force mentioned in the prophecy, and that is the invading army. The Western Powers do not so much as turn their hand upside down after they issue their mild protest.<\/p>\n
The Almighty, by different means, completely wipes out the colossal invading army:<\/p>\n
For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; 20 so that the fishes of the sea, and the birds of the heavens, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground. 21 And I will call for a sword against him unto all my mountains, saith the Lord Jehovah: every man’s sword shall be against his brother. 22 And with pestilence and with blood will I enter into judgment with him: and I will rain upon him and upon his hordes, and upon the many peoples that are with him, an overflowing shower, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.\u201d
\n(Ezekiel 38:19-22)<\/p><\/blockquote>\nWHEN?<\/h3>\n
When will this great invasion by Russia occur?<\/em> There are four different answers given by Bible students. Some date it as occurring before the Tribulation; others are convinced that it will occur during the Tribulation; while still others think it will take place during the Millennium; and some believe that it will take place at the conclusion of our Lord’s millennial reign. Obviously three of these answers are incorrect.<\/p>\n
Which is the right one? Let us take them in the reverse order. Is it possible for this prediction of the invasion of Palestine by the nations behind the iron curtain to be the one that is spoken of in Revelation, chapter 20? Many sincere expositors identify the two predictions as referring to the same event, occurring after Our Lord’s reign. One consideration disproves this position. The invasion foretold by Ezekiel is a local affair \u2014 local in contrast to a global, international military operation. We have already seen that those invading Palestine are simply the nations behind the iron curtain. The Western Democracies protest, even though weakly. What about the one prophesied by John in Revelation, chapter 20? At the conclusion of our Lord’s reign of a thousand years upon the earth, we see that people will go up \u2014 being stirred by the devil, who at that time will be unloosed for a little season \u2014 against Jerusalem at the camp of the saints from the four corners of the earth. They will go there, as we learn by comparing scripture with scripture, to intimidate our Lord. Just such a movement as that occurred in the days of ex-President Herbert Hoover. There was a hunger march upon Washington. It was designed solely for the purpose of embarrassing the administration. Thus there will be a youth movement that will be going up from the four corners of the globe to try to intimidate Christ. This fact shows that the Apostle John was talking about an international affair. It is clear, then, from these facts, that Ezekiel foretold a purely local affair, whereas John prophesied concerning an international invasion. The two movements cannot be identical. Therefore we reject the fourth answer to this question as being impossible.<\/p>\n
Can this occur during our Lord’s reign upon the earth? My answer is an emphatic no! The reason for such a dogmatic position is that, when our Lord returns, He will destroy all the weapons of war. From that time on nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. It will be impossible to equip, under the regime of our Lord, such an army as the one mentioned by Ezekiel’s prophecy. This fact discredits the third answer as to when Ezekiel’s prophecy will be fulfilled.<\/p>\n
The second answer places the fulfillment of this particular prophecy in the Tribulation Period, especially at the end. Is this interpretation feasible or reasonable? I say again, emphatically, no! Why? you may ask. When Russia invades Palestine in fulfillment of Ezekiel, chapters 38 and 39, the Jews will be dwelling in their own land, in peace, enjoying plenty and prosperity. They will be dwelling in cities without walls. During the Tribulation Israel’s condition will be entirely different. According to Isaiah, she will be hounded down from time to time. Many of the Jews will be languishing in prison; others will be in hiding in the caves and the holes of the earth, and in the mountain-fastnesses and gorges. Israel’s condition when the prophecy is fulfilled, on the contrary, will be that of peace, plenty, and prosperity. The Chosen People’s condition in the Tribulation will be anything else but that. We therefore know from this angle that Ezekiel’s prophecy cannot be fulfilled during the Tribulation.<\/p>\n
If this prophecy cannot be fulfilled at the conclusion of the Tribulation; nor at the conclusion of the Millennium; nor during the Millennium; nor during the Tribulation, it must be fulfilled before the Tribulation. From this position there is no possible escape.<\/p>\n
In view of these facts it is quite evident that, since we are approaching very rapidly the end of this age and the Tribulation Period, we are much closer to the fulfillment of this prediction than most of us imagine. We shall not be illogical and err very far if we should say that there is a possibility that the fulfillment of this prediction is just around the corner.<\/p>\n
May the Lord open our eyes and enable us to see the world situation and what is confronting us at the present time is my sincere, earnest prayer.<\/p>\n
Do, friends, pray that the people of God may awake and be alert to the times in which we are living. Pray God that He may lead us to see clearly the import of these marvelous predictions and then adjust our plans to His.<\/p>\n
Now may the blessing’s of the Triune God rest upon each one of us until the Lord returns for His saints. Amen.<\/p>\n
\nThe Overthrow of the Antichrist’s Forces Invade Palestine (Chapter 39)<\/h1>\n
Our study this month is a continuation of the study of Russia’s invasion of Palestine and the one by the Antichrist at the end of the Tribulation.<\/p>\n
You will bear with me while I call your attention to a very important fact regarding this prophecy that is so very greatly misunderstood. Because of a misunderstanding on this point, this prophecy has been the occasion of much confusion. Remember, the trouble and difficulty is not with the Word of God, but with our failure to notice carefully what it says. May I remind you, dear friends, that if we ignore even small words, which might seem very insignificant, we may fail to get the proper slant upon a passage and thus miss its meaning. Moreover, if we are to understand the Word of God correctly, especially the prophecies, we must know the fundamental principles that underlie them.<\/p>\n
There are two principles of prophetic interpretation recognized by all interpreters. These basic principles find an application in this prophecy. The first one is called the Law of Recurrence<\/em>. Remember that name, for it will stand you in good stead as you read your Bible. The Law of Recurrence<\/em> what is it? The prophet very frequently described in a general way something which he saw as being fulfilled in the future. He described what he saw, omitting, however, some details. After thus fixing in our minds the thing in a general way, he filled in the details, or added new features, that clarified the first part of his oracle.<\/p>\n
A simple little illustration will stamp this principle indelibly upon your mind. I once saw a famous artist paint the portrait of a lady. It took him quite a time to get the light in the room right. Moreover, it took him some time to satisfy himself with her pose and the expression on her face. Finally, when every condition was satisfactory, he did what artists call \u201cblocking-out\u201d the portrait. In about ten minutes he had transferred to the canvas the likeness of the lady. Then to my surprise he said, \u201cThis is enough for today. When may we have the second sitting?\u201d The date was set. At this second sitting, when everything was ready, he began to bring out more clearly certain features and to add new ones. Thus he was going over the portrait that he had blocked out at the first sitting. Remember, friends, this illustration sets before us one of the basic principles of interpreting prophecy, which is known by Bible expositors as the Law of Recurrence.<\/em><\/p>\n
In Ezekiel, chapter 38, the prophet, in terms of my illustration, blocked out the portrait, the picture of the invasion of the land of Palestine by Russia. We saw last month that, when she does that, she meets God Almighty, who in an open and manifest way completely destroys all of the Russian forces \u2014 both those invading Palestine and those remaining at home, together with all the war potential, and the Soviet spy system throughout the world. These are the things which we saw painted into the portrait or picture at the first sitting, that is, in chapter 38.<\/p>\n
In chapter 39:1-16 we see the work which Ezekiel, our artist, did at the second sitting, as he completed his picture.<\/p>\n
What did he do? Or what details then did he add? He touched up in lurid colors the main feature which I discussed last time, namely, the liquidation, the annihilation of all Russia’s forces \u2014 first those invading Israel. Then he added new details \u2014 the destruction of the forces in her homeland and her war potential, together with the Soviet spy system throughout the whole world. This is seen in verse 6 of chapter 39.<\/p>\n
Another detail which Ezekiel adds in the work at the second sitting is an account by the prophet of the vast amount of combustible material that will be left on the open fields of Palestine after the invading, besieging host have been completely destroyed by the Lord. I said \u201ccombustible\u201d material. When you read this account in the 39th chapter of Ezekiel, you will see that the prophet speaks of it as wood. Wood was the fuel for warming the homes and for the cooking of the food in the prophet’s day and time. Some have erroneously thought that this passage presupposes the discontinuance by the armies of the world of modern steel weapons and a reversion to primitive weapons, bows and arrows and the like. I have been unable to see any justification for such an interpretation as this. Everyone knows that much wood is used in the boxing and the crating of the munitions of war. It is altogether possible that other material that may be burned, same as wood, will be used in the manufacture and the boxing of ammunition and other ordnance of that vast army. After its overthrow, this fuel will be left upon the open field. There will be a sufficient amount of it to supply fuel for seven years for the population that will survive that time. Let us remember that, in Palestine, very little fuel is consumed. Its climate is similar to that of Southern California. Moreover, the people are accustomed to the strictest economy in the use of fuel. Thus I have no difficulty with understanding this prophecy literally, as referring to the great amount of wood and combustible material that would be left by the destroyed armies.<\/p>\n
Another detail is added in the work that the artist Ezekiel performs at his second sitting. This new information comes in the form of a prophecy that, for seven months, guards and groups of men will be employed in removing the dead bodies of the destroyed army and of burying them in a place east of the Jordan that will be known as Hamon-gog, or, \u201cthe company and host of God.\u201d Men will diligently search for the bones of those whose flesh has either been eaten by the vultures or birds of prey, or has decayed. Thus ceremonially, according to the law of Moses, the land will be cleansed during a period of seven months.<\/p>\n
Thus by reading chapter 38:1 \u2014 39:16, that is, the entire 38th chapter and the first sixteen verses of chapter 39, we get a full and complete prophecy \u2014 all that the Lord has seen fit to reveal to us \u2014 in this one block of Scripture. This part of the prediction will be, as we saw a week ago, fulfilled before the Tribulation, that period of judgment consisting of seven years, following the rapture of the saints.<\/p>\n
There is another principle of prophecy that is operative at this point in Ezekiel’s prediction, which we call The Law of Double Reference<\/a>. Did you ever hear of that expression \u2014 The Law of Double Reference<\/a>? I’m sure you have! What does it mean? I shall be very glad to tell you \u2014 but I believe that an illustration will make it clearer, bring it into sharper focus in your mind. You have attended lantern lectures, haven’t you? Yes, many times of course! There are lanterns that give what we call the \u201cdissolving effect.\u201d A picture is thrown upon the screen. The observer looks at it, studies it, is perhaps entranced and thrilled by it. But presently he notices that it begins to fade, to become dim, and then to vanish. At the same time there appear, indistinctly, new features that were not there at first. As the old picture fades out, the new features become clear and distinct; and presently an entirely different picture is occupying the screen. This is a perfect illustration of The Law of Double Reference<\/a>. Now notice, Ezekiel, chapter 38:1 to 39:16 gives us the first portrait for a picture that is thrown upon the screen. We have already sat and looked at it and found it very absorbing.<\/p>\n
When we begin to read at verse 17 of chapter 39, we see this first picture \u2014 the invasion of Palestine by the Russians and their complete annihilation by God Almighty himself \u2014 becoming dim. It is at this point that the dim outlines of another picture begin to appear. Do you want to see these outlines? All right, let us read Ezekiel 39:17:<\/p>\n
And thou, son of man, thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Speak unto the birds of every sort, and to every beast of the field, Assemble yourselves, and come; gather yourselves on every side to my sacrifice that I do sacrifice for you, even a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel, that ye may eat flesh and drink blood.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Here is a picture of a banquet which God prepares for the birds of the heavens, and beasts of the fields. The table is set; the invitation is given; and that which is placed before the birds and the beasts is spoken of as a sacrifice, \u201cEven a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel, that ye may eat flesh and drink blood.\u201d Such language reminds one of passages like Isaiah, chapter 34, verses 6 and 7. But we find language almost identical to this in Revelation 19:17,18. Here it is:<\/p>\n
And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in mid heaven, Come and be gathered together unto the great supper of God; 18 that ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses and of them that sit thereon, and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, and small and great.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Since Ezekiel in this passage is speaking of something that is out in the future \u2014 something that obviously has never come to pass \u2014 and since John, in the passage from Revelation which I have just read, uses similar language to describe the Lord’s slaughtering the armies of the kings of the world under the leadership of the Antichrist, we here obtain a possible clue to the interpretation of Ezekiel 39:17-29. When we read the 18th verse, we see the picture more clearly: \u201cYe shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth.\u201d<\/p>\n
Here we see the destruction by the Lord of an international force: \u201cYe shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth.\u201d The princes of the earth, all of them, are in this picture. A realization of this point is absolutely necessary. Remember that, in 38:1 \u2014 39:16, the prophet has been talking about the invasion of Palestine by the nations behind the iron curtain \u2014 a local operation \u2014 and of their being destroyed directly by the Lord. Beginning with verse 17 of chapter 39, on the contrary, we have a prophecy concerning the overthrow of an international force<\/em> by the Lord God himself.<\/p>\n
Confirmation of this position and further light may be gleaned from verse 21. \u201cAnd I will set my glory among the nations; and all the nations shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them. So the house of Israel shall know that I am Jehovah their God, from that day and forward.\u201d<\/p>\n
From the flow of thought we see that, after the destruction of this inter-national force which invades Palestine, God sets His glory among the nations and all peoples see His judgment that He has executed upon this international force, the armies of the Antichrist.<\/p>\n
What is meant by God’s setting His glory among the nations? When this statement is read in the light of others of the Sacred Word, it becomes apparent that the prophet was talking about the Messiah, who is the glory of the invisible God, and who will appear upon earth to reign in the city of Jerusalem for a thousand years, over all the earth \u2014 among all nations. God thus sets His glory among the nations by our Lord’s return and by His creating Jerusalem the joy of the whole earth.<\/p>\n
Further information that assists us in identifying this prophecy is found in verse 22: \u201cSo the house of Israel shall know that I am Jehovah their God, from that day and forward.“ From what day? From the day of God’s destroying this international force that will invade Palestine and that will be overthrown by the Lord himself. When this passage is laid beside Revelation, chapters 19 and 20, a person can see that Ezekiel, in the latter half of chapter 39, was speaking of the same thing, namely, the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ at the end of the Tribulation. His destroying the forces of the Antichrist, and of His establishing His reign of righteousness upon the earth. The two passages run parallel and are unmistakably predictions of the same events.<\/p>\n
When we look at Ezekiel 39:25 we see still further confirmation:<\/p>\n
Therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah:
\nNow will I bring back the captivity of Jacob,
\nand have mercy upon the whole house of Israel;
\nand I will be jealous for my holy name.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\nAt that time the Lord will complete the second restoration of His people as He brings them back from among the nations where they have been scattered throughout the Christian centuries, and they will be established in their own land. The Lord will bring the judgments of the Tribulation upon the world, and especially upon Israel, in order to break the power of the Holy People (Daniel 12:7), with this purpose in view, that they will repudiate all of their sins, especially their national sin of rejecting Him, and will plead for Him to return. When they do this, they will be restored to their own land and become the head of the nations, instead of being the tail as they are now.<\/p>\n
With this little survey of this most interesting and informative prophecy, we have seen the two pictures thrown by the inspiration of the Spirit upon the canvas before us: the invasion of Palestine by the forces of Gog, the nations behind the iron curtain, and their being overthrown, which mighty catastrophic event occurs before the Tribulation. We have seen the invasion of the land of Palestine at the end of the Tribulation by the Antichrist and all of his hosts, which are overthrown at the very end of the Tribulation. Thus the two invasions and their overthrow by divine interposition are blended in these two chapters.<\/p>\n
If the reader wishes to pursue this little study further, read such a passage as Zechariah, chapter 14. There you see the invasion of Palestine by the armies of the world, Jehovah’s appearing, and His feet standing at that day upon the Mount of Olives, at which time He completely destroys all of these nations. Then there will dawn a new day \u2014 that day which is compared to a cloudless day after a rain, with its clear shining: (II Samuel 23:4).<\/p>\n
Friends, we who know God in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, who have washed our robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, have every occasion to rejoice in the revelations which God has given to us in His Word. We may be in the minority now, we may be numbered among those who are accounted as the offscouring of the earth, but then \u2014 when He comes \u2014 it will be seen that we are on the winning side. Then the glory of the Eternal One will burst forth upon the world from which the curse will be snatched by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ. At that time He will establish His reign of righteousness, peace, and justice upon the earth. For this coming day, we most ardently look.<\/p>\n
\nThe Millennial Jerusalem<\/h1>\n
In Ezekiel 40:1 to the close of the book we have the last oracle by this prophet. It is dated in the twenty-fifth year of Ezekiel’s captivity, which was the captivity of Jehoiachin. This twenty-fifth year was the fourteenth year after the fall of the city of Jerusalem, which judgment fell in the eleventh year of Jehoiakim, since Jehoiachin’s three months of reign are counted in the eleventh year of his predecessor, Jehoiakim. Ezekiel therefore dates his prophecies in terms of the captivity of Jehoiachin.<\/p>\n
The fact that the prophets very frequently state that the word of Jehovah came unto them upon a certain date implies that they were not inspired all the time \u2014 under the guidance of the Spirit. Had they thus been inspired every moment of their lives, they would have had no occasion to speak of the word of Jehovah and its coming to them on certain dates. When they were thus moved, or borne along, by the Spirit, they spoke infallibly, everything which they said being absolutely and positively reliable in every respect, and true from every standpoint.<\/p>\n
The Prophet Carried in the Visions of God<\/h3>\n
On the day of which the prophet was speaking, he declared:<\/p>\n
… the hand of Jehovah was upon me, and he brought me thither. 2 In the visions of God brought he me into the land of Israel, and set me down upon a very high mountain, whereon was as it were the frame of a city on the south.\u201d
\n(Ezekiel 40:1:1,2)<\/p><\/blockquote>\nFrequently the prophets spoke of the hand of Jehovah’s being upon them. By this expression they indicated that they were brought under the power and the influence of the Holy Spirit. Being thus inspired, they were carried from one place to another in the visions of God. The prophet, as we learned from the first chapter of Ezekiel, lived among the captives on the river Chebar, in Babylon. When the hand of the Lord came upon him, in the visions of God he was transported from his natural surroundings and was carried to the land of Israel. In dreams very frequently we go to some distant place and in the same dreams see surroundings with which possibly we have been familiar all of our lives. The dreams which people have are little understood by the psychologists, but we class them among natural phenomena. In doing this, we are correct. In Biblical times God did reveal Himself to different people and to various ones of His servants, the prophets, by dreams. Such dreams were inspired by \u2014 in the fullest manner possible \u2014 the Spirit of God. There were no contradictions. They were accurate and true to facts and, whenever they constituted a prediction, were fulfilled literally as seen. For instance, Pharaoh had a dream and in it God made revelations to him. The same thing was true of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. When he forgot the dream, or it fled from him, Daniel by the Spirit of God was enabled to reproduce it and to interpret it (see Daniel, chapter 2).<\/p>\n
But there seems to be a difference between the biblical dreams inspired by the Spirit of God and the visions which were likewise granted to certain servants of the Lord by the Holy Spirit. Just what the distinction was, I have never been able to determine. In these visions, however, one would gather from that facts that probably the subject matter presented was made more graphic and vivid, and incidentally more permanent, than those which were given by inspired dreams. In the visions of God Ezekiel was transported to the land of Israel and saw a high mountain upon which a city was located. Thus in this vision the prophet was in full possession of all his intellectual faculties, and there appeared before him a high mountain upon which he was placed. On the southern portion of it was \u201cas it were the frame of a city.\u201d That which was presented was as real to him as if he were actually in his wakeful hours present, standing upon the material mountains and viewing the literal city. But when this vision was granted him, he still remained bodily at his home on the Chebar River in Babylon.<\/p>\n
In contrast with being transported in the visions of God, as on this occasion, I may call attention to the fact that the prophet informs us regarding his having been taken up literally by the Spirit and of his having been transported from his place on the Chebar to another locality called Tel-abib that likewise was on or near the river Chebar. When he was thus dealt with by the Spirit of God, the prophet became embittered, as he confesses in the statement found in chapter 3:12-15. In the same category of events is to be reckoned the experience which Philip the Evangelist had after he had preached to the Ethiopian eunuch. Luke declares: \u201cAnd he [the enunch] commanded the chariot to stand still: and they both went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip; and the eunuch saw him no more, for he went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached the gospel to all the cities, till he came to Caesarea\u201d (Acts 8:38-40). Thus the Evangelist was taken up bodily by the Spirit of God and was transported to a place about fifty miles away. Realizing that God was dealing with him, and that the Lord had transported him to that place, he immediately began preaching the Word of the Lord and continued to do so as he went northward to Caesarea, the Roman capital of Palestine at that time.<\/p>\n
The Land of Israel<\/h3>\n
The prophet declared that the Spirit of God transported him from Babylon to the land of Israel. What is meant by this designation? There is but one answer: the country which God gave to the twelve tribes of Israel when He brought them out of Egyptian bondage and settled them in Canaan. Two and a half tribes of the twelve settled down on the east side of the Jordan Valley, whereas the other nine and a half located west of the Jordan rift. Thus all of the land south of Lebanon, or Syria as it was in Biblical times called, lying between the Arabian Desert on the east and Mediterranean on the west, and extending south to Kadesh-Barnea, was known in Biblical times as the land of Israel.<\/p>\n
This country was given by the Lord himself to the twelve tribes that decended from Jacob, whose name was changed to that of Israel. These people were sometimes called Hebrews and at others, children of Israel, or Israelites. After the disruption of the kingdom upon the death of Solomon when the ten northern tribes revolted, the term, kingdom of Israel, was applied to the government set up in the north, whereas Judah was the name given to the two tribes \u2014 remaining faithful to the house of David \u2014 and that had their government in Jerusalem. Notwithstanding the fact that there were two rival governments reigning over the twelve tribes of Israel, the terms, Israel and Judah, were used interchangeably \u2014 toward the end of the monarchy. After Zerubbabel led all the captives back who wished to return to the land of Israel, the terms Judah and Israel were always used interchangeably. This is seen by a survey of the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which give the account of the time of the restoration from Babylonian captivity. In the New Testament period the terms, Judah and Israel, are used interchangeably as may be seen from a cursory review of a number of passages in the New Testament.<\/p>\n
As stated above, all the land below the Lebanese border \u2014 as far south as Kadesh-Barnea which lay between the Mediterranean Sea on the west and the Arabian Desert on the east \u2014 has been known through Biblical and post-Biblical times as Palestine. When, however, the British divided the land, separating the territory east of the Jordan from that west of it, and gave the former the name of Trans-Jordan, the name \u201cPalestine\u201d has been applied to the territory lying west of the Jordan and extending to the Mediterranean Sea. This parting of the land occurred in 1927. In 1937 and again in 1939 I visited the land of Palestine. People therefore understood that I went to that portion of the land west of the Jordan River.<\/p>\n
Recently I went to the State of Israel, arriving at Lydda on December 20, 1949. I spent seventy days in the land. I did not, technically and correctly speaking, visit Palestine. I simply went to the State of Israel. What, then, is Israel? It is that part of Palestine west of the Jordan which has been occupied by the Israeli government, which was set up on May 14, 1948 \u2014 when the British withdrew from Palestine, giving up the Mandate. In my seventy days in Israel I made Jerusalem my headquarters. Mail directed to me in Jerusalem, Palestine, did not reach me, but that which was sent to Jerusalem, Israel, did reach me. The Jewish-Arabic War has never been settled. Only an armistice has been imposed upon the two contending governments by the United Nations. The lines of battle are drawn, with no-man’s land between. This line of battle divides the city of Jerusalem, as well as the entire land. The old city of Jerusalem within the walls and part of it north of it are behind the Arab lines, whereas the modern city and the western part lies west of the battlefront and is in the hands of the Israeli government. But let us remember that God promised to the twelve tribes of Israel, not only that which was historically known as Palestine, but also He by oath gave to Abraham and his descendants all the land lying between the River of Egypt and the Euphrates. This territory is by divine grant the property of the Hebrew people \u2014 notwithstanding the babel of tongues today denying their right to that land. In the Lord’s own good time, however, He will give all this territory to His chosen beloved people who, at the time that it is turned over to them, will become the channel of world blessing. May that day hastily come!<\/p>\n
A Very High Mountain<\/h3>\n
The prophet was transported to the land of Israel and was set down on \u201ca very high mountain.\u201d What mountain was this? From this chapter we do not learn. But when we read the 48th chapter, we learn what it is. When this prophecy is fulfilled \u2014 at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints to reign upon the earth for a thousand years \u2014 the entire land of Palestine will be leveled down and will be like an extended valley, the Garden of Jehovah (Numbers 24:6-8). The land will be at that time divided into twelve equal parts. Seven of these will lie north of the mountain which is called \u201cthe holy oblation,\u201d whereas five of them will be south of it. Thus the mountain will be located in a position a little south of the exact center of the land.<\/p>\n
The measurements of this mountain are given in terms of reeds, but according to the best estimates, five hundred reeds make one English mile. According to the details given in chapter 47 this mountain will be fifty miles from north to south and fifty miles from east to west. It will be divided into three principal sections. The dividing lines will run from east to west. The first of these will be located twenty miles south of the northern border of the mountain. Thus from east to west this tract of land will be fifty miles; but from the north to south it will be only twenty miles deep.<\/p>\n
In the center of this northern section there will be one square mile upon which the millennial Temple, God’s house of prayer for all the nations, will be located. This will be the central point of attraction for the people of earth during the reign of our Lord. There can be no doubt concerning the fact that this structure will be the finest one which ever will be erected upon this globe. To this the nations of the world will flow constantly in order that they may go up and worship Jehovah of hosts, the Great King, who is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n
This northern section will be allotted to the priests who will devote all of their time to the worship, the service, and the ministry of God.<\/p>\n
The second dividing line will run parallel to the first one, but twenty miles farther south. Thus the second section will be fifty miles from the east to west and twenty miles from north to south. This special part of the land will be for the Levites who will assist the priests in their daily ministrations.<\/p>\n
The southern section of this mountain will be only ten miles deep from north to south but will likewise be fifty miles in breadth \u2014 from east to west. This territory will be assigned to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.<\/p>\n
Let me say, quoting from Psalm 48, that this mountain height will be the beauty spot, \u201cthe joy of the whole earth.\u201d There will be nothing on the face of the globe that will be comparable to it. It is true that the curse will be lifted from the entire earth \u2014 with the exception of Babylon and Edom, upon which lands the curse will continue through the Millennium. The glory of God will encircle the earth as the waters cover the sea. Nevertheless, this mountain of Jehovah will surpass all other portions of the globe in exquisite beauty.<\/p>\n
The City of Jerusalem<\/h3>\n
According to Ezekiel’s dimensions the city of Jerusalem which will be located in the southern portion of this mountain height will be nine miles by nine miles. It will be surrounded by a suburb a half a mile in width. Thus the city, with its suburbs, will be ten miles in length and in breadth. It will located in the central part of this southern section.<\/p>\n
Psalm 48 gives us a very clear description of this city. Isaiah (54:11-13) speaks of the city in terms of the precious stones that will be used in its construction. From such passages as Isaiah 2:1-4 and Micah 4:1-8 we see that the peoples of the world during the glorious reign of our Lord will go up from their places to this mountain of Jehovah to the house of the God of Jacob and will listen to Him as He instructs them in the law and in the Word of God \u2014 the law by which the nations of the world will be governed and the Word of the Lord, the gospel message of the truth of redemption through the Lord Jesus Christ and His precious blood.<\/p>\n
In Psalms 15 and 24 the question is asked as to who will be permitted to go up into this mountain of Jehovah’s house. Those questions are answered. These two psalms constitute a revelation concerning the situation of the importance of the city of Jerusalem in the great Millennial Era.<\/p>\n
A Man<\/h3>\n
\u201cAnd he brought me thither; and, behold, there was a man, whose appearance was like the appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate\u201d (40:3). Since the prophet was in the visions of God when he was brought to Jerusalem, it is quite clear that this man appeared to him in the vision. Since the man was in the vision it is certain that he was not a literal man. He therefore must have been an angel or one who represented an angel. This is the one who conducted him, in the visions of God, throughout this great Temple, that will be built by the Lord Jesus Christ when He returns to earth.<\/p>\n
The Divine Charge to the Prophet<\/h3>\n
This man of the vision gave a charge to Ezekiel saying: \u201cSon of man, behold with thine eyes, and hear with thine ears, and set thy heart upon all that I shall show thee; for, to the intent that I may show them unto thee, art thou brought hither: declare all that thou seest to the house of Israel\u201d (vs. 4). According to this verse we see that the prophet was charged to give close attention to the things that were presented to him in order that he in turn might convey the proper idea to those to whom it was his privilege to minister. Though the visions were presented to him, it was in order that he might take them in by giving close attention and then pass on the information, thus supernaturally imparted, to those to whom he ministered. God wants His truth given to the people. He today calls people into the ministry. Anyone who is a God-called person should avail himself of every opportunity of studying the blessed, holy Word of God to know what it teaches \u2014 apart from all theories and speculation \u2014 in order that he might give it forth to the people. Nothing avails after all except the will of God.<\/p>\n
Everyone thus called of God to minister in holy things should have the ideal which was ever before Ezra the Scribe. Concerning him the inspired writer declared: \u201cFor Ezra had set his heart to seek the law of Jehovah, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and ordinances\u201d (Ezra 7:10). May such a high ideal inspire everyone who thus deals with the Word of God.<\/p>\n
\nThe Millennial Temple<\/h1>\n
In last month’s study we learned something about the changes that will take place in the land of Israel yet in the future. The reason for this position is that the predictions concerning such mighty changes as are recorded in the Scriptures have never been fulfilled. Since the Word of God is to be taken literally if at all possible, and since these mighty changes have never taken place, we are to conclude that they will yet, in due course of time, be literally fulfilled exactly as foretold.<\/p>\n
We saw that the land of Israel will be divided into twelve equal parts, seven of these being north of the high mountain, which is termed \u201cthe oblation,\u201d and five of them south of it. This oblation, or mountain, is described \u2014 in terms of English measurements \u2014 as being fifty miles from north to south and fifty from east to west. Its summit will be divided into three sections, the dividing lines running from east to west. Thus the northern section will be a plot of land fifty miles from east to west and twenty miles from north to south. In the center of this plot, covering one square mile, will be the great Temple of Jehovah. The second section of this high mountain plateau will be of the same dimensions as the northern one, but will lie immediately south of it. There will remain only the southern section, which will be fifty miles from east to west and ten miles from north to south. The city of Jerusalem with its suburbs will be located in the center of this southernmost part. It will cover one hundred square miles.<\/p>\n
By a careful study of the Book of Hebrews we learn that the Tabernacle was a replica, miniature model, of eternal realities, the Temple of God which is in heaven and of which we hear various prophets and psalmists speaking \u2014 as well as John, in the Book of Revelation.<\/p>\n
The holy place in the Tabernacle, as well as the most holy place, typified the two sections of this eternal Sanctuary in the heavens of the heavens. The most holy place typified the place where God is, and which is called in our modern phraseology, the very presence of God. Connected with the most holy place was the true tabernacle which the Lord pitched, and not man (Hebrews 8:2.) The holy place of this eternal temple is the place where angels worship and where the saved, the redeemed from the earth, congregate and likewise worship. As to whether or not they remain all the time in this first tabernacle is a question that is not settled in the Scriptures.<\/p>\n
Moses was given a vision of the eternal temple in heaven when he was on Mt. Sinai with God. He was warned to build the Tabernacle exactly as was shown him in the Mount, because it was to be a duplicate or replica of those eternal verities and realities in the heavens. The instructions concerning the building of this Tabernacle and of its furniture are found in Exodus, chapters 25-40.<\/p>\n
The Tabernacle, when it was set up, was filled with the glory of the Lord and the symbol of His presence, the Shekinah of glory, which rested upon the mercy seat. Israel, in the person of the regular priest, went into this holy place to worship \u2014 before the second veil. Only on the Day of Atonement did the high priest pass through the first tabernacle as he went into the most holy place and there made the atonement for Israel. Thus the earthly Tabernacle was the center of all the worship which was authorized by the Lord for Israel during the giving of the law at Mount Sinai until King Solomon erected the Temple, which became the permanent structure in which God resided in the person of the Shekinah of glory.<\/p>\n
Various Temples<\/h3>\n
King David, the founder of the dynasty which bears his name, was a man of war, who subdued his rebellious subjects and established a regime of peace and prosperity. He likewise conquered his foes that dwelt round about the land of Israel. Before his death he purposed to build a house, a temple, to the Lord. But since he was a man of blood, the Lord would not permit his erecting this sacred, holy structure. Nevertheless, he gathered and collected various materials for the erection of this national shrine. All of this he bequeathed to his son Solomon, who came to the throne upon David’s death, and who actually built the Temple. He began it in the fourth year of his reign and completed it in seven. Details concerning the building of this sacred shrine and of its dedication are found in I Kings, chapters 6-8, and the parallel passages in the Book of II Chronicles. In round numbers, it stood for four hundred years and was finally destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, when he overran the little state of Judah, destroyed all the elements of Jewish civilization, and took the flower of the people into Babylonian captivity, where they remained for seventy years \u2014 just as the prophet Jeremiah had foretold.<\/p>\n
Obviously it is clear that the temple which Ezekiel saw was not Solomon’s, for the prophet had his vision after the destruction of Solomon’s Temple.<\/p>\n
According to promise, when the seventy years of Babylonian captivity had run their course, God raised up Zerubbabel, a prince of the house of David, who led back the exiles desiring to return to the land of their fathers. Under Zerubbabel and Joshua the high priest, and a little later under Ezra the Scribe, and still later under Nehemiah, practically fifty thousand exiles returned to the land to start life anew under the most unfavorable circumstances. In the second year of their return an earnest attempt was made to begin the reconstruction of the Temple, but on account of interference from the foreign element of the population that had been imported into the land by the Assyrian king, this work was stopped and was not resumed until fifteen years later, when the old prophet Haggai and the young prophet Zechariah, moved by the Spirit of God, stirred up a spirit of loyalty and devotion to God. Then Zerubbabel and Joshua led the nation in the rebuilding of the Temple, which Temple was very much smaller than was that of Solomon. It was so very far inferior to the former Temple that those Jews who had seen the Temple of Solomon wept because of the insignificance of that which was being built by the returned exiles. This structure was called \u201cthe second temple.\u201d There is no evidence that the Shekinah of glory, that departed from Solomon’s Temple, ever returned to it. In fact, Jewish tradition and legend affirm that it never did return. This Temple remained intact from the time of its erection to the days of Herod the Great who tore it down, piecemeal, and erected it upon a much more magnificent scale. This is the structure that was standing during our Lord’s ministry. Finally, in A.D. 70, it was destroyed when Titus took Jerusalem, destroyed the Jewish Commonwealth and sent the survivors into captivity.<\/p>\n
It is quite evident that the temple which Ezekiel described so very minutely could not be this one which Zerubbabel erected, and which Herod the Great enlarged and beautified.<\/p>\n
There is a class of interpreters and commentators who experience difficulty in attempting to interpret this temple described by Ezekiel in chapters 40-44 as being a literal structure. To them there arise many grave and insurmountable difficulties. For instance, there are those who call attention to the fact that this central mountain will be fifty miles from east to west; and east of this mountain, as well as west of it, there will be a portion of land that will belong to the prince of that day and time.<\/p>\n
To this group of commentators it is impossible for this mountain to be located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. Moreover, the terrain of this part of the country is mountainous, especially the central part. Jerusalem is over 2,700 feet in altitude, whereas the Plain of Sharon is a little above sea level. The Jordan Valley is 1,390 feet below sea level. To these expositors such facts render the literal interpretation of this prophecy as being untenable. But they forget that certain predictions foretell the change of the entire topography of the land of Israel during the great millennial reign of our Lord. For instance, Balaam, in his third prophecy (Num. 24:1-9), was granted a vision of the land of Israel under King Messiah. Thus he spoke of it as a level valley and as the garden of Jehovah with its pristine vegetation. Moreover, there are predictions that God will establish the mountain of Jehovah upon the hills and that it shall be exalted above all surrounding mountains. From this line of prophecy we see that there will be great topographical changes that will take place in the land of Israel. In view of these prophecies no one should have any difficulty, from the topographical standpoint, in interpreting Ezekiel’s prophecy as one of the literal city of Jerusalem and the temple.<\/p>\n
Another reason leads this same group of commentators to refuse the literal interpretation of this passage. They see that, in predictions concerning the future, the temple is spoken of as being in Zion; that is, in Jerusalem. But in Ezekiel’s prophecy the temple enclosure will be very large, covering one square mile. This will be in the northern section of this mountain of Jehovah. To be accurate, it will be exactly thirty miles north of the north wall of the city of Jerusalem, which will, as we have already seen, be in the southern section of this mountain. Since this temple, then, is not located within the walls of the city as it is here described, these commentators reject the literal interpretation of the same. They are therefore led to understand Ezekiel’s prophecy as symbolic.<\/p>\n
At first this objection seems to be quite formidable. But upon further investigation the discrepancy vanishes. While there is a city to be located in the southern section of this mountaintop, the entire mountain is called \u201cthe mountain of Jehovah.\u201d The whole area may be thought of as Jerusalem, since it will be holy and devoted entirely to the Lord. The whole thing will be called \u201cthe mountain of Jehovah,\u201d or \u201cthe hill of the Lord.\u201d The mountain of Jehovah’s house was, in historic times, within the walls of Jerusalem. Thus it becomes quite easy for us to think of the entire top of this mountain as being Jerusalem, or Mount Zion. From this viewpoint, then, the temple will be in this great future city of Jerusalem.<\/p>\n
Those thus rejecting the literal interpretation for the reasons discussed above, and for several others, conclude that this is a prophecy that must be understood symbolically. What therefore is symbolized, according to them, by this mountain or oblation and the temple described? Instantly they arrive at the conclusion that it can be none other than the spiritual kingdom of God, which came into existence on the first Pentecost after the resurrection of our Lord. This spiritual kingdom is known in the New Testament as the church of the Living God, or the kingdom of God.<\/p>\n
If we follow the golden rule of interpretation, [When the plain sense of Scripture makes common sense, seek no other sense; therefore take every word at its primary, ordinary, usual, literal meaning unless the facts of the immediate context, studied in the light of related passages and axiomatic and fundamental truths, indicate clearly otherwise.] which has proved to be practically an infallible guide in our interpretation of the Scriptures, we cannot adopt this symbolic meaning.<\/p>\n
One is never justified in departing from the literal meaning of a passage unless there is positive warrant in the context itself, or unless authority is shown from a parallel passage. In this case such negative evidence is lacking. We are therefore bound to reject the symbolic meaning that is attached to this prophecy.<\/p>\n
According to prophecy the Jews will rebuild their temple in the end of this age. Read Isaiah 66:1-6. Our Lord assumed that it will be standing during the Tribulation (Matthew 24:15 ff). Paul likewise assumed its existence at this future time (II Thessalonians 2:1-4). The Apostle John also spoke of it as standing in the middle of the Tribulation (Revelation 11:1-14).<\/p>\n
Can this be the temple which Ezekiel saw and described? No; for the temple which the Jews will build will be destroyed in the Tribulation (Psalm 74:1-11). But the temple foretold by Ezekiel is seen standing after the great topographical changes have been made that occur when our Lord returns at the close of the Tribulation.<\/p>\n
Zechariah, the prophet of the post-Exilic Period, foretold the great and glorious millennial temple which our Lord will build when He returns to earth. The occasion of his prediction, which throws light upon its message, was this: Certain men had returned from Babylon with gold and silver to be deposited as trophies or offerings in the Temple, Zerubbabel’s Temple. Zechariah took this silver and gold, made a crown, and set it upon the head of Joshua at which time he held a public ceremony. Joshua the high priest stood there in the garments of holiness with this crown or crowns upon his head. Then the prophet pointed to him and uttered this marvelous prediction:<\/p>\n
Thus speaketh Jehovah of hosts, saying, Behold, the man whose name is the Branch: and he shall grow up out of his place; and he shall build the temple of Jehovah; 13 even he shall build the temple of Jehovah; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne; and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.\u201d (Zechariah 6:12,13)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Though the prophet pointed to Joshua and called upon his audience to look and behold \u201cthe man whose name is the Branch\u201d \u2014 a purely messianic designation \u2014 it is clear that he did not mean that Joshua was the Messiah. A study of the various \u201cBranch\u201d passages shows that the Messiah is meant by such a designation. Moreover, Joshua was either in middle life or in old age and was high priest of the nation when this prediction was made. In uttering this prophecy, Zechariah declared that the man \u201cwhose name is the Branch … shall grow up out of his place.\u201d His coming is in the future, declared the prophet. Thus it was obvious to his auditors that the prediction pertained to the coming of the Branch, the Messiah, yet in the future. The prophecy, moreover, declared that the Messiah would be born in the place as indicated by another prophet, namely, in Bethlehem of Judea (Micah 5:2).<\/p>\n
The Messiah, when He returns in glory and power, will build the temple of Jehovah. He will build it, not with His literal hands, but with His creative power and activity. He will then \u201cbear the glory\u201d of it; that is, all praise, honor, and glory connected with its construction, or rather, its creation, will be attributed to Him. Moreover, He will sit and rule upon His throne \u2014 being both Priest and King, after the order of Melchizedek (Psalm 110). In view of this and other predictions concerning the erection by Jehovah of the future temple, it is quite evident that there will be a literal temple built, as Ezekiel affirms, on the summit of this great mountain of Jehovah. It will be the house of prayer for all the nations. To it all nations will go in a constant stream throughout the great Millennial Age, will worship Jehovah of hosts, and will listen to the Messiah, the God of Jacob, as He expounds the law of Jehovah that will govern the nations during the Millennium and the Word of the Lord, the gospel message of redemption.<\/p>\n
It is impossible to call attention to the description, plans, and specifications for this glorious house of Jehovah. In fact it is not necessary. Those however who wish to pursue a more minute study of the structure of this building should consult a good Bible encyclopedia.<\/p>\n
It is enough for us to note the fact that this shrine is the replica of the eternal Tabernacle in the heavens, the abode of the Almighty and the place of worship of His creatures.<\/p>\n
To attempt to see a typical significance for every part of either the Tabernacle in the wilderness or of the temple in Jerusalem is to go beyond the bounds of all reason and to read into the Word of God our own ideas. I shall, recognizing this principle, call attention only to an outstanding point that is brought out by the prophet.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 43:1-5 appears a prediction concerning Jehovah’s entering in at the east gate of the temple. He is spoken of as \u201cthe glory of the God of Israel\u201d and at the same time reference is made to His voice which \u201cwas like the sound of many waters.\u201d By His coming \u201cthe earth shined with his glory.\u201d Thus His glory will fill this house of Jehovah, the house of prayer for all nations. This prediction will be fulfilled when the Lord has returned to the earth and has conquered all His foes. He will perform the topographical and geographical changes that are foretold in the Scriptures and will build, that is, create, this house of Jehovah.<\/p>\n
Since He enters this great temple by the east gate, it shall be shut so that no one can go through it \u2014 simply because the Lord himself enters through it (Ezekiel 44:1-3).*<\/p>\n
Isaiah’s Vision of the Millennial Temple<\/h3>\n
In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and his train filled the temple. 2 Above him stood the seraphim: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. 3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. 4 And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for, mine eyes have seen the King Jehovah of hosts.\u201d (Isaiah 6:1-5)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
This temple is clearly one that is in existence when the entire earth is full of the glory of God. It will only be thus filled with His glory after the Lord Jesus Christ returns to earth and fills this most imposing and most important of all structures that ever graces this earth.<\/p>\n
From the facts that may be gathered from the contexts of all the passages referring to this temple in the future, it is clear that they all refer to the literal temple that will be built by our Lord, and that will stand during His reign of righteousness for one thousand years.<\/p>\n
\nFootnote:<\/h4>\n
* Some expositors of the Word, ignoring the facts of the context, have applied this passage to the Golden Gate in the present east wall of the city of Jerusalem, which was walled up by the Turks because of a legend or tradition concerning a conqueror’s entering the city through it. Such exegesis is unscientific for it ignores every principle of interpretation.<\/p>\n
\n<\/p>\n
The Prince and the Glorified Millennial Temple<\/h1>\n
Since it would be entirely too tedious and would involve much detail to present a verse-by-verse exposition of Ezekiel, chapters 40-48, I shall call attention only to the outstanding features of this portion of the Word. For those who are interested in a minute study of the plans and specifications, the ordinances and ceremonies of the millennial temple, I would suggest that they consult a reputable, sane, sound, and scholarly commentary on the Book of Ezekiel. In accordance, then, with this purpose, I shall in this study call attention only to the fact that Jehovah himself enters the temple through the east gate, that there is one who is called \u201cthe prince\u201d who will reign in Israel, that the glory of the Lord will fill this great edifice, that sacrifices will be renewed during that great era of righteousness, and that certain ones of Israel’s special feasts, or festivals \u2014 holy days \u2014 will be again observed.<\/p>\n
Jehovah’s Entering the Sanctuary through the East Gate<\/h3>\n
Then he brought me back by the way of the outer gate of the sanctuary, which looketh toward the east; and it was shut. 2 And Jehovah said unto me, This gate shall be shut; it shall not be opened, neither shall any man enter in by it; for Jehovah, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it; therefore it shall be shut. 3 As for the prince, he shall sit therein as prince to eat bread before Jehovah; he shall enter by way of the porch of the gate, and shall go out by the way of the same.\u201d
\n(Ezekiel 44:1-3)<\/p><\/blockquote>\nThose who have been following this exposition know that I have called attention to the fact that an angelic creature appeared to Ezekiel and escorted him in this vision throughout the temple and its sacred precincts, showing him what is yet to be a reality in the future. This one, according to 44:1, brought Ezekiel back \u201cby the way of the outer gate of the sanctuary, which looketh toward the east.\u201d When they arrived there it was shut. This fact was such a significant one that it demanded an explanation which is given in verse 2. \u201cThis gate shall be shut; it shall not be opened, neither shall any man enter in by it; for Jehovah, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it; therefore it shall be shut.\u201d<\/p>\n
When we consider the memorial name of God, Jehovah, we must remember that it has a fourfold signification: In some contexts it indicates the Holy Trinity; in others, it refers to God the Father; in still others, it unquestionably points to the Lord Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity; and in a few passages the context shows that it signifies the Holy Spirit. The question in connection with our passage is, What is its meaning here? To the one who understands the prophetic word, the answer suggested by all the facts would indicate that this one who is thus designated Jehovah is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ who entered the world by miraculous conception and virgin birth, and who laid down His life for the redemption of the human family \u2014 for all who will avail themselves of His redeeming grace, love, and power by accepting Him personally as their Saviour. The language in this passage is such that it immediately suggests that Jehovah enters in through this gate the same as any other individual might pass through a gate or door. We who believe that Jesus of Nazareth was and is the God-man, who thus miraculously entered the world, naturally think of Him, of His return in glory, and of His building the millennial temple \u2014 as Zechariah informed us \u2014 and that this passage refers to His entering it in an official capacity. When He thus enters in this manner, the ground and the floor are made holy; therefore no human being will ever be allowed to enter that sacred structure through that door.<\/p>\n
The Prince<\/h3>\n
In 45:7 we read of \u201cthe prince\u201d whose shall be the land on the four sides of \u201cthe holy oblation,\u201d that is, the mountain of Jehovah in Palestine during the Millennium. As we shall learn in the next installment of this series, this mountain of Jehovah will be fifty miles in length and fifty miles in breadth. All the territory on this high mountain will be occupied by different groups. But He who is called \u201cthe prince\u201d shall own land at the base of this mountain on all four sides. Again, we read of this prince in Ezekiel 46:16-18. In this passage we see that he will have sons. The instructions are of such a specific nature that one cannot avoid the conclusion that this prince is some man who will occupy a high position in the government under King Messiah, who will have sons and daughters to whom he will allot a certain inheritance, and who will have servants. Obviously this prince is one and the same person. We are to suppose that, since he is a prince, he will have an official position in the government. But there is no clue, so far as I am able to find, as to his identity.<\/p>\n
Some students of the Word have identified him with the prince of whom we read in the following passages:<\/p>\n
Ezekiel 34:23,24<\/h4>\n
And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. 24 And I, Jehovah, will be their God, and my servant David prince among them; I, Jehovah, have spoken it.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Ezekiel 37:24,25<\/h4>\n
And my servant David shall be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in mine ordinances and observe my statutes, and do them. 25 And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers dwelt: and they shall dwell therein, they, and their children, and their children’s children, for ever; and David my servant shall be their prince for ever.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Can it be that the prince mentioned in these two passages is the same one to whom reference is made in the two other passages just studied? Let us look more closely at the details.<\/p>\n
In Ezekiel 34:11-16 we have this prediction:<\/h4>\n
For thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered abroad, so will I seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 13 And I will bring them out from the peoples, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them into their own land; and I will feed them upon the mountains of Israel, by the watercourses, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them with good pasture; and upon the mountains of the height of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie down in a good fold; and on fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. 15 I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord Jehovah. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and will bring back that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but the fat and the strong I will destroy; I will feed them in justice.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
From this quotation it is evident that Jehovah himself \u2014 and not some angelic being or some man \u2014 becomes the Shepherd of Israel who regathers His scattered flock into the land of their fathers. The language of Ezekiel, chapter 34, is of such a specific nature that the old rabbis could not avoid the conclusion that this is a prophecy concerning Jehovah’s assuming the form of the shepherds of Israel, who were men, and performing in a personal manner the duties and functions of these shepherds. Thus they saw in this passage a prediction of the incarnation of Jehovah for the purpose of becoming the Shepherd of Israel. But to them such an idea was an impossibility. They therefore had great difficulty in understanding Ezekiel, chapter 34.<\/p>\n
But to us who understand the prophetic word, this passage is quite clear. It assumes the miraculous conception and virgin birth of the Messiah, which is foretold in other passages, in order that He might thus become the Shepherd to gather the nation of Israel, scattered among the peoples of earth, into their own land eventually.<\/p>\n
With this teaching in the preceding part of the chapter, verses 23 and 24 immediately fall in line and are to be understood as a reference to Jehovah who by incarnation becomes the Shepherd of Israel. Thus in 34:23 Jehovah the Father promises to \u201cset up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them.\u201d This one is none other than His servant David. From what has preceded in this chapter, it is clear that this Shepherd, even David, is none other than Jehovah who assumes the human form and who will yet shepherd Israel. Thus there can be no controversy concerning the fact that the Shepherd of verse 23, \u201ceven David,\u201d is none other than Jehovah who becomes the Shepherd to regather the scattered nation. According to verse 24 God again asserts that He will be \u201ctheir God,\u201d the God of Israel, and that His \u201cservant David\u201d shall be \u201cprince among them.\u201d This \u201cservant of Jehovah\u201d who is called David here is likewise to be the \u201cprince\u201d and the \u201cshepherd.\u201d<\/p>\n
Does the word \u201cDavid\u201d here refer to King David, the head of the dynasty which bore his name, which reigned in Jerusalem during the Monarchial Period? My answer is a most emphatic no! David was simply a human being. This Shepherd is God, who assumes the form of man. Yet He is called David. But we who are acquainted with the language of Scripture should not be surprised at such a usage, when we remember such passages as I Kings 12:16. From the context of this verse it is clear that Rehoboam, the son and successor of Solomon, is here called David. He literally was David’s grandson, yet he is called by the name of his illustrious grandparent. Why was this? Because he was a descendant of the great king and was seated upon the throne of David. From this we can see that a descendant of David could be and was called by the name of the illustrious king who was the founder of the dynasty. Since \u201cthe shepherd,\u201d \u201cthe prince,\u201d \u201cmy servant David,\u201d of Ezekiel 34:23,24 is clearly Jehovah the Son in human form, and since He is called David, it is obvious that the word David is used in the secondary sense as seen in I Kings 12:16.<\/p>\n
In the light of all these facts, then, we conclude that the \u201cprince,\u201d even \u201cmy servant David,\u201d of Ezekiel, chapters 34 and 37, is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ, the Messiah and King of Israel, and the Saviour of the world. But the prince of whom we read in Ezekiel 45:7 and 46:16-18 is another prince, who of course will occupy a subordinate position in relation to King Messiah. He will be some man, a Jewish prince, who will be living at the time of our Lord’s return. Since no definite clues are given as to his identity, we shall have to be satisfied in our ignorance on this point and await the coming day when it will become clear to all.<\/p>\n
The Glory of the Lord<\/h3>\n
To all Bible students it is quite evident that both the Tabernacle and the Temple were patterns of the spiritual temple of God in the heavens of the heavens. In other words, the Tabernacle and the Temple were simply replicas, or models, of the temple of God in heaven, of which we read in such passages as Psalm 29 and Revelation 11:19. Each of these structures consisted of a holy place and of a most holy place. Of course all Bible students know that the Tabernacle was the temporary model of the eternal heavenly realities and was superseded by the Temple which Solomon constructed in Jerusalem as the permanent model of the same.<\/p>\n
Since God dwells in the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary, it was natural that this fact should be represented in the earthly model. Hence, when the Tabernacle was set up, as we learn in Exodus, chapter 40, the glory of the Lord filled the place (Exodus 40:34). Then this glory assumed the form of what is known as the Shekinah, which abode above the mercy seat, the covering of the ark of the covenant. When Solomon built the Temple, and it was dedicated by the proper ceremonies, the glory of the Lord also filled this earthly sanctuary \u2014 as we see in II Chronicles 7:2 and parallel passages. This glory again assumed the form of the Shekinah, the symbol of God’s presence, and abode above the mercy seat and dwelt there in the midst of Israel, the people of Jehovah.<\/p>\n
When, however, the nation had apostatized from God to such an extent that He could no longer abide in the midst of a sinful and gainsaying people, this Shekinah of glory arose from its place above the mercy seat, reluctantly \u2014 as it were \u2014 arose and hovered over the threshold of the sacred structure, then departed to the eastern gate, and finally left the sacred enclosure for the Mount of Olives \u2014 on the east of Jerusalem. At last it departed, vanishing into oblivion. This was foreshadowed by the prophet, (chapter 9). Ezekiel, being given the vision of the Jerusalem of the Millennial Age and the restoration of the temple, naturally spoke of the glory of God and of its filling the house of Jehovah (44:4). When the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, enters that sacred structure officially, as we have already seen He will do, then that house of prayer for all the nations will be filled with the glory of God as foretold by Ezekiel.<\/p>\n
Renewal of the Animal Sacrifices<\/h3>\n
In Eden animal sacrifices were first inaugurated. During the Patriarchal Age they were observed by the command and the instruction of God. When He gave the law to Israel through Moses, He incorporated these animal sacrifices in His revelation and in the requirements for Israel. They were all typical of the one supreme sacrifice of the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.<\/p>\n
When our Lord came and offered Himself as the all-sufficient atonement for mankind, the animal sacrifices, which were simply typical, were abolished:<\/p>\n
And you, being dead through your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, you, I say<\/em>, did he make alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses; 14 having blotted out the bond written in ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us: and he hath taken it out of the way, nailing it to the cross …\u201d (Colossians 2:13,14)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Thus those animal sacrifices served their purpose in typifying the all-sufficient atonement of our Lord. When He made His sacrifice, there was therefore no further need \u2014 so far as the present Christian Age is concerned \u2014 for any further sacrifices.<\/p>\n
But according to Ezekiel’s prophecy, when this temple of Jehovah is built in Jerusalem and becomes a house of prayer for all the nations, there will be offerings and sacrifices made daily. The question immediately arises, For what purpose will they serve? At first it may seem strange to us that they should again be brought into service \u2014 especially since they have been discontinued for two thousand years.<\/p>\n
In approaching this problem, let us remember this one fact: That when the sacrifices were discontinued, our Lord instituted what is called the Supper, which is a memorial observance to celebrate His laying down His life for us and shedding His blood for the remission of our sins. Believers are urged to observe this constantly \u201ctill he come.\u201d By observing this ceremony, we are reminded of the fact that our Lord purchased redemption for us. It is most essential that we remember that fact and keep His atonement ever before our eyes \u2014 for we are too prone to forget.<\/p>\n
When our Lord returns in glory, lifts the curse, and establishes a reign of righteousness and peace upon the earth, ideal conditions will exist. People will not know from experience the ravages and wreckage that have been caused by sin. They naturally will take for granted that such an ideal world is their rightful inheritance. It will be rather hard for them to recognize the necessity of Calvary, of the Lamb of God, and of the sacrifice which He made for them. By the Lord’s re-inaugurating those bloody, animal sacrifices, there will be constantly kept before the people of the world, who will go up to Jerusalem from year to year to worship Jehovah, the thought that their redemption was very costly and precious. I can therefore see why it is that the Lord will re-inaugurate those sacrifices to keep ever before the people of that era the price of their redemption.<\/p>\n
The Various Festivals<\/h3>\n
In Ezekiel’s foretelling the reconstruction of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem and the worship and service that will be rendered in that house of prayer for all of the nations, it was natural that he should speak of certain festivals. Thus he tells us that the new moon will be observed, that is, the first day of every month will have a service and ceremony that will give it special significance, bringing before the peoples of earth the great fundamental truths of God’s being the beginning or source of all things. The people will need to realize that it is in God that they live, and move, and have their continual being.<\/p>\n
The weekly sabbath likewise will be strictly observed. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth \u2014 perfect. But sin marred this marvelous handiwork of the Lord. When this catastrophe struck the earth, in six days God repaired the damage done and completed His task of reconstruction on the seventh day. Then He rested on that day. He therefore gave the command to primitive man that he should work six days and rest on the sabbath. This sabbath regulation was incorporated into the Mosaic legal system. In fact, the sabbatic system was worked out in its various ramifications in the legislation of Moses. In the future, when Israel is thus restored, and our Lord is on the throne, the sabbath will be observed. That is seen not only in Ezekiel’s prophecy, but in Isaiah, chapter 66:22-24.<\/p>\n
The passover supper will again be observed. On the last night of our Lord’s earthly pilgrimage before He was arrested, He observed the passover supper as we see in the records of the Four Gospels. Luke, however, is very explicit in giving us the events that occurred on that occasion. In Luke 22:14-18 we have a record of His observing with His disciples the passover supper. When He did that, He said to them that He would never more partake of passover until He should do it anew in the kingdom of God \u2014 in the time when the kingdom of God is established on the earth, and the will of God is done on earth as it is done in heaven. Then in Luke 22:19,20, we find a record of the institution of the Lord’s Supper after the passover was observed. From this scripture therefore we learn that the passover will be observed in the great Millennial Age.<\/p>\n
Ezekiel likewise informs us that the passover will be observed in this future time. Doubtless this feast will be observed in order to emphasize the necessity of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in order to impress upon the people born in the Millennium the tremendous cost of their redemption. People will have to be saved in the same way during the Millennium as now \u2014 by the grace of God through faith.<\/p>\n
From Zechariah 14:16 we learn that the feast of tabernacles, the occasion of the ingatherings and great joy in Israel, will likewise be observed. Not only will it be kept by Israel as a people, but also by the nations of the world. For we are told by Zechariah that, if there should be any nation that refuses to go up to Jerusalem to worship Jehovah of hosts, the great King, God, will withhold the rain from that country and thus deprive it of the physical blessing upon which the nation will have to depend. Thus we see that certain feasts, or festivals, will be observed during the Millennium.<\/p>\n
But nothing is said concerning the observance or ritualism of the Day of Atonement. There are various speculations that have been put forth, explaining why nothing is said about it. We know from the 16th chapter of Leviticus that the ritualism of the Day of Atonement was primarily to set forth the time when Israel will accept the full atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ, her Redeemer and Messiah. Since Israel will have at this time \u2014 the time here foreseen in the prophecy \u2014 repudiated the national sin and accepted unqualifiedly the atonement of the Messiah, there will be no necessity for setting that truth before the nations. This may be the true explanation why the ritualism of Yom Kippur will not be observed then. But there may be other fundamental reasons of which we have no knowledge, and concerning which we cannot afford to speculate.<\/p>\n
According to the prophetic word, there are great and marvelous times and seasons awaiting the world. The troubles of the present time will never cease until King Messiah is invited back by repentant Israel. When she acknowledges the guilt of her national sin, repudiates it, and pleads with Him to return, He will do so and stop all wars. Never again, then, shall nation lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. But peace and joy will reign supremely throughout the earth for one thousand years, during which our Lord will reign in righteousness and in justice. May that day speedily come, is our earnest, sincere prayer!<\/p>\n
Lamb of God! thou soon in glory
\nWilt to this sad earth return;
\nAll thy foes shall quake before thee,
\nAll that now despise thee mourn:
\nThen thy saints too shall attend thee,
\nWith thee in thy kingdom reign;
\nThine the praise, and thine the glory,
\nLamb of God, for sinners slain!\u201d
\nLaudes Domini.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
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The Land of Israel in the Millennium<\/h1>\n
In out study of the Book of Ezekiel we have come to the last installment, which consists of chapters 47 and 48. In this block of Scripture we shall learn many details concerning the land of Israel that is west of the Jordan \u2014 between the Jordan and the Mediterranean Sea. This territory of course does not include all the land of Israel as it will be in the Millennium. The correctness of this position becomes immediately apparent when we remember that God promised Abraham and his seed all the land between the river of Egypt and the great river, the Euphrates. Israel has never possessed all this territory. It is true that during the great and glorious days of Solomon the northeastern boundary of the land was pushed as far as the Euphrates. But it involved only a comparatively small tract of country. By no stretch of the imagination, however, can Israelis short-time possession of this little strip of land from the borders of Egypt to the Euphrates be considered as the fulfillment of the prediction and promise made by the Lord to Abraham. But in the closing chapters of Ezekiel’s vision only that portion of the land of Israel which is west of the Jordan and extending to the Mediterranean is in view.<\/p>\n
The River Flowing Forth from the Temple<\/h3>\n
In 47:1-5 we have a description of the river which will flow forth from the eastern threshold of the house (the millennial temple), and which will flow eastward. A thousand cubits east of the outer gate of the temple the prophet passed through the water, which was ankle deep. A thousand cubits from this position eastward the waters were knee-deep. At a point a thousand cubits farther east the waters reached the loins of a man. One thousand cubits farther on the water was so very deep that one could not pass through it.<\/p>\n
On both banks of this stream there were very many trees (vs. 7). As verse 12 is so very explicit concerning these trees, let us read it:<\/p>\n
And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow every tree for good, whose leaf shall not wither, neither shall the fruit thereof fail: it shall bring forth new fruit every month, because the waters thereof issue out of the sanctuary; and the fruit thereof shall be for food, and the leaf thereof for healing.\u201d (Ezekiel 47:12)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Each tree brings forth new fruit every month of the year, which is for food for the people. The leaf of the trees is for the healing, or rather, the health, of the inhabitants of the land. While the word literally means healing<\/em>, we must understand that it means health<\/em> because when this time arrives the curse will be lifted from the earth. Then there will be no sickness. The leaves of these trees therefore will be simply for the continued health of the people of the land.<\/p>\n
The waters of this river, which flows from the threshold, eventually reach the Dead Sea and heal, or purify, its waters (vs. 8). At the present time no life is possible in the Dead Sea or in the lower part of the Jordan before it enters into the sea.<\/p>\n
There will be fish in abundance in these waters. This prediction is found in verses 9 and 10. The place where the fishermen will be is \u201cfrom En-gedi even unto Eneglaim.\u201d En-gedi is on the west shores of the Dead Sea about midway its length from north to south. From this point unto Eneglaim there will be active fishing. There will also be a place for the spreading of nets. In these waters the fish will be \u201cas the fish of the great sea, exceeding many.\u201d<\/p>\n
As a person studies this prophecy, he naturally thinks of the proposed Lowdermilk plan for irrigation and power in the land of Israel. According to Dr. Walter C. Lowdermilk’s proposal the waters of the Sea of Galilee would be run in canals on either side of the Jordan River so as to water all the land of that valley. Should the millions of gallons of water in this way be utilized for irrigation purposes and also for hydro-electric power down through the valley, the water reaching the Dead Sea by the Jordan would be diminished greatly, being only that which flows into it from the east side out of the springs at the base of the mountains of Gilead and what ever surface water flows into it from the west side. It is therefore proposed in this scheme that a canal be digged from Haifa across the Plain of Esdraelon to the Jordan River. Through this artificial means waters from the Mediterranean Sea would flow and, entering the Jordan, would reach the Dead Sea. Only that amount of water necessary to keep the Dead Sea at its present level would be allowed to flow into it. According to this scheme there are to be built great dams in the canyons of the mountains of Southern Judaea. Artesian wells are also to be sunk in the Negev (south part of the land of Israel). From these two sources there will be plenty of water for irrigation purposes and for consumption by a large civilian population. This scheme is indeed most fascinating and feasible.<\/p>\n
But when anyone thinks of it and the results that will follow and compares them with what Ezekiel the prophet is talking about, he sees that the prophetic outlook is as high above the proposal of Dr. Lowdermilk as the heavens are higher than the earth.<\/p>\n
This river of water with its healing properties, that will flow forth from the threshold of the millennial temple, with its trees on either side, reminds one of the river of life that is mentioned in the twenty-second chapter of the Book of Revelation. By turning to this passage, one sees that this river, on the banks of which will be the tree of life with its leaves for the health of the people, that will live on the earth of that time, will be of special value to all, in that it is called \u201cthe river of the water of life.\u201d There is therefore a similarity between these two rivers, but they are not identical. As we have already learned, the river of which Ezekiel is speaking is the one that will flow forth from the temple down to the Dead Sea during the glorious reign of our Lord upon the earth; but that which is described by John in the Book of Revelation is a river that will flow from the throne of God through the street mentioned in this prediction and will meander over the earth of that future era.<\/p>\n
According to the prophecy of Revelation 20:11, at the conclusion of the Millennial Age the entire material universe will pass out of existence. This vanishing of the present material order occurs at the time of the judgment of the great white throne (Revelation 20:11-15). After that epochal event God creates the eternal order, which will consist of the eternal heavens, the eternal earth, and the eternal Jerusalem that comes down out of the heavens of that time and rests upon the new eternal earth. The throne of God will be in that city \u2014 the one four-square. From that will flow forth this marvelous river of the water of life. This river, with the tree of life whose leaf is for the health of the nations, will be for the new race of people that will be created, and that will live on that eternal earth. But we who are saved from the present world order and have our spiritual bodies will live in that eternal Jerusalem and will reign with Christ forever and ever.<\/p>\n
The Division of the Land of Israel<\/h3>\n
In 48:1-7 and 23-29 we have a description of the division of the land of Israel that will be west of the Jordan. The portion that each of the twelve tribes of Israel will have will be the same as that possessed by the rest of the tribes. Counting from north to south we see that Dan’s portion will be in the extreme northern part. Just south of him will be Asher. Next will be Naphtali’s portion. Just south of that will be Manasseh’s allotment. The next parcel will be given to Ephraim. South of Ephraim will be Reuben’s portion. Next in line will be Judah’s inheritance. Just south of Judah will be the mountain of Jehovah, the dimensions of which will be fifty miles from north to south and fifty miles from east to west. Immediately south of this mountain of Jehovah, or oblation, is the tract that will belong to Benjamin. South of him will be Simeon. Next will come Issachar. Below him will be Zebulun. And south of Zebulun will be God’s portion.<\/p>\n
Since each of these twelve portions will be the same, it would appear that it will be necessary for the Lord to change the shoreline and make it run due north and south, instead of obliquely as it does at the present time.<\/p>\n
The Mountain of Jehovah’s House<\/h3>\n
This oblation, which will be a little south of a central position in the land, is known as the mountain of Jehovah’s house. Isaiah, in the most glowing and marvelous terms, describes this mountain in the following language:<\/p>\n
The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. 2 And it shall come to pass in the latter days, that the mountain of Jehovah’s house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. 3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths; for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of Jehovah from Jerusalem. 4 And he will judge between the nations, and will decide concerning many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks; nations shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.\u201d (Isaiah 2:1-4)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Micah, in 3:9-4:5, describes the same mountain. From his context it is very clear that the subject of discussion is that of the mountain of Jehovah’s house, the temple mountain. In two psalms especially is reference made to this mountain. The question is asked, \u201cWho shall ascend into the mountain of Jehovah, And who shall stand in his holy place? Read carefully on this point Psalm 15 and Psalm 24:1-6.<\/p>\n
Ezekiel gives us the fullest description of this mountain in 48:8-20. The dimensions of this mountain are given in terms of reeds, five hundred of which, as is generally conceded, constitute our English mile. Since the length is twenty-five thousand reeds and the breadth is the same, we, by simple division, understand that this mountain will be fifty miles in length, from north to south, and fifty miles in breadth, from east to west.<\/p>\n
This mountain is divided into three sections, the dividing lines running east and west. The section in the northern portion is fifty miles from east to west but twenty miles deep, from north to south. In the center of this plot will be one square mile, where the temple of God, the house of prayer for all nations, will be located. The priests will occupy this northern section. The middle part is of the same dimensions: fifty by twenty miles. This will be allotted to the Levites, who will assist the priests in their daily ministrations at this house of prayer for all the nations.<\/p>\n
The southern section will be fifty miles in breadth, from east to west, and ten miles in depth, from north to south. In the central part of this southern division the city of Jerusalem with its suburbs will be located.<\/p>\n
The Millennial Jerusalem<\/h3>\n
From the prediction we see that the city of Jerusalem proper will be nine miles by nine miles. Thus the total area will be eighty-one square miles, which will be covered by the city. There will be a suburb on all four sides, one-half mile in width. Thus the suburbs on the north and south sides, being a mile in depth, will, with the depth of the city, which is nine miles, make ten miles from north to south. The same is true with reference to its east and west lines. Thus the city of Jerusalem with its suburbs will cover one hundred square miles.<\/p>\n
In 48:30-35 we see that there will be three gates on each side of the city. These will be there so that the people may enter that sacred, holy metropolis.<\/p>\n
The name of the city will be called, according to Ezekiel’s prediction, Jehovah-shammah<\/em>, which means \u201cJehovah is there.\u201d This Jehovah is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ who will be there in person and reign over the earth.<\/p>\n
When a person reads of the millennial Jerusalem covering one hundred square miles and thinks of its twelve gates, he immediately thinks of the Jerusalem of which we read in Revelation, chapters 21 and 22. But these are two different cities. The one of which Ezekiel speaks is the city of Jerusalem which will be located in the land of Israel \u2014 on this earth. The Jerusalem of which John speaks is an enormous city. It will be fifteen hundred miles in length, breadth, and height. This is the eternal Jerusalem, the home of all the redeemed throughout eternity. The millennial Jerusalem, though it will be the most magnificent city which we can now visualize, will be nothing \u2014 so far as size is concerned \u2014 in comparison with the eternal Jerusalem that will rest upon the enormous earth of the eternal order.<\/p>\n
The study of the land of Israel of the future, together with the world capital, Jerusalem, and our glancing at the eternal earth with its eternal Jerusalem turn our hearts toward the future and make us long for the time to come, when the present chaotic order will have passed away and the kingdom of God, with all its glory and power, will be manifested. In these two cities we shall find our fondest hopes realized and enjoy the blessing of God, not only during the Millennium, but also forever and ever.<\/p>\n
May the Lord add His richest blessings to this series of studies in the Book of Ezekiel, and may the teaching stimulate in us a desire to know more of the prophetic word.<\/p>\n
End of Series<\/h4>\n
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The Oracles Concerning Egypt (Part One) In Ezekiel, chapters 29-32 we have this prophet’s message concerning Egypt. But in the present study we shall note the outstanding events found in chapters 29 and 30, leaving the last two chapters for our next study. In the ancient world Babylon, Assyria, and Egypt were the three outstanding … <\/p>\n