Ezekiel

The Book of Ezekiel was believed to be written by the Prophet Ezekiel around 580 B.C. 

The name “Ezekiel” means “God’s strength.”  Ezekiel was born in Judah to a priest’s family.  It appeared to be a reminder to the declining Israel kingdom, where their strength was from. 

Ezekiel was born at a time during King Josiah’s reforms.  As the son of a priest, he probably witnessed how the country turned away from God.  He also witnessed the rise and fall of the Assyrian Empire.  In 569 B.C., when Judah was captured by Babylon, Ezekiel was among the captives.  The captivity experience gave Ezekiel understanding about the reign of God. 

In his fifth year of captivity, God called Ezekiel to be a prophet, and to deliver judgement to the declining Judah and Israel.  On one hand, Judah could not escape the destiny of falling. On the other hand, God’s presence was not longer with the Israelites, because of their prolonged idolatry.

Judgement, however, was not the only thing God showed His people. Through Ezekiel, God assured them that His judgement would soon come to their enemies.  The enemies would equally face declining and falling in power.  At the end, only God is the ultimate King of the history.  His reign would stand the test of time and human brokenness. 

Ezekiel encouraged the Israelite to renew their covenant with the Lord.  When God’s people returned to God, He announced that one day the Temple of God would be rebuilt.