2023-08-24 11:35:41 · 53

178 Thrive Deeper: Ezekiel 12 -20

Episode Notes

Ezekiel 12-20 Chapter 12: Ezekiel symbolizes the people's exile by moving his belongings at night. The exiles doubt the prophecies, but God confirms their fulfillment. Chapter 13: False prophets are rebuked for spreading deceitful messages. God will punish false prophets who give false hope. Chapter 14: Elders come to Ezekiel for guidance, but their hearts are still attached to idols. God's judgment will be severe, even sparing only a remnant. Chapter 15: Jerusalem is compared to a useless vine, only fit for burning. God's judgment is like fire consuming the unfruitful branches. Chapter 16: Jerusalem's history is depicted as an abandoned baby who grows into a beautiful woman. Jerusalem's unfaithfulness to God is likened to prostitution and idolatry. God will punish Jerusalem for her sins, but will also restore her in the end. Chapter 17: A parable of eagles and a vine is used to describe the political alliances of Jerusalem. Despite making alliances, Jerusalem will face consequences for her rebellion against Babylon. God will plant a new, humble cedar tree representing a future restored Israel. Chapter 18: The concept of personal responsibility for sin is emphasized. Each individual is accountable for their actions, and righteousness can change one's fate. The proverb about sour grapes is corrected; each person bears their own guilt. Chapter 19: A lamentation for Israel's princes is presented in the form of a poem. Israel's leaders are compared to young lions, caught in traps by foreign powers. The leaders' downfall is attributed to their unfaithfulness and reliance on alliances. Chapter 20: Elders inquire of Ezekiel about seeking God. They are reminded of their ancestors' idolatry in Egypt. God's patience and desire for Israel's obedience are highlighted throughout history. Despite rebelliousness, God will ultimately restore Israel for the sake of His name.

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Meet The Presenters

Dr Matt Jacoby

Matt is the teaching pastor at his church in Victoria, Australia, lecturer at the Melbourne School of Theology, an author, a songwriter and, a musician leading the Psalms project band Sons of Korah.

Matt has a doctorate in philosophy and theology from the University of Melbourne, and is the author of the daily Bible reading guide Thrive launched in 2005. Matt's most recent work as an author is his book Deeper Places (Baker Books USA 2013) with an expanded edition released in 2019. In Deeper Places, Matt shares a rich portrait of authentic spirituality. A gifted teacher and Bible scholar, Matthew is invited to speak at conferences and churches where he brings a fresh but foundational perspective to Scripture.

“I do a lot of teaching these days in my various roles but I always see myself more as a learner. I love learning. I enjoy academic learning and because of that I am a perpetual student of many disciplines. But most of all I love learning to live life the way God made me to live it.” MJ

DJ Paine

DJ is a podcaster, photographer and has had a number of years experience as a Christian Radio Breakfast announcer. He would consider himself a professional Christian music geek & amateur Bible nerd. DJ was raised on the Gold Coast and studied at Word Of Life Bible College in Sydney.

Devoted husband of Benita Paine and proud of their three boys: the #BrothersPaine

“If you have ever wondered if God has a place for you in His plan... or if you have ever felt you are just a round peg trying to fit into a square hole... well I want to encourage you: if God can use a goof like me then we are all in good hands! I love the scriptures and if I can leave any legacy behind it is simply to say: read the Bible, the Bible is God’s light by which we can really see the universe.” DJ

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