Ezekiel's call to prophetic ministry is a pivotal moment in the Old Testament, marking the beginning of his role as a prophet to the exiled Israelites in Babylon. This event is detailed in the first three chapters of the Book of Ezekiel, where the prophet receives a divine vision and commission from God.

Background

Ezekiel, the son of Buzi, was a priest and one of the Jewish exiles taken to Babylon during the early deportations by King Nebuchadnezzar. His prophetic ministry began around 593 BC, during the fifth year of King Jehoiachin's exile. The historical context of Ezekiel's call is crucial, as it occurred during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty for the people of Judah, who were grappling with the loss of their homeland and the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

The Vision

Ezekiel's call begins with a remarkable vision of God's glory. In Ezekiel 1, the prophet describes seeing "a great cloud with flashing lightning and surrounded by brilliant light" (Ezekiel 1:4). Within this vision, he observes four living creatures, each with four faces and four wings, and wheels that move in unison with the creatures. Above them is a throne, and on the throne is "a figure like that of a man" (Ezekiel 1:26). This vision of divine majesty underscores the holiness and sovereignty of God, setting the stage for Ezekiel's mission.

The Commission

In Ezekiel 2, God speaks directly to Ezekiel, addressing him as "son of man" and commissioning him to be a prophet to the rebellious house of Israel. God warns Ezekiel of the obstinacy and rebellious nature of the people, yet commands him to speak His words regardless of their response: "Whether they listen or refuse to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them" (Ezekiel 2:5).

God instructs Ezekiel not to fear the people or their words, emphasizing the importance of his obedience to the divine mandate. The prophet is given a scroll to eat, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. The scroll is filled with "words of lamentation, mourning, and woe" (Ezekiel 2:10), reflecting the somber nature of the message Ezekiel is to deliver.

Empowerment and Responsibility

In Ezekiel 3, the prophet is further empowered and instructed. God tells Ezekiel that He has made his face as hard as the people's faces and his forehead as hard as their foreheads, equipping him to stand firm against opposition. Ezekiel is appointed as a watchman for the house of Israel, responsible for warning the wicked and the righteous alike. The gravity of this responsibility is underscored by the warning that failure to deliver God's message would result in accountability for the people's blood (Ezekiel 3:17-21).

Significance

Ezekiel's call is significant for several reasons. It highlights the themes of divine sovereignty, judgment, and restoration that permeate the Book of Ezekiel. The prophet's role as a watchman underscores the importance of faithfulness to God's word, regardless of the audience's receptivity. Ezekiel's call also serves as a reminder of God's continued presence and communication with His people, even in the midst of exile and judgment.