Ezekiel 2:1-3:11 - Is there any doubt that God's people are a rebellious people? God refers to Israel as rebellious in almost every other line of this text. The prophet's task is to speak the words of God, whether they listen or not. Are we the stubborn ones or the ones who speak? In former days God spoke through His prophets, but in these last days He has spoken through His Son. As recipients of God's Word, Jesus, you and I are called not only to listen to that word, but also to speak it. We are God's prophets to each other and the people God places around us. Speech is a daunting task, especially when it concerns the Word of God, but with Ezekiel God stands us up and opens our ears and our mouths.
Romans 1:18-32 - Notice what Paul sees as the cause of a depraved life: worshiping creatures rather than the creator. This is no small thing. When we allow ourselves to exchange one huge truth for one huge lie, then the smaller lies are easier to accept. In a practical way there are all kinds of reasons people reject the truth about God, but the inviting alternative is always to worship lesser things: gods, materials, self. This is why in dealing with our own depravity and with those outside the church, the focus must first and foremost be on Jesus. Only then can we deal with the seriousness of any particular sin in an honest and merciful way.
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