Father's House Church

Starting the Bookmof Ezekiel on Thursday…..
Introduction from AMPC
Ezekiel grew up in the environs of the temple in Jerusalem, since he was born in a priestly family. Born in 623 B.C., he witnessed the changing fortunes of his people and was included in the exile to Babylon in 597 B.C. Called to the prophetic ministry in 593 B.C. through a spectacular divine revelation (chapters 1–3), he was made conscious of God’s presence and message in the midst of the idolatrous surroundings of Babylon.
During the first part of his ministry, Ezekiel proclaimed essentially the same message given by Jeremiah—Jerusalem is doomed to destruction. The sinfulness and idolatry prevailing in Jerusalem will result in God’s abandoning the temple, as well as Jerusalem—with judgment to follow. Babylonian captivity is certain. This is the theme of chapters 1–24.
After the news reached Babylon that Jerusalem actually had been destroyed in 586 B.C., Ezekiel proclaimed a new message of hope and restoration. God as the great Shepherd will regather the Israelites from the ends of the earth and reestablish them in their own land. The nations who challenge Israel’s return will be defeated and judged.

Introduction from ESV Strongs
Ezekiel, a prophet and priest, was exiled to Babylon in 597 B.C. His ministry extended over at least twenty-three years. The book opens with his first dramatic vision of the “likeness” of the Lord himself. Ezekiel was keenly aware of God’s presence and power in human affairs. He addressed both the exiles and the people left in Judah with messages of warning and judgment, predicting the fall of Jerusalem. After Jerusalem’s fall (in 586), Ezekiel prophesied hope and reassurance for the people of Judah, who had then lost the focus of God’s covenant, the temple in Jerusalem. His vision of the valley of dry bones (ch. 37) is a classic picture of God’s ability to renew his people.