The book of Ezekiel, found in the Old Testament, is one of the most vivid and remarkable prophetic writings in all of Scripture. Ezekiel, the son of Buzi, was both a priest and prophet who ministered during the Babylonian exile in the sixth century B.C. His calling, visions, and prophetic messages reflect the holiness of God, His judgment upon sin, and His promise of future restoration. The King James Version (KJV) captures the grandeur and solemnity of Ezekiel’s message, emphasizing the glory of the LORD and His dealings with His people.
Ezekiel’s Calling and Vision of God’s Glory
The opening chapter of Ezekiel records one of the most awe-inspiring visions in the Bible. While by the river Chebar among the captives, Ezekiel “saw visions of God” (Ezekiel 1:1). The heavens were opened, and he beheld the likeness of four living creatures, wheels within wheels, and above them the likeness of a throne. Upon the throne was “the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it” (Ezekiel 1:26). Ezekiel described this scene as “the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD” (Ezekiel 1:28).
This vision revealed the majesty, holiness, and sovereignty of God. It reminded Israel that though the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed and the people were in exile, the LORD was not confined to one location. His glory transcended nations, and His purposes would stand. Ezekiel’s prophetic ministry began with this overwhelming encounter with the living God.
Judgment Against Israel and the Nations
Ezekiel was called to proclaim God’s judgment upon a rebellious house. The LORD declared, “Son of man, I send thee to the children of Israel, to a rebellious nation that hath rebelled against me” (Ezekiel 2:3). Over and over, Ezekiel referred to Israel as a people of hard hearts and stiff necks who refused to hear the word of the LORD. Through symbolic actions and parables, Ezekiel declared that Jerusalem would be besieged and destroyed because of idolatry and abominations.
Chapters 4 through 24 describe God’s judgment upon Judah and Jerusalem, culminating in the prophecy of the fall of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. Yet Ezekiel also prophesied against the surrounding nations—Ammon, Moab, Edom, Philistia, Tyre, Egypt, and others—showing that God rules over all peoples, not only Israel.
The Departed Glory and the Promise of Restoration
One of the most striking themes in Ezekiel is the departure of God’s glory from the temple. In Ezekiel 10, the prophet saw the glory of the LORD leave the house of God and stand upon the mountain east of Jerusalem. This symbolized the Lord’s judgment and the loss of His presence among a sinful nation. Yet later, Ezekiel also saw visions of God’s glory returning to a future temple (Ezekiel 43:2–5), signifying restoration and hope.
Despite messages of judgment, Ezekiel proclaimed the promise of a new covenant. God declared, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you” (Ezekiel 36:26). This prophecy pointed to spiritual renewal and the coming work of the Holy Spirit.
The Valley of Dry Bones
Perhaps the most memorable vision is found in Ezekiel 37, the vision of the valley of dry bones. The Spirit of the LORD set Ezekiel in a valley full of bones, “and, lo, they were very dry” (Ezekiel 37:2). At God’s command, Ezekiel prophesied, and the bones came together, flesh came upon them, and breath entered into them, and they lived. The LORD declared, “These bones are the whole house of Israel” (Ezekiel 37:11). This vision symbolized the restoration of Israel from death and exile to life and hope, ultimately pointing to the power of God to bring spiritual life through His Spirit.
Ezekiel’s Vision of the Future Temple
The closing chapters (40–48) describe Ezekiel’s detailed vision of a future temple and the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. The return of the glory of the LORD to this temple (Ezekiel 43:4–5) signifies God’s dwelling once again with His people. The book closes with the name of the city being called “The LORD is there” (Ezekiel 48:35).
Conclusion
Ezekiel stands as a prophet of both judgment and hope. His message reveals the holiness and glory of God, His righteous judgment against sin, and His gracious promise of restoration and renewal. The themes of God’s sovereignty, the necessity of repentance, and the promise of a new heart continue to speak powerfully today. Through the words of Ezekiel, the KJV preserves for us the majesty of God’s glory and the assurance that He is ever faithful to His covenant people.