Then in the nations where they have been carried captive, those who escape will remember me. (Ezekiel 6:9)In reading through Ezekiel, one may be struck by the prophet's odd behavior and language. Such things make it easy to get distracted from the message. Remember that Ezekiel did not witness firsthand the siege of Jerusalem or the city's destruction. He was taken to Babylon along with one of the earlier groups of exiles. Whereas Jeremiah preached to those in Jerusalem enduring the Babylonian attack, Ezekiel ministered to exiles already taken from their home. A unique person with a unique role. Add to this that some biblical scholars have questioned his mental health and we have the makings of a colorful character.
Something that might make Ezekiel's message easier to follow is that the book can be roughly divided into two parts. The first half deals with the destruction and overthrow or Jerusalem (judgment), while the second half deals with the future return of Israel (restoration). In this light, despite the confusing language, the message is congruent with that of Isaiah and Jeremiah.
Already in Chapter six, Ezekiel gives a hint of his restoration beyond judgment theme: Those who escape will remember me. Here we have once again an allusion to the promise of Deuteronomy 30:1-10, reiterated so often in subsequent prophetic messages.
I also find it interesting that what historians traditionally refer to as exile, Ezekiel calls escape.
Can you see through God's discipline to his providential care?
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