A Question in Need of an Answer

Intro: To this point, the book of Ezekiel has been nothing but doom and gloom. Famine and fire, sword and pestilence have been the instruments in the hand of God as He judges those who should have been blessed.

Yet, in chapter 18, which is close to the mid-point of the book, the Lord pulls the vail back on His deep seated anger with His people’s sin and asks them a two part question with a simple answer. v. 23

Question of Accountability (v. 2)

A sign of sinful human nature is to seek for ways to escape accountability.

EX: Will the Circle Be Unbroken

Thus, in verse 2 Ezekiel’s generation is seeking to escape their part in God’s judgment.

Yet, God answers their question in v. 4

Question of Purpose (v. 23a)

The wording of this phrase is difficult to translate into English.

The intent of the question is not only do you believe God is joyful over the death of the wicked, but does he get joy out of actively pursuing the wicked for judgment?

EX: Joy in the Process as well as the Product.

Question of Decision (v. 23b)

Notice the shift in the subject from God to the wicked person.

Not only does God not desire for the wicked to die, but He has provided a way for the wicked to live.

The Hebrew word for return here is the verb suv. It means to change one’s course.

EX: My sister-n-law’s dog.

There's a great day coming, A great day coming, There's a great day coming by and by, When the saints and the sinners shall be parted right and left, Are you ready for that day to come?

Are you ready? Are you ready? Are you ready for the judgment day? Are you ready? Are you ready? for the judgment day?