Ezekiel 1 of 3

Luke 15

The Lost Sheep (The Sinner Who Wanders in Ignorance - distraction and foolishness)

Lost Coin (The Sinner Lost in Neglect and Darkness - lost through carelessness or circumstance )

and Lost Son (The Sinner Lost by Willful Rebellion)

Ezekiel 11:16 Luke 15:20 - Both God and the father initiate the reunion.

Ezekiel 11:19 Luke 15:14-17 - The misery of rebellion leads to the mercy of restoration.

Ezekiel 37:27 Luke 15:22–24 - What was lost is found; what was dead is alive again

The Deepest Similarity: A God Who Moves First

Both reveal that God’s movement is motivated by love, not obligation.

In Ezekiel, God leaves His temple to dwell with His broken people in exile.

In the Gospels, the Father runs toward His son before he can finish his apology.

In both, the holy and the compassionate are not in conflict — they are one.

Holiness demands separation from sin, >>> How does this affect us with others?

but love demands movement toward the sinner. >>> How does this affect us with others?

And that’s the gospel:

Paraphrasing this… “While we were still far off, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

Psalms 103 - Intro

Class 1: God on the Move – The Glory That Follows His People

Text: Ezekiel 1–11 Theme: God’s presence cannot be confined. Even in judgment, He moves with His people — revealing His sovereignty, His glory, and His desire to restore.

Introduction: A God Who Still Moves

Context of the Book

Ezekiel’s setting: Around 593 B.C., among the first exiles taken to Babylon (597 B.C.) with King Jehoiachin.

Background: Jerusalem is under siege; the temple — the symbol of God’s presence — is soon to fall.

Prophetic timeline:

Isaiah (a century earlier): Warned Judah — “God is holy.”

Jeremiah: Stayed in Jerusalem — “God is heartbroken but faithful.”

Ezekiel: Speaks to exiles — “God is still here — still moving.”

Purpose of the book: To prove that God’s glory is not trapped in the temple. He reigns everywhere.

Reading: Ezekiel 1:1-3

“The heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God.”

Key Thought: Even in exile, the heavens are open. God has not left His people — He has come to meet them there.

I. The Vision of God’s Glory (Ezekiel 1–3)

Context

Ezekiel sees a storm wind, fire, four living creatures, and wheels within wheels — each full of eyes.

Above them is a sapphire throne and on it, “the likeness of a man” shining like metal and fire.

Reading: Ezekiel 1:15-21; 26-28

Meaning

The four faces (man, lion, ox, eagle) show God’s complete power and dominion.

The wheels and eyes show omniscience and omnipresence — His throne moves wherever He wills.

The radiant figure shows God’s glory revealed in human likeness, prefiguring Christ Himself.

Lesson

God’s presence is not limited to geography or buildings.

His glory travels with His people — even in punishment, He is near.

God CONTINUES to want to be with his people!

New Testament Connection

Acts 7:48-49 – “The Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands.”

John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”

Discussion Prompt

Why might God choose to reveal His glory in Babylon instead of Jerusalem?

How does that truth comfort believers when they feel far from home or from God?

Takeaway

God’s presence moves with His people — even in their exile.

II. The Call and Commission (Ezekiel 2–3)

Context

After the vision, God calls Ezekiel to be His prophet.

God calls him “Son of Man” (used 90+ times) — humbling him before divine glory. “Human Being”

In Ezekiel, it shows man’s weakness before divine glory.

In Christ, it shows divine glory clothed in human weakness.

He commands him to eat a scroll filled with lamentation and woe.

The scroll tastes sweet as honey, even though its message is bitter.

Ezekiel is appointed a watchman — accountable to warn the people faithfully.

Reading: Ezekiel 2:1-8; 3:1-3; 10-11; 17-19

Meaning

Eating the scroll = internalizing God’s Word before speaking it.

The sweetness of truth contrasts with the bitterness of judgment.

God’s messenger must be transformed before he can transform others.

The “watchman” image teaches personal accountability for proclaiming truth.

Lesson

God’s servants must first be filled with His Word before they can speak it.

Faithfulness matters more than public acceptance.

New Testament Connection

Luke 4:4 – “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.”

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Scripture equips us for every good work.

Discussion Prompt

What does it mean today to “eat the scroll”?

How can we remain faithful when truth is resisted?

Takeaway

We cannot carry God’s message until His Word lives in us.

III. The Departure of God’s Glory (Ezekiel 8–11)

Context

Ezekiel is carried in a vision back to Jerusalem.

Inside the temple, he sees the elders of Israel worshiping idols in secret.

God’s glory begins to depart in stages:

From the inner court (Ezek 9:3).

To the threshold (Ezek 10:4).

Finally, above the Mount of Olives, eastward (Ezek 11:22-23).

This is the moment the presence of God leaves the temple — the greatest tragedy in Israel’s history.

Reading: Ezekiel 8:6-12; 10:18-19; 11:22-23

Meaning

God’s holiness cannot dwell among corruption.

Yet even as His glory leaves, it moves eastward — toward Babylon, where the exiles are.

The departing glory becomes a message of hope: God is not abandoning them but meeting them in exile.

Lesson

Sin drives out His presence, but not His compassion.

Even judgment carries mercy — His glory departs from corruption, not from His covenant.

New Testament Connection

Matthew 23:37-39 – Jesus weeps over Jerusalem as God’s glory departs again.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17 – The church is now God’s temple.

Hebrews 13:12-14 – Jesus suffers “outside the city” where God’s glory had gone.

Discussion Prompt

What “idols” today might cause God’s presence to withdraw from hearts or churches?

How can we keep His glory central?

Is God’s glory described as coming back to dwell in the second temple it like it once was in the first one? Ezra 3-6; Neh. 12

Takeaway

God’s glory departs from corruption — but always moves toward redemption.

IV. The Strange and the Sacred

Context

Ezekiel performs startling symbolic acts to make God’s Word visible.

He builds a miniature siege, lies on his side, shaves his head, and eats defiled bread.

These are not madness but mercy — living parables to awaken hardened hearts.

Examples (for overview)

Ezek 4:1-3 – Siege model: the coming destruction of Jerusalem.

Ezek 4:4-8 – Lying on his side: bearing the guilt of Israel and Judah.

Ezek 5:1-4 – Shaving hair: death, exile, and a preserved remnant.

Ezek 4:9-17 – Defiled bread: famine and impurity of the siege.

Meaning

These actions were visual sermons for a people who would not listen.

God’s mercy is seen in His persistence — He speaks in whatever way will reach us.

New Testament Connection

Jesus also used vivid illustrations and parables to awaken dull hearts (Matt 13).

1 Corinthians 1:21 – “It pleased God through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe.”

Discussion Prompt

Have you ever experienced a “wake-up call” from God — something that jolted you spiritually?

Why does God sometimes use drastic measures to reach us?

Takeaway

When truth no longer moves us, God may startle us to save us.

V. The God Who Moves Toward Us

Reading: Ezekiel 11:16-20

“Though I have scattered them among the nations, yet will I be to them a little sanctuary in the countries where they have gone.”

Meaning

God promises to be their sanctuary in exile — His presence will dwell with them wherever they are.

He will give them a new heart and a new spirit — a promise fulfilled through Christ and the Spirit (Ezek 36:26-27; Acts 2).

Lesson

The glory that left the temple will return — not to a building, but to the hearts of believers.

What began as judgment ends as renewal.

Application

God’s presence is not absent in hardship — it is reshaping us.

His Spirit dwells in us; His throne still moves; His mercy still breathes.

Closing Reflection

Even when the temple falls, His throne rolls on. The same glory that left Jerusalem now lives within the hearts of His people. Wherever life takes you — home, work, or hardship — His glory still moves, and it moves with you.

End of Class 1 (Next class will continue into Ezekiel 12–32: “The God Who Judges Justly.”)

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Introducing the Book of Ezekiel

If Isaiah shows us the holiness of God, and Jeremiah reveals the heart of God, then Ezekiel reveals the glory of God— a glory that cannot be contained, cannot be confined, and will not abandon His people even in their rebellion.

When Ezekiel opens his eyes by the River Chebar in Babylon, everything that once symbolized hope for Israel is gone. Jerusalem is under siege. The temple—the very place of God’s presence—lies in ruin. The people are far from home, broken and humiliated.

And then, as Ezekiel 1:1–3 says, “the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God.” In the land of exile, God reveals Himself—not sitting still in Jerusalem, but riding upon the storm, His throne moving among the captives.

It is one of the most powerful moments in Scripture: God’s glory leaves the temple (Ezekiel 10:18–19), but it does not leave His people (Ezekiel 11:16–20). Through Ezekiel, God speaks with thunder and mercy, saying to a scattered people:

“You may have left the land, but I have not left you.”

The Message of Ezekiel

Through Ezekiel, God declares three timeless truths—truths that still speak powerfully to us today.

1. “My presence is not bound by place.”

2. “My holiness cannot live with sin—but My mercy will never stop pursuing you.”

3. “My Spirit can make the dead live again.”

So What Is God Saying to Us Through Ezekiel?

“Even when you have lost everything— I am still God. I am still here. I am still moving toward you.”

Ezekiel’s message is one of both heartbreak and hope. It is the story of a holy God who must judge sin, yet a loving Father who will not give up on His children. It is the story of glory departing because of sin, and glory returning through grace. And ultimately, it points to Jesus Christ, the One in whom God’s glory came to dwell among us once more (John 1:14).

‘I have not forgotten you. My glory still moves, My Spirit still breathes, and My mercy still waits.’

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Psalm 103 – The Father’s Compassion in the Face of Our Frailty

Class 1: “God on the Move – The Glory That Follows His People”

Text: Ezekiel 1–11 Main Theme: God’s presence is not confined to a place. Even in judgment, He moves with His people—revealing His sovereignty, His glory, and His desire to restore.

I. Introduction – Setting the Scene

Historical Background

Date: Around 593 B.C. (six years before Jerusalem’s fall in 586 B.C.).

Ezekiel: A priest turned prophet, living among the first wave of exiles taken to Babylon in 597 B.C. with King Jehoiachin.

Setting: By the River Chebar, hundreds of miles from the destroyed temple.

Context with Other Prophets: Together, they form a threefold testimony:

Isaiah — God is holy.

Isaiah (a century earlier): warned Judah of Babylon’s rise and called them to holiness.

Jeremiah — God is heartbroken but faithful.

Jeremiah: remained in Jerusalem, pleading for repentance as the destruction approached.

Ezekiel — God is sovereign, present, and still moving, even among the ruins.

Ezekiel: speaks to those already in exile, helping them see that God is still near.

Key Purpose:

To correct the false belief that God’s presence was tied to Jerusalem.

To show that God’s throne is mobile, sovereign, and still among His people.

Opening Reading:

Ezekiel 1:1–3 – “The heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God.”

Key Thought:

Even in a foreign land, heaven is still open.

God had not abandoned His people—He was already there with them.

II. The Vision of God’s Glory (Ezekiel 1–3)

Context Summary

Ezekiel’s first vision reveals God’s glory riding upon living creatures and wheels within wheels, full of eyes.

The throne above them displays “the likeness of a man” glowing with fire and brilliance.

This vision declares that God’s presence is not bound to a place—He reigns over all creation.

Reading:

Ezekiel 1:15–21; 26–28

Key Points

The four living creatures represent strength and completeness (man, lion, ox, eagle).

The wheels within wheels covered with eyes, symbolize God’s unceasing motion and omniscience.

The sapphire throne above them emphasizes His authority over heaven and earth.

God’s throne moves—He is not stationary or absent in exile.

Lesson

To the exiles, this vision meant God had not stayed behind in Jerusalem.

Even in captivity, His sovereignty and glory remained fully intact.

NT Connections

Acts 7:48–49 – “The Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands.”

John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”

Matthew 28:20 – “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Discussion

Why would God reveal His glory to Ezekiel in Babylon rather than in the temple?

How does this reshape our view of where God’s presence dwells today?

Takeaway

God’s presence is not lost in exile—He travels with His people.

III. The Call and Commission of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 2–3)

Context Summary

After the vision, God calls Ezekiel to serve as His prophet.

God repeatedly calls him “Son of Man,” a term highlighting his humanity and dependence on God.

Ezekiel is commanded to “eat the scroll”—to absorb and internalize God’s Word before proclaiming it.

The message is both sweet (truth) and bitter (judgment).

He is appointed a watchman—responsible to warn the people faithfully.

Reading:

Ezekiel 2:1–8; 3:1–3; 10–11; 17–19

Key Points

The scroll symbolizes God’s Word entering the prophet’s life.

The sweetness of truth contrasts with the bitterness of judgment.

Ezekiel must speak God’s message regardless of how people respond.

The role of the “watchman” carries accountability—if he fails to warn, he bears guilt.

Lesson

God’s servants must first be filled with His Word before speaking for Him.

Faithfulness in proclaiming truth is more important than public acceptance.

NT Connections

Luke 4:4 – “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.”

2 Timothy 3:16–17 – Scripture equips the man of God for every good work.

Matthew 28:19–20 – Jesus sends His followers to teach all nations.

Discussion

What does it mean for Christians today to “eat the scroll”?

Why does God call us to faithfulness even when the world resists truth?

Takeaway

We cannot carry God’s message until His Word lives in us.

IV. The Departure of God’s Glory (Ezekiel 8–11)

Context Summary

Ezekiel is carried by the Spirit in a vision back to Jerusalem.

Inside the temple, he sees idolatry and corruption among priests and leaders.

God’s glory begins to depart:

From the inner court (Ezekiel 9:3).

To the threshold of the temple (Ezekiel 10:4).

Finally, over the Mount of Olives, eastward (Ezekiel 11:22–25).

This signifies judgment—but also mercy, for God’s presence moves toward the exiles.

Reading:

Ezekiel 8:6–12; 10:18–19; 11:22–23

Key Points

God exposes the hidden sins of His people.

His holiness cannot remain where sin is worshiped.

Though His glory departs the temple, it does not vanish—it moves toward restoration.

Lesson

God’s glory will not stay where idolatry reigns.

Yet even in departure, God’s direction is always toward redemption, not abandonment.

NT Connections

Matthew 23:37–39 – Jesus laments over Jerusalem as God’s glory once again departs.

1 Corinthians 3:16–17 – The church is now the temple of God.

Hebrews 13:12–14 – Jesus suffers “outside the city,” just as God’s glory once left it.

Discussion

What modern “idols” can cause God’s presence to withdraw from our hearts or churches?

How can we prepare a heart and church where God’s glory remains central?

Takeaway

God’s glory departs from corruption—but it always moves toward redemption.

V. The Strange and the Sacred

Context Summary

Ezekiel’s ministry includes unusual symbolic acts—lying on his side, shaving his head, building a model city, and performing object lessons.

These dramatic signs are God’s mercy in motion—He uses vivid illustrations to wake a spiritually dull people.

When words no longer stir hearts, God uses pictures, events, and experiences to reach them.

Reading:

Ezekiel 3:15; 22–27

Key Points

Ezekiel becomes a living message—his actions embody God’s Word.

The strangeness of his behavior is meant to provoke thought, not confusion.

God uses extraordinary means when His people grow numb to ordinary truth.

Lesson

When hearts grow cold, God may use unexpected ways to call His people back to Him.

These strange signs reflect His determination to reach even the unresponsive.

NT Connections

Jesus’ parables were designed to awaken dull hearts.

1 Corinthians 1:21 – “It pleased God through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe.”

Discussion

Have you ever experienced a “wake-up call” from God—something that jolted your faith back to life?

Why might God use uncomfortable or unusual moments to remind us of His presence?

Takeaway

When truth no longer moves us, God may startle us to save us.

VI. Conclusion – The God Who Moves Toward Us

Context Summary

Though God’s glory leaves Jerusalem, He promises it will not remain gone forever.

In exile, He becomes “a little sanctuary” to His people and promises a new heart and Spirit.

What began as judgment becomes the foundation of renewal and restoration.

Reading:

Ezekiel 11:16–20 – “Though I have scattered them… yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary.”

Key Points

God’s presence is never absent—it transforms location and form.

The departing glory foreshadows the coming indwelling Spirit of the New Covenant.

The same God who left the temple will one day dwell in His people through Christ.

Modern Application

God’s presence isn’t limited to certain spaces or moments.

He walks with His people through exile, through brokenness, and through renewal.

His throne still moves, His Word still speaks, His Spirit still dwells.

Inspiration to Close

Even when the temple falls, His throne rolls on.

The same glory that left Jerusalem has come to live within the hearts of believers.

Wherever this week takes you—home, work, or hardship—remember:

God’s glory is not behind you.

It moves with you.

lass.