Introduction and Inaugural Vision

By: Mike Mazzalongo     Posted: Thu. Sep 4th
The first lesson deals with Ezekiel's amazing visions and initial message to the exiles from God.

Sources

1. The Holy Bible (Multiple Translations)

  • New International Version (NIV)
  • English Standard Version (ESV)
  • New King James Version (NKJV)
  • King James Version (KJV) These translations provide the primary text of Ezekiel and biblical cross-references.

2. Biblical Commentaries on Ezekiel

  • Daniel I. Block, The Book of Ezekiel (2 Vols., NICOT Series)
    An in-depth evangelical commentary focusing on the historical, linguistic, and theological aspects of Ezekiel.
  • John B. Taylor, Ezekiel: An Introduction & Commentary (Tyndale Old Testament Commentary)
    A concise commentary providing key insights and practical applications.
  • Christopher J. H. Wright, The Message of Ezekiel (The Bible Speaks Today)
    A pastoral and theological approach emphasizing the prophet's message for today.

3. Biblical Background & Reference Works

  • NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible
    Offers historical, social, and cultural notes relevant to Ezekiel's context.
  • The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament (Edited by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews, and Mark W. Chavalas)
    Provides accessible background and archaeological data on OT passages.
  • Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: Old Testament (Edited by John H. Walton)
    Rich in visual aids and archaeological context to illuminate Ezekiel's world.

4. Bible Dictionaries & Encyclopedias

  • Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary (6 Vols.)
    Comprehensive articles on Ezekiel, Babylonian exile, priestly roles, and more.
  • Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible
    Brief but informative entries on key terms, historical contexts, and personages in Ezekiel.

5. Academic Journals and Articles (Optional)

  • Journal of Biblical Literature (JBL), Biblica, or Vetus Testamentum (VT)
    For specialized studies and recent scholarly discussions on Ezekiel's themes, historical context, and interpretive debates.

6. Online Resources

  • Bible Gateway (for parallel translations and quick references)
  • Blue Letter Bible (for Hebrew word studies and interlinear references)
  • STEP Bible (by Tyndale House)
    Helpful for cross-referencing and lexical studies specific to Ezekiel's Hebrew terms.

These resources collectively undergird the themes of holiness, judgment, and restoration discussed in the Book of Ezekiel, shed light on the prophet's priestly-prophetic role, and reinforce the historical setting of the Babylonian exile. They will also help substantiate Ezekiel's authorship, the dating of his ministry, and his essential messages for both ancient Israel and contemporary faith communities.

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