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Symbolic Oracles of Judgment and the Departure of God's Glory

By: Mike Mazzalongo Posted: Thu. Sep 11th

This lesson will review both Ezekiel's warnings of impending judgment for the unrepentant sin of idolatry and the fulfillment of this prophecy as God removes His miraculous presence from the Temple in Jerusalem.

Sources

1. The Holy Bible (NASB 1995)

Primary text from which direct quotations and expository insights are drawn.

2. Daniel I. Block, The Book of Ezekiel (2 Vols., NICOT)

Comprehensive commentary offering detailed linguistic, historical, and theological analysis of Ezekiel, including chapters 4-11.

3. John B. Taylor, Ezekiel: An Introduction & Commentary (Tyndale Old Testament Commentary)

A concise yet thorough resource providing interpretive guidance and discussion of key passages in Ezekiel.

4. Christopher J. H. Wright, The Message of Ezekiel (The Bible Speaks Today)

Pastoral and theological insights on Ezekiel's themes, particularly judgments (ch. 4-7) and visions of God's glory (ch. 8-11).

5. IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament (Edited by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews, and Mark W. Chavalas)

Cultural and archaeological notes that shed light on the symbolism in Ezekiel's enacted prophecies and temple visions.

6. Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: Old Testament (Edited by John H. Walton)

Helpful for visual aids and contextual details about Israel's idolatry, the Babylonian siege, and ancient near-eastern worship practices.

7. Bible Atlas & Maps

Any reputable Bible atlas (e.g., Holman Bible Atlas) or map set can clarify geographic references relevant to the siege of Jerusalem and the exilic context.

These sources collectively support the themes of Ezekiel's symbolic acts, the gravity of Judah's sin, and the unfolding vision of God's departure from the temple while still offering hope for a future restored relationship.