Today many are self-proclaimed prophets enjoying luxurious lifestyles. Indeed, many fake prophets give false messages in the name of the Holy God. The prominent prophets in the Bible were given a depressing call. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel had to prepare themselves for rejection of their message and risk to their lives too. (Isaiah 6:9-12; Jeremiah 1:17-19; Ezekiel 3-7) Ezekiel’s call is to minister to perhaps the most hardened people.
Israel: First they were called as children of Israel. Like their father Jacob, they struggled with flesh and world. Second, the nation was rebellious, at par with Gentile nations. Those who were supposed to be kings and priests were rebels. Third, the rebellion of Israel was against God and His Law, hence they were traitors and rebels. Fourth, they were impudent and stubborn, like insubordinate teenagers. (Ezekiel 2:3-5)
Briers, thorns, and scorpions: God called Ezekiel to be steadfast. He should not be afraid, dismayed, or shattered by the rebellious people. He should not be upset when they reject him and his message. The rejection would be like the sting of briers, thorns, and scorpions. (Ezekiel 2: 6) Briers are considered sharp and give an unpleasant feeling, while thorns are annoying, pricky, and painful. Scorpions’ sting hurts, and pains and is poisonous. The words of people who reject the message of Ezekiel could be depressing.
Realization: However, the Lord promised that the Israelites would realize and know later that a prophet lived among them. (Ezekiel 2:5) Ezekiel may get posthumous recognition. The listeners would reject the message, but later generations may realize the truth, but it would be too late. Yes, Israel had expertise in killing prophets and the following generation building memorials for them. (Luke 11:47)
Children of light: The disciples of Lord Jesus Christ are called to be children of light. (I Thessalonians 5:5) Amid darkness, light provides hope and direction. However, the world could reject them as they love darkness. The believers should be steadfast like Ezekiel and should not be affected by briers, thorns, and scorpions, the words of rejectors of the gospel.
Is my life a prophetic light to the world?