Today you should read: Ezekiel 15
Chapter 15 is a word from the Lord (through Ezekiel) of prophecy against the people of Israel. They have continued to disobey God and follow false gods – even though God repeatedly warned them. They refused to repent and change.
Just a note – this is prior to the cross. People obtained righteousness through obedience to God and confession of their sin (looking forward to the ultimate forgiveness to come on the cross). God was still gracious – but the punishment was clear to come to those who disobey. We live in the time since the cross. As Christ followers, our sins are all forgiven by the blood of Jesus.
God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us… 2 Corinthians 5:21a
Because of Israel’s repeated disobedience, God has turned His blessing from them and has become their judge.
I will set my face against them… (v.7)
What can we learn from this about our disobedience?
God is serious about sin.
We joke about it – make excuses for it – act like it doesn’t matter – but God is serious about sin. He was so serious about it – that the cross had to happen. Sin is no laughing or light matter – any sin is a big deal to God.
The discipline of God (to bring about correction in His people) is swift and powerful.
As God’s people living past the cross, we are forgiven of all of our sin. God is never vindictive or punitive toward us. However, sin has consequence – both natural and from God. God will act in our lives as a disciplinarian to get our attention about our undealt with sin.
Our best response is repentance.
When we are made aware of our sin – no matter how small in our eyes – our best response is to repent. To confess it God and take immediate action steps to remove it and avoid it. Accountability is a must.
God is kind, patient, and willing to forgive and restore.
God is so gracious to us – giving us what we absolutely do not deserve and so merciful – not giving us what we truly deserve. He is always kind and eternally patient. He always stands ready to forgive and restore.
By: Tim Parsons — Lead Pastor
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