Today you should read: Ezekiel 28
Ezekiel 28 opens up with a warning to the king of Tyre. However, notice that in verses 1–10, specifically verse 1, that he refers to the “ruler” or “leader.” The Hebrew word here is na-gid. The na-gid of Tyer is guilty of the root sin from which all other sin flows—“your heart is lifted up and you have said, ‘I am a god, I sit in the seat of gods in the heart of the seas.’”
Notice, however, that in verse 11 we see a shift. Ezekiel received a new word of the Lord, except this time it is to the melek (Hebrew, king) of Tyre. Wait a second, weren’t we just talking to the king of Tyre? We might say that in verses 1–10 God was issuing a warning to the king of Tyre, whereas in verse 11, we read a lament to the real king of Tyre, Satan.
Tyre had an earthly ruler, but her true king was Satan. The major indication that this switch happened is that the description of the melek (king) can’t refer to any earthly being: “perfect, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty, in the garden, a cherub, etc.” Tyre’s evil equated to the same evil found in Satan (1–10) and she would also suffer the fate of Satan (16–19).
The next focus for Ezekiel 28 is the judgment against Sidon, but ultimately how God would fulfill his promises to Israel. We can read verses 25–26 and realize this has not been literally fulfilled, so it’s pointing to a day in the future.
So, what can we learn? I think the warning to the king of Tyre should give pause to any person in a position of power. If you have any authority or leadership capacity, be warned. Your leadership will either reflect Jesus, or Satan—there is no in-between.
Second, Ezekiel 28 gives us a clear view of our enemy. His perfection and beauty, though marred by sin, create a powerful lure for mankind. Through Christ we can armor up (Ephesians 6) and we can stand-firm in the battle. However, Satan is clever, more clever than any of us. I’ve heard a lot of foolishness among believers who challenge the power and authority of Satan. In Christ, we should not fear his power, but we should not take it lightly either. The spiritual forces against us are legion. However, God is faithful for those who walk with Him.
Lastly, 25–26 point to God’s faithfulness. God will accomplish His purposes. He cannot be stopped. The New Testament affirms the hope that all believers have through Christ (1 John 5:13). Rest in that hope. No matter how bad things are now, God will set everything right. He will punish the wicked and restore the righteous.
By: Tyler Short — Connections Ministry Associate
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