Ezekiel 33 – We’ve Got The Watch

The destruction of Jerusalem & the Temple mark the end of Ezekiel’s first watch.

Ezekiel 33
Pastor Gene Pensiero
Series: Cry Me A River (Ezekiel)

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In this profound Bible study from our ongoing Ezekiel series, titled “Ezekiel 33 – We’ve Got The Watch,” we explore the vital role of the watchman in both ancient Israel and in the Christian life today. Join us as we delve into the Old Testament book of Ezekiel to uncover timeless truths relevant to Bible prophecy and the end times. This sermon will resonate with anyone seeking deeper Bible insights, Christian teachings, and Calvary Chapel perspectives on God’s word.

We begin by drawing parallels between the solemn “End of Watch” tradition in law enforcement and Ezekiel’s own “End of Watch-man” experience. Discover how God’s prophet, Ezekiel, delivered challenging prophecies to the exiled Jews in Babylon, warning them of Jerusalem’s impending fall, a message they initially rejected. Using the clear, conversational New Living Translation, we break down Ezekiel 33:1-6, examining the watchman’s responsibility to warn the people and the consequences of their disobedience.

Learn why God, not man, chose Ezekiel as a watchman, a crucial lesson for believers today about divine calling versus human ambition. We emphasize that God’s exhortation to Ezekiel was ultimately for the benefit of the Jews, highlighting the personal responsibility of individuals to heed divine warnings. We clarify that the physical consequences described in Ezekiel 33, such as captivity and death, are distinct from the concept of eternal life.

As God commissions Ezekiel to a second watch, we explore what it means to be given “more to do” in service to the Lord, encouraging every Christian to seek God’s will for their lives. We then unpack Ezekiel 33:8-9, distinguishing between physical death and eternal salvation, reinforcing that repentance leads to life. We also address the false notion that God condemns individuals for another’s disobedience.

Delving into Ezekiel 33:10-11, we confront the people’s self-pity and blame, revealing God’s true desire for sinners to turn from their wicked ways and live. This section offers powerful insight into God’s character and His long-suffering love, echoing 2 Peter 3:9. We engage in a discussion about the meaning of “all” coming to repentance, advocating for the “whosoever will believe” perspective.

The video then examines Ezekiel 33:12-16, exposing the futility of relying on past righteousness or superficial worship. We use a compelling analogy of modern legal frameworks to illustrate why God does not overlook sin based on general obedience. These verses paint a picture of restoration and blessing in the land for those who genuinely repent and obey God’s life-giving laws.

We discuss the people’s accusation that “The Lord isn’t doing what’s right” (Ezekiel 33:17-20), asserting that it is they who are failing to act righteously. The video powerfully recounts the moment a survivor confirms “The city has fallen” (Ezekiel 33:21-22), marking a pivotal shift and the end of Ezekiel’s period of muteness.

Further, we analyze the survivors’ misguided claim to the land based on Abraham’s legacy (Ezekiel 33:24-26), contrasted with God’s stern judgment against their idolatry, murder, and adultery. This leads into the dire consequences prophesied in Ezekiel 33:27-29, where the land’s complete destruction signifies the beginning of “The Time of the Gentiles,” a period that continues to this day until Christ’s return.

Finally, we explore the people’s superficial interest in Ezekiel’s messages (Ezekiel 33:30-33), highlighting the danger of hearing God’s word without acting on it. The video concludes with a tender reflection on Ezekiel’s faithfulness and a powerful exhortation for Church Age believers: Are we watchmen today? Learn how we fulfill this role by heeding “one another” verses, exercising spiritual gifts, and eagerly watching for the Lord’s return. This sermon provides ten New Testament encouragements for our watch, emphasizing purification and steadfast hope in Christ’s imminent appearing. Get ready to strengthen your faith and deepen your understanding of God’s sovereign plan!

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Prophecy Update #824 – If You Say Sow

Jeremiah’s poetic picture of thriving livestock is a Millennial scene but we can see the stage being set for its fulfillment now.

Pastor Gene Pensiero

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other prophecy updates at: https://calvaryhanford.com/prophecy

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In Prophecy Update #824, titled “If You Say Sow,” we delve into critical Bible prophecies unfolding before our eyes. Join us in this Bible study as we connect current global trends with end-times predictions from the Bible. This video is a must-watch for anyone interested in Christianity, Bible prophecy, and Calvary Chapel teachings on the Last Days.

Discover how advancements in biometrics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are setting the stage for future prophecy fulfillment, including the biblical descriptions of a global system of commerce and a “mark.” While dramatic events unfold, we also explore less obvious, yet equally significant, prophecies.

We examine Jeremiah 31:27, where the LORD speaks of “sowing the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the seed of man and with the seed of beast.” This Bible verse signifies a time of population growth, blessing, and restoration for Israel, a Millennial scene that we see being prepared even now.

A recent article highlights Israel’s announcement of 22 new communities in Judea and Samaria, a move that directly aligns with this prophecy of “sowing Judea and Israel with the seed of men.” Hear powerful statements from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasizing Israel’s sovereignty and settlement efforts.

In response to a global surge in anti-Semitism, there’s a clear message for Jews worldwide to return to the land of Israel. Following the events of October 7, 2023, over 31,000 new immigrants moved to Israel, fulfilling Jeremiah’s ancient prediction of the Jewish return to their Promised Land in the Last Days. We clarify that this prophecy specifically refers to ethnic descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, not a spiritualized interpretation for the Church.

Finally, we turn our attention to Revelation 3:10, a foundational scripture for understanding the Church in the Last Days. Jesus promises to “keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world.” We explain why “the hour of trial,” or the Tribulation, is a global event that believers will not endure. This discussion covers the Rapture, the resurrection of the dead in Christ, and the transformation of believers into glorified bodies before this critical period.

Are you ready for the Rapture? This video will challenge you to get ready, stay ready, and keep looking up for the imminent return of Jesus Christ. Don’t miss these crucial prophecy updates that will help you understand the times we live in and strengthen your faith. Tune in for deep Bible insights and sermon content relevant to today’s world.

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